Green Card Lottery December 2025: Key Updates You Need to Know
The green card lottery program enters December 2025 with significant developments affecting millions of applicants worldwide. The U.S. State Department has released new cutoff numbers for DV-2026 selectees while delaying the DV-2027 registration period to implement historic program changes.
These updates mark the most substantial modifications to the Diversity Visa program in its 30-year history. Current DV-2026 winners and future applicants must understand these changes to successfully navigate their immigration journey.
December 2025 DV-2026 Cutoff Numbers Released
The State Department's December 2025 Visa Bulletin provides updated regional cutoff numbers for DV-2026 green card lottery selectees.
- Africa: 17,500 (Egypt: 16,000, Algeria: 17,250)
- Asia: 10,000 (Nepal: 6,000)
- Europe: 7,750
- Oceania: 1,100
- South America & Caribbean: 1,850
- North America (Bahamas): 20
If your case number falls below these regional cutoffs, you can proceed with your green card application immediately. Those with higher numbers should monitor monthly visa bulletin updates from the State Department.
DV-2027 Registration Delayed: New $1 Fee Required
For the first time in the Diversity Visa program's history, applicants will pay a $1 non-refundable registration fee. This change has caused significant delays to the traditional October registration window.
- Registration Status: DV-2027 entry is NOT currently open
- Expected Opening: Late December 2025 or January 2026
- New Requirement: $1 electronic registration fee for all entries
- Registration Window: Expected 2-3 weeks (reduced from typical 30+ days)
- Fee Purpose: Covers processing costs and reduces fraudulent entries
The State Department announced this change on November 5, 2025, stating the fee will "more fairly allocate costs" and "discourage speculative registrations." The $1 fee is expected to generate approximately $25 million annually from an estimated 25 million registrants.
Who Is Affected by These Green Card Lottery Changes
These developments impact different groups of applicants in distinct ways.
For DV-2026 Selectees
If you were selected in the DV-2026 lottery, 129,516 applicants registered for approximately 52,000 available visas. You must complete your immigrant visa application or adjustment of status before September 30, 2026. Check your status at dvprogram.state.gov/ESC.
For Future DV-2027 Applicants
Prepare to pay the new $1 fee when registration opens. Monitor the official dvprogram.state.gov website daily for announcements. Have your passport information ready, as enhanced identity verification may be required.
For Those Currently Waiting
Do not fall for scam websites claiming registration is open. The State Department has issued official fraud warnings about false registration claims. Only the official portal at dvprogram.state.gov will accept legitimate entries.
How to Apply for the Green Card Lottery - Step by Step
Follow these steps when DV-2027 registration officially opens:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to dvprogram.state.gov (the ONLY legitimate entry point)
- Gather Required Documents: Valid passport, recent passport photo meeting requirements, education/work credentials
- Complete the DS-5501 Form: Enter personal information, education, and work history accurately
- Upload Your Photo: Submit a compliant 600x600 pixel digital photo with white background
- Pay the $1 Fee: Complete electronic payment (new requirement for DV-2027)
- Save Your Confirmation: Store your confirmation number securely—this is your only way to check results
Important Dates and Timeline for Green Card Lottery 2025-2026
Mark these critical dates on your calendar:
- Now Through September 30, 2026: DV-2026 selectees can check status and complete applications
- December 2025 - January 2026: Expected DV-2027 registration opening (date TBA)
- Registration Window: Approximately 2-3 weeks once opened
- May 2026: Expected DV-2027 results announcement
- October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027: DV-2027 visa application period
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the DV-2027 green card lottery registration open now?
No. As of December 2025, DV-2027 registration has not opened. The State Department is implementing system changes for the new $1 fee. Any website claiming registration is currently available is fraudulent.
Why is there a new $1 fee for the diversity visa lottery?
The State Department introduced the fee to cover program operational costs and reduce fraud. Previously, costs were covered only by the $330 application fee paid by lottery winners. The $1 fee distributes costs among all 25 million annual registrants.
How do I check my DV-2026 lottery status?
Visit dvprogram.state.gov/ESC and enter your confirmation number, last name, and year of birth. This is the only official method—the State Department never sends winner notifications via email, mail, or phone.
What are the photo requirements for the green card lottery?
Photos must be 600x600 pixels, taken within the last 6 months, with a white or off-white background. Your face must occupy 50-69% of the frame. VisaPics can help ensure your photo meets all official requirements.
Protect Yourself from Green Card Lottery Scams
The State Department has issued urgent fraud warnings for 2025. Scammers are sending fake winner notifications and false registration links.
- Official Entry Only: Use dvprogram.state.gov exclusively
- No Winner Emails: The government NEVER emails, calls, or mails lottery results
- No Guaranteed Selection: No service can improve your winning chances
- Report Scams: File complaints at econsumer.gov or the FBI's IC3
What You Need to Know: Bottom Line
The green card lottery program is experiencing its most significant changes in decades. DV-2026 winners should monitor monthly cutoff numbers and complete applications before the September 30, 2026 deadline. Future applicants must prepare for the new $1 fee and potentially shortened registration window.
Ensure your passport photo meets all requirements before applying, as rejected photos can disqualify your entry. Stay informed through official State Department channels and avoid any service claiming to guarantee lottery selection or early registration access.