Green Card Lottery Program Updates for Late 2025
Green card lottery updates from the U.S. State Department reveal significant changes affecting both current DV-2026 selectees and future DV-2027 applicants. The December 2025 Visa Bulletin maintains most regional cutoff numbers while the DV-2027 program faces historic delays due to new security measures and a mandatory $1 entry fee.
These diversity visa lottery changes represent the most substantial modifications to the program in years. With 129,516 DV-2026 winners currently processing their applications and millions preparing for DV-2027 registration, understanding these green card lottery updates is essential for applicants worldwide.
DV-2026 December Visa Bulletin Cutoff Numbers
The U.S. State Department's December 2025 Visa Bulletin shows most regional cutoffs remaining stable from November. Here are the current green card lottery numbers by region:
- Africa: 17,500 (Algeria: 17,250, Egypt: 16,000)
- Asia: 10,000 (Nepal: 6,000)
- Europe: 7,750
- Oceania: 1,100
- South America & Caribbean: 1,850
- North America (Bahamas): 20
These cutoff numbers indicate which case numbers can schedule immigrant visa interviews. If your DV-2026 case number is below your region's cutoff, you may proceed with visa processing. The January 2026 bulletin will show significant advancement, particularly for Africa (jumping to 35,000) and Asia (increasing to 15,000).
DV-2027 Green Card Lottery Registration Delays
The most significant green card lottery update concerns the DV-2027 program. Traditional October registration has been delayed while the State Department implements major system changes.
New $1 Entry Fee Requirement
For the first time in diversity visa lottery history, applicants must pay a $1 registration fee. This fee aims to reduce fraudulent and duplicate entries that have plagued the program. Payment processing systems are being integrated into the registration portal.
Enhanced Security Measures
The State Department is modernizing the registration portal with improved verification systems. New rules may require applicants to upload valid passport scans during registration. These measures target fraud prevention and program integrity.
Expected Timeline
DV-2027 registration is expected between December 2025 and January 2026, though exact dates remain unconfirmed. The State Department advises checking the official Diversity Visa webpage regularly for announcements.
Who Is Affected by These Green Card Lottery Updates
These changes impact different groups of diversity visa lottery participants in various ways.
For DV-2026 Selectees
If you were selected in the DV-2026 lottery, your deadline is September 30, 2026. You must complete your immigrant visa interview and receive your visa before this date. Ensure your passport photo meets requirements for your DS-260 application and interview.
For DV-2027 Prospective Applicants
Anyone planning to enter the DV-2027 lottery must prepare for the new $1 fee and potential passport upload requirement. Have your valid passport ready and monitor official State Department channels for registration opening dates.
For DV-2025 Selectees
Your deadline is September 30, 2025—just weeks away. If you haven't scheduled your interview or received your visa, time is running out. No extensions are granted beyond this date.
How to Check Your DV-2026 Lottery Status
Follow these steps to verify your green card lottery selection status:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to dvprogram.state.gov/ESC (Entrant Status Check)
- Enter Your Confirmation Number: Use the confirmation number from your original 2024 registration
- Provide Required Information: Enter your name and birth year exactly as submitted
- Review Your Status: The system will display whether you were selected and your case number
- Follow Next Steps: If selected, complete DS-260 application and prepare documentation
Important Dates and Timeline for DV Lottery
Mark these critical green card lottery dates on your calendar:
- September 30, 2025: Final deadline for DV-2025 selectees to receive visas
- October 1, 2025 - September 30, 2026: DV-2026 visa issuance period
- December 2025 - January 2026: Expected DV-2027 registration period (unconfirmed)
- May 2026: Expected DV-2027 results announcement
- September 30, 2026: Final deadline for DV-2026 selectees
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Card Lottery
How much does the DV-2027 green card lottery cost?
The DV-2027 lottery will require a $1 registration fee—the first time in program history. This fee is separate from immigrant visa processing fees if you're selected. The registration itself on the official State Department website has always been free until now.
Why is DV-2027 registration delayed?
The State Department is implementing enhanced fraud detection systems, payment processing for the new $1 fee, and potentially passport verification requirements. These upgrades aim to reduce the millions of fraudulent and duplicate entries submitted each year.
How many people were selected in DV-2026?
Approximately 129,516 applicants (including spouses and children) were selected from over 20.8 million entries. Only about 55,000 diversity visas will ultimately be issued, as the annual limit is reduced to approximately 52,000 due to NACARA and NDAA provisions.
What documents do I need for my DV visa interview?
You'll need a valid passport, birth certificate, police certificates, medical examination results, DS-260 confirmation page, and passport-size photos meeting U.S. visa requirements. Educational documents proving high school completion or qualifying work experience are also required.
What DV Lottery Applicants Need to Know
The green card lottery program continues offering 55,000 permanent resident visas annually to eligible countries. Despite the DV-2027 delays and new fee, the fundamental opportunity remains unchanged. Current DV-2026 selectees should focus on completing their applications before September 30, 2026.
For those preparing to enter DV-2027, gather your documents now—including a valid passport and compliant photo for your application. The State Department warns that any emails or letters claiming you've won are fraudulent. The official Entrant Status Check at dvprogram.state.gov is the only legitimate way to verify selection. Stay informed through official government channels and avoid third-party services charging fees for lottery registration.
--- Sources: - [U.S. Department of State - December 2025 Visa Bulletin](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/visa-law0/visa-bulletin/2026/visa-bulletin-for-december-2025.html) - [USAGov - DV Lottery Eligibility](https://www.usa.gov/dv-lottery-eligibility) - [Official DV Program Portal](https://dvprogram.state.gov/) - [BAL Immigration News - November 2025 Visa Bulletin](https://www.bal.com/immigration-news/united-states-november-2025-visa-bulletin-dates-for-filing-chart-show-no-movement-diversity-visa-lottery-2026-updates/)