Breaking: Green Card Lottery Registration Delayed Beyond October 2025
The U.S. Department of State announced on November 5, 2025, that the DV-2027 Green Card Lottery registration has been officially delayed past its traditional early October opening date. For the first time in the program's history, applicants will now pay a $1 electronic registration fee when the application period finally opens. The State Department stated registration dates will be announced "as soon as practicable" but has not provided a specific timeline.
This unprecedented delay affects millions of hopeful immigrants worldwide who typically begin their diversity visa applications in the first week of October each year. Immigration attorneys speculate the postponement is directly linked to implementing the new fee collection system, though the State Department has not officially confirmed this connection.
Major Changes to the Diversity Visa Lottery Program
The DV-2027 program introduces several significant updates that all applicants need to understand before registration opens.
- New $1 Registration Fee: Published in the Federal Register on September 16, 2025, this is the first time the lottery will not be completely free to enter
- Electronic Fee Collection: The $1 fee must be paid electronically at the time of filing the DV application through the official government portal
- Increased Visa Processing Fee: Selected lottery winners will pay $330 (up from previous amounts) to apply for their diversity visa
- Proposed Passport Requirement: While announced on August 5, 2025, this rule requiring all applicants to have a valid passport will NOT be implemented for DV-2027
- Enhanced Fraud Prevention: The State Department has issued multiple warnings about fraudulent websites and services falsely claiming DV-2027 registration is already open
These changes mark the most significant updates to the diversity visa lottery program in recent years. The $1 fee, while modest, represents a fundamental shift from the historically free application process that has existed since the program's inception.
Who Is Affected by the Green Card Lottery Delay
The DV-2027 delay impacts various groups of potential applicants differently, depending on their circumstances and timeline needs.
For First-Time Lottery Applicants
If you're applying for the first time, use this delay to prepare your documentation properly. Ensure you have compliant passport photos that meet strict U.S. visa requirements, gather birth certificates, and review eligible countries. The extra time allows you to avoid common mistakes that lead to disqualification.
For Previous Lottery Participants
If you've applied in past years without success, the delay gives you additional time to verify your eligibility and update your information. Review your previous application photos to ensure they meet current specifications, as photo-related errors are among the most common reasons for disqualification.
For Immigration Professionals and Organizations
Attorneys, non-profits, and organizations assisting applicants should use this period to educate clients about the new $1 fee and payment process. Prepare your clients for the electronic payment requirement and warn them about the proliferation of fraudulent lottery services taking advantage of the confusion.
How to Prepare for DV-2027 Lottery Registration - Step by Step
Follow these essential steps to be ready when registration finally opens:
- Monitor Official Sources Only: Check the State Department's official website at dvprogram.state.gov daily for registration opening announcements
- Prepare Your Passport Photo: Obtain a compliant digital photo meeting exact U.S. specifications - incorrect photos are the leading cause of disqualification
- Gather Required Documents: Collect birth certificates, marriage certificates (if applicable), and spouse/children information for the application
- Set Up Payment Method: Ensure you have a valid credit/debit card or electronic payment method ready for the $1 registration fee
- Review Eligibility Requirements: Confirm your country of birth is eligible and you meet education or work experience requirements
- Create a Secure Email: Use a reliable email address you'll have access to for at least 2 years to receive notifications
- Avoid Third-Party Services: Do NOT pay anyone to submit your application - the official process only costs $1 and you can do it yourself
Important Dates and Timeline for DV-2027
Here's what we know about the DV-2027 timeline based on official State Department communications:
- September 16, 2025: New $1 registration fee rule published and took effect in Federal Register
- October 2025 (Expected but Delayed): Registration was expected to open but has been postponed indefinitely
- November 5, 2025: State Department confirms delay and promises to announce dates "in the coming months"
- Late 2025 (Anticipated): Registration period expected to open for approximately 30-60 days once announced
- May 2026 (Expected): Results typically announced around May of the following year
- October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027: Visa application period for selected winners (confirmed unchanged)
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Card Lottery Updates
Why Is the DV-2027 Registration Delayed?
The State Department has not provided an official reason, but immigration experts believe the delay is linked to implementing the new $1 electronic fee collection system. This represents the first time the lottery has charged an application fee, requiring new payment processing infrastructure. The department stated on November 5, 2025, that they will announce the start date "as soon as practicable."
How Much Does the Green Card Lottery Cost Now?
The DV-2027 lottery now costs $1 to enter, paid electronically when you submit your application. If you're selected, you'll pay an additional $330 diversity visa processing fee. Previously, the lottery entry was completely free, making this a historic change to the program. Be aware that the $1 fee is non-refundable regardless of whether you're selected.
Can I Still Apply if I Don't Have a Passport Yet?
Yes, you can still apply for DV-2027 without a passport. While the Trump administration proposed requiring all applicants to have a valid passport, this rule will not be implemented for the 2027 lottery. However, if you're selected, you will need a passport to complete your visa application and interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
How Can I Avoid Green Card Lottery Scams?
Only use the official government website at dvprogram.state.gov when it opens. The State Department has warned about fraudulent websites falsely claiming DV-2027 registration is already open. Never pay anyone more than the official $1 fee to enter, and remember that no service can increase your chances of selection - the lottery is completely random.
What You Need to Know About the Green Card Lottery Delay
The DV-2027 Green Card Lottery delay represents an unusual disruption to the typically predictable annual schedule, but it also provides extra preparation time for serious applicants. The introduction of the $1 fee and enhanced fraud prevention measures signal the State Department's commitment to modernizing and securing the program. Stay alert to official announcements expected in the coming weeks.
Use this waiting period wisely by preparing your documentation, especially ensuring your passport photo meets exact specifications to avoid disqualification. When registration opens, you'll have only a limited window to apply, so being fully prepared now will give you the best chance of success in the lottery and ultimately securing your path to U.S. permanent residency.