Breaking: Green Card Lottery 2027 Registration Delayed
The U.S. Department of State confirmed on October 9, 2025, that registration for the Diversity Visa (DV) 2027 lottery has been delayed past its traditional early October opening date. This marks an unprecedented delay in the program's history, leaving millions of hopeful applicants worldwide waiting for an official start date. The State Department has not yet announced when the DV-2027 registration period will begin.
This delay coincides with the implementation of a groundbreaking new $1 electronic registration fee, which took effect on October 16, 2025. For the first time in the diversity visa lottery's history, all participants must pay to enter the annual green card lottery.
Major Changes to Green Card Lottery Registration in 2025
The DV-2027 lottery introduces significant changes that every prospective applicant needs to know:
- $1 Registration Fee: All applicants must pay a non-refundable $1 electronic fee when submitting their entry through the official U.S. government portal at dvprogram.state.gov
- No Refunds: Registration fees will not be refunded regardless of lottery results or whether applicants proceed with their visa application
- Non-Transferable: Fees cannot be transferred between lottery years, meaning you'll pay $1 for each year you apply
- Original Fee Unchanged: The $330 DV application fee for selected winners remains the same and is separate from the registration fee
- Federal Register Publication: The final rule was published in the Federal Register on September 16, 2025, making it officially effective immediately
- Revenue Generation: With approximately 25 million entries annually, the new fee could raise $25 million to fund system upgrades and security measures
The State Department states this fee aims to distribute operational costs more broadly, reduce fraudulent or duplicate entries, and more fairly share the administrative burden of the lottery. Previously, only the small percentage of successful registrants paid fees through the $330 application fee.
Who Is Affected by These Green Card Lottery Changes
These updates impact millions of diversity visa lottery applicants worldwide. Here's what different groups need to know:
For First-Time DV Lottery Applicants
If you're planning to apply for the green card lottery for the first time, you'll need a valid payment method to complete your DV-2027 registration. The $1 fee represents a minimal barrier to entry, but you should ensure you have access to electronic payment before the registration period opens. Remember that meeting photo requirements is crucial - your passport photo must meet strict U.S. visa specifications to avoid disqualification.
For Previous Lottery Participants
If you've entered the diversity visa lottery in previous years, this is your first time paying a registration fee. Budget for the $1 fee plus ensure your passport photo meets current requirements. Even if you weren't selected in previous years, each lottery is independent, so your chances remain the same at approximately 1-2% depending on your country of eligibility.
For DV-2026 Winners Currently Processing
If you were selected in the DV-2026 lottery (results announced May 3, 2025), these changes don't affect your application. However, you must complete your visa application and obtain your green card by September 30, 2026. Focus on gathering required documents and scheduling your consular interview promptly.
How to Prepare for DV-2027 Lottery Registration - Step by Step
Follow these steps to ensure you're ready when registration opens:
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm your country of birth is eligible for the DV-2027 lottery (check dvprogram.state.gov for the official list of eligible countries)
- Prepare Payment Method: Have a valid credit card, debit card, or electronic payment method ready for the $1 registration fee
- Get Proper Photos: Obtain compliant passport photos that meet U.S. diversity visa specifications - photos must be recent (within 6 months), 2x2 inches, with neutral expression and plain white background
- Gather Required Information: Collect details for your spouse and all children under 21, including full names, dates of birth, and passport photos for each family member
- Bookmark Official Website: Save dvprogram.state.gov as your only trusted source - beware of fraudulent websites charging excessive fees or making false guarantees
- Set Reminders: Monitor official announcements for the registration start date, expected sometime in November 2025 based on expert estimates
- Complete Application Promptly: Submit your entry early during the registration window to avoid last-minute technical issues
Important Dates and Timeline for Green Card Lottery 2027
Mark these critical dates on your calendar:
- September 16, 2025: Final rule published in Federal Register establishing $1 registration fee
- October 16, 2025: New $1 registration fee officially takes effect
- Early October 2025 (Expected): Original anticipated start date for DV-2027 registration - delayed by State Department
- November 2025 (Estimated): Expected new opening date for DV-2027 registration based on expert predictions
- Late November 2025 (Estimated): Anticipated registration closing deadline, typically 30 days after opening
- May 2026 (Estimated): DV-2027 lottery results announcement, accessible through Entrant Status Check
- September 30, 2027: Final deadline for all DV-2027 winners to obtain their diversity visa or adjust status
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Card Lottery Changes
Why Was the DV-2027 Lottery Registration Delayed?
The State Department has not officially explained the delay, but immigration experts cite potential factors including implementation of the new $1 fee payment system and possible government budget constraints. Some sources suggest uncertainty surrounding government funding may have contributed to the postponement. This is the first time in the program's history that registration has been delayed past early October.
Is the $1 Registration Fee Legitimate or a Scam?
The $1 fee is completely legitimate and was officially established through a Federal Register publication on September 16, 2025. However, only pay this fee on the official website dvprogram.state.gov. Fraudulent websites may charge much higher fees ($50-$200+) while offering no actual benefits. The U.S. government never contacts lottery applicants by email or phone requesting payments.
What Happens If I Don't Pay the $1 Fee?
Your diversity visa lottery entry will not be accepted without payment of the $1 registration fee for DV-2027 and all future lottery cycles. The fee is mandatory for all applicants and must be paid at the time of electronic registration submission. There are no exemptions or waivers available.
Can I Get a Refund If I'm Not Selected?
No, the $1 registration fee is non-refundable under all circumstances. Whether you're selected or not selected in the lottery, or whether you choose not to proceed with your application after being selected, you will not receive a refund. This policy is clearly stated in the Federal Register rule.
How Many Green Cards Are Available Through the DV Lottery?
The Diversity Visa Program makes up to 55,000 immigrant visas available each year through random selection. However, not all 55,000 visas are guaranteed to be issued - they're distributed on a first-come, first-served basis among selected winners who qualify and complete the application process before the September 30 deadline.
What You Need to Know Before Applying
The DV-2027 green card lottery represents your opportunity to pursue permanent residence in the United States through one of the most accessible immigration pathways. Despite the new $1 fee and registration delay, the diversity visa lottery remains significantly more affordable than other green card options. With approximately 25 million applicants competing for 55,000 visas, preparation is essential.
Start by ensuring your passport photo meets all U.S. visa photo requirements - improper photos are a leading cause of disqualification. Use reliable photo services like VisaPics to guarantee your photos meet exact specifications for size, background color, and facial positioning. Monitor dvprogram.state.gov daily for the official registration opening announcement, and submit your application early during the registration window to avoid technical issues. Remember, this is a once-a-year opportunity with life-changing potential.