Green Card Lottery 2025-2026: Major Updates and Changes
The green card lottery program enters a critical phase in late 2025 with significant developments affecting both current and prospective applicants. DV-2026 selectees are now competing for approximately 52,000 diversity visas before the September 30, 2026 deadline, while DV-2027 registration faces unprecedented delays.
The U.S. State Department has introduced a historic $1 registration fee for the diversity visa lottery—the first fee in the program's 30-year history. This change, combined with system modernization efforts, has pushed back the DV-2027 registration period past its traditional October opening.
Key Green Card Lottery Updates for November-December 2025
Several important changes affect green card lottery participants this season:
- DV-2026 Interviews Active: 129,516 selectees from 20.8 million entries are being interviewed at U.S. embassies worldwide
- December 2025 Visa Bulletin Released: Cutoff numbers increased across all regions, with Africa at 17,500 and Europe at 7,750
- DV-2027 Registration Delayed: Expected to open between December 2025 and January 2026
- New $1 Fee Required: Electronic payment must be submitted with DV-2027 applications
- Enhanced Fraud Detection: New security systems being implemented to reduce fraudulent entries
The December 2025 Visa Bulletin shows steady progression for DV-2026 case numbers. However, applicants should note that visa availability cannot be guaranteed through September 30, 2026, as numbers may be exhausted earlier.
Who Is Affected by These Green Card Lottery Changes
These updates impact multiple groups of diversity visa applicants differently based on their current status in the program.
For DV-2026 Selectees
If you were selected in the DV-2026 lottery, your interview scheduling depends on your case number and regional cutoff dates. Monitor the monthly Visa Bulletin to determine when your number becomes current. Ensure all documentation is complete and your passport photo meets requirements before your interview date.
For Prospective DV-2027 Applicants
The registration delay affects millions planning to enter the next lottery cycle. Prepare your $1 registration fee payment method and gather required documents including a recent digital photo meeting State Department specifications. Registration dates will be announced through official channels.
For DV-2025 Visa Holders
Your diversity visa remains valid. Focus on completing your move to the United States and beginning the permanent residency process. Contact USCIS for any questions about maintaining your green card status.
How to Check Your DV-2026 Lottery Status - Step by Step
Follow these steps to verify your selection status and interview scheduling:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to dvprogram.state.gov/ESC—this is the ONLY legitimate site
- Enter Your Confirmation Number: Use the 16-character confirmation number from your original entry
- Provide Personal Information: Enter your last name and date of birth exactly as submitted
- Review Your Status: The system displays whether you were selected and any interview details
- Save All Information: Screenshot or print your confirmation page for your records
- Check Regularly: Interview dates appear after initial selection notification
Important Dates and Timeline for Green Card Lottery
Mark these critical deadlines for both DV-2026 and DV-2027 programs:
- Now - September 30, 2026: DV-2026 interview period and visa issuance window
- Monthly (15th): New Visa Bulletin released with updated regional cutoff numbers
- December 2025 - January 2026: Expected DV-2027 registration opening (unconfirmed)
- September 30, 2026: Absolute deadline for DV-2026 visa issuance—no extensions
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the New $1 Green Card Lottery Fee?
Starting with DV-2027, the State Department requires a $1 electronic registration fee for all lottery entries. This fee, published in the Federal Register on September 16, 2025, aims to cover operational costs and reduce fraudulent applications. It must be paid electronically at the time of submission.
Why Is DV-2027 Registration Delayed?
The State Department is modernizing its registration systems and implementing enhanced fraud detection technology. The traditional October opening has been postponed indefinitely. Officials state that dates will be "widely publicized in the coming months" through official channels.
How Many People Win the Green Card Lottery?
For DV-2026, approximately 129,516 applicants were selected from 20.8 million qualified entries. However, only about 52,000-55,000 diversity visas are issued annually. Selection does not guarantee a visa—it only qualifies you to apply.
Does the State Department Send Lottery Winner Notifications?
No. The State Department never sends emails, letters, or phone calls to lottery winners. Any such communication is fraudulent. You must check your status exclusively through the official Entrant Status Check at dvprogram.state.gov.
What Photo Requirements Apply for the Green Card Lottery?
Your diversity visa photo must meet strict State Department specifications: 600x600 pixels, white background, recent (within 6 months), and showing your full face. Incorrect photos are a leading cause of disqualification. Use a professional visa photo service to ensure compliance.
What You Need to Know - Bottom Line
The green card lottery program undergoes significant changes heading into 2026. DV-2026 selectees should monitor the monthly Visa Bulletin closely and prepare all documentation before their interview date. With 129,516 people competing for approximately 52,000 visas, processing all applications before the September 2026 deadline remains challenging.
For those planning to enter DV-2027, patience is required as the State Department implements its new registration system and $1 fee structure. Prepare your documentation now, including a compliant passport photo that meets official requirements. When registration opens, act quickly—the window typically lasts only 30-35 days. Stay informed through official State Department announcements and avoid any third-party sites claiming to offer lottery registration services.
Sources: - [U.S. Department of State Visa Bulletin December 2025](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/visa-law0/visa-bulletin/2026/visa-bulletin-for-december-2025.html) - [Official Diversity Visa Portal](https://dvprogram.state.gov/) - [USAGov - DV Lottery Results](https://www.usa.gov/dv-lottery-results) - [Fragomen Immigration News](https://www.fragomen.com/insights/united-states-state-department-releases-fy-2026-diversity-visa-lottery-winners-tomorrow.html) - [BAL Immigration News](https://www.bal.com/immigration-news/united-states-november-2025-visa-bulletin-dates-for-filing-chart-show-no-movement-diversity-visa-lottery-2026-updates/)