DOS releases guidance on DV-2020 adjudications after Gomez v. Trump ruling

Date Announced
Sept. 15, 2020
DOS issues guidance in accordance with the September 4, 2020 ruling in Gomez v. Trump that DOS must make good-faith efforts to expeditiously adjudicate DV-2020 diversity visa applications by September 30, 2020. DOS guidance states that "DV-2020 applicants may be processed in embassies and consulates where local health conditions and post resources allow." DOS also announces four prioritization levels for these applicants. [ID #1066]
View Policy Document
Effective Date of Change
Sept. 15, 2020
Subsequent Action
June 30, 2020
The district court in Gomez v. Trump orders the State Department to reserve 9,095 diversity visas for future processing.
District Court Memorandum Opinion and Amended Order: Gomez v. Trump

Status: Final/Actual In Litigation

Type of Action: Agency Directive

Subject Matter: Immigrant Visas: Diversity

Agencies Affected: Bureau of Consular Affairs

Prior Policies

Presidential proclamation suspended the entry of immigrants due to COVID-19.
COVID-19 Presidential Proclamation Suspends Entry of Immigrants
Gomez v. Trump required DOS to make good-faith efforts to expeditiously adjudicate DV-2020 applications by September 30, 2020 notwithstanding the April 22, 2020 presidential proclamation suspending the entry of immigrants due to COVID-19.
District Court Memorandum Opinion and Order: Gomez v. Trump