Green Card Lottery 2026-2027: Latest Updates and Changes
The green card lottery program has undergone significant changes in November 2025, with the DV-2027 registration period delayed and a new mandatory $1 fee introduced. The U.S. Department of State confirmed these updates on November 5, 2025, affecting millions of hopeful applicants worldwide.
These changes mark the first major updates to the Diversity Visa program in decades. Current DV-2026 selectees must act quickly to complete their applications, while prospective DV-2027 entrants await the opening of the new registration portal.
Key Changes to the Green Card Lottery Program
The State Department has implemented several important modifications to the diversity visa lottery process.
- DV-2027 Registration Delayed: The traditional early October registration window has been postponed indefinitely
- New $1 Registration Fee: A mandatory, non-refundable electronic fee took effect September 16, 2025
- Portal Modernization: Updates include enhanced identity verification and fraud prevention systems
- Passport Validation: Stronger verification systems are being implemented for all entries
- DV-2026 Visa Limit: Annual limit reduced to approximately 52,000 visas due to NACARA provisions
The Department stated that registration dates "will be widely publicized in the coming months." Immigration experts suggest the registration window may open between December 2025 and January 2026, with a shorter 2-3 week entry period.
DV-2026 Current Status and Selectee Requirements
For the DV-2026 program, 129,516 applicants have been selected from over 20.8 million qualified entries. However, only approximately 55,000 diversity visas will actually be issued.
For DV-2026 Lottery Winners
If you were selected in the DV-2026 lottery, your results have been available since May 3, 2025. You must complete your immigrant visa application or adjustment of status before September 30, 2026. Ensure your passport photo meets all requirements before your interview appointment.
For Prospective DV-2027 Applicants
Registration dates have not been announced yet. Monitor the official State Department website at dvprogram.state.gov for updates. Prepare your documents, including a valid passport and compliant visa photo, so you're ready when registration opens.
For Those Who Missed DV-2026
If you didn't enter the DV-2026 lottery, the DV-2027 program will be your next opportunity. Begin gathering required documents now, including ensuring your passport won't expire during the application process.
How to Check Your DV-2026 Lottery Results
Follow these steps to verify your selection status for the current green card lottery.
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to dvprogram.state.gov and click "Entrant Status Check"
- Enter Your Confirmation Number: Use the 16-character confirmation number from your original entry
- Provide Personal Details: Enter your last name and year of birth exactly as submitted
- Review Your Status: The system will display whether you were selected or not selected
- Save Your Information: If selected, print your confirmation page with your case number immediately
Important Warning: The State Department does not send emails or letters to lottery winners. Any communication claiming you've won is likely fraudulent. Only check results through the official portal.
November 2025 Visa Bulletin: DV-2026 Cutoff Dates
The November 2025 Visa Bulletin provides current processing dates for DV-2026 selectees by region.
- Africa: Cutoff numbers advancing for most countries
- Asia: Processing continues with regional variations
- Europe: Steady advancement in visa availability
- North America (Bahamas): Current processing numbers available
- Oceania: Generally current for most applicants
- South America: Progressive cutoff number increases
No single country can receive more than 7% of available diversity visas. Check the official Visa Bulletin at travel.state.gov for your specific regional cutoff numbers.
Important Dates and Timeline for Green Card Lottery
Mark these critical deadlines on your calendar to avoid missing important opportunities.
- Now - September 30, 2026: DV-2026 selectees must complete visa applications
- December 2025 - January 2026: Expected DV-2027 registration window (not confirmed)
- May 2026: Expected DV-2027 results availability
- October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027: DV-2027 visa application period
Frequently Asked Questions About the Green Card Lottery
What is the new $1 fee for the diversity visa lottery?
Starting with DV-2027, all applicants must pay a $1 non-refundable electronic registration fee when submitting their entry. This fee was established by a final rule published in the Federal Register on September 16, 2025. The fee helps prevent fraudulent multiple entries and covers processing costs.
Why is the DV-2027 registration delayed?
The State Department is modernizing the registration portal with enhanced identity verification, passport validation, and fraud prevention systems. The Department stated it will announce registration dates "as soon as practicable." This marks the first delay in the program's history.
How do I know if I won the green card lottery?
You must check your status at the official portal (dvprogram.state.gov) using your confirmation number. The State Department never sends notifications by email, letter, or phone. Any such communication is a scam. Results for DV-2026 are available until September 30, 2026.
What photo requirements apply to the diversity visa lottery?
Your photo must be recent (within 6 months), 2x2 inches (51x51mm), with a white background. The photo must show your full face with neutral expression, and you cannot wear glasses. Using VisaPics ensures your photo meets all State Department specifications to avoid disqualification.
Can I apply for DV-2027 if I'm currently in the United States?
Yes, you can enter the DV lottery regardless of your current location. However, you must be a native of an eligible country and meet education or work experience requirements. Being in the U.S. on a visa does not affect your eligibility to enter.
What You Need to Know: Bottom Line
The green card lottery program is undergoing its most significant changes in years. DV-2026 selectees have until September 30, 2026 to complete their applications, while DV-2027 hopefuls must prepare for a delayed registration with the new $1 fee requirement. Over 20 million people entered the last lottery for approximately 55,000 visas.
To maximize your chances, prepare your documents now and ensure your passport photo meets official requirements. Monitor the State Department website for DV-2027 registration announcements, and never respond to unsolicited emails claiming you've won. With VisaPics, you can create compliant photos for your diversity visa application that meet all State Department specifications, helping avoid disqualification due to photo errors.