The application period for the 2012 Diversity Visa program begins from tomorrow October 5, 2010 and ends November 03, 2010.

There are three major changes to the program for 2012:

1. Applicants must register online during the 30 day registration period.

2. Applicants must check the Diversity Visa web site to see if they have been selected. Winners will NOT receive a letter by mail or email.

3. Applicant photos must be uploaded at a resolution of 300 dpi (dots per inch) or better.There is no fee to enter the Diversity Visa lottery. Entries must be submitted electronically at www.dvlottery.state.gov during the registration period that begins noon Eastern Daylight Time (GMT-4), Tuesday, October 5, 2010, and ends noon Eastern Daylight Time (GMT-4), Wednesday, November 3, 2010.

Official notification from the U.S. Department of State will be done electronically between May 1, 2011 and June 30, 2011. Applicants must go online to www.dvlottery.state.gov with their Entry Status Check to learn whether they have been selected. Unlike previous years, lottery winners will not be notified by mail.