Green Card Lottery 2027 Registration Delayed Past October Deadline
The U.S. Department of State has officially delayed the DV-2027 Diversity Visa Lottery registration period past its expected early October 2025 opening date. On November 5, 2025, the State Department confirmed the delay and stated that registration dates will be announced "as soon as practicable" on the official website dvprogram.state.gov.
This marks the first time in recent years that the Green Card Lottery registration has been postponed beyond its traditional October timeframe. The delay comes as the State Department implements significant changes to the entry process, including a new mandatory registration fee and enhanced antifraud measures.
Historic $1 Registration Fee Introduced for DV-2027
The most significant change to the Diversity Visa program is the introduction of a $1 electronic registration fee, published in the Federal Register on September 16, 2025. This represents the first time the Green Card Lottery will not be completely free to enter.
- Fee Amount: $1 per entry, paid electronically at time of submission
- Payment Method: Electronic payment required through official government portal
- Revenue Impact: Expected to generate approximately $25 million annually from 25 million registrants
- Cost Distribution: Shifts program expenses from 55,000 lottery winners to all applicants
- Implementation Date: Effective October 16, 2025, for all DV-2027 applications
According to the Department of State, the new fee structure aims to reduce speculative registrations, fairly allocate program costs, and help cover operational expenses previously borne only by lottery winners who proceed with visa applications.
Who Is Affected by the Green Card Lottery Changes
The DV-2027 program changes impact millions of prospective immigrants worldwide. Understanding how these updates affect different groups is crucial for successful application.
For First-Time DV Lottery Applicants
If you're applying for the first time, you'll need to budget for the new $1 registration fee and ensure you have a valid payment method ready when registration opens. First-time applicants should also prepare compliant passport photos that meet strict U.S. government specifications before the registration window opens.
For Previous DV Lottery Participants
Previous applicants who applied for free must now pay the $1 fee for DV-2027 entries. Additionally, the delayed registration period means you should monitor dvprogram.state.gov daily for the official announcement rather than assuming the traditional early October start date.
For Citizens of Ineligible Countries
Nationals from countries with more than 50,000 immigrants to the U.S. in the past five years remain ineligible. For DV-2027, this includes India, Bangladesh, Brazil, China, and several other high-immigration countries.
How to Prepare for DV-2027 Registration - Step by Step
Follow these essential steps to prepare your application before registration opens:
- Verify Country Eligibility: Confirm your country of birth qualifies for the DV-2027 program on the official State Department eligibility list
- Prepare Compliant Photos: Obtain passport photos meeting exact specifications (2x2 inches, white background, recent within 6 months) through a professional service or verified photo tool
- Gather Required Documents: Collect passport information, birth certificates, and educational/work experience documentation proving high school completion or two years qualifying experience
- Set Up Payment Method: Ensure you have a valid electronic payment method ready for the $1 registration fee
- Create Reminder Alerts: Set up notifications to monitor dvprogram.state.gov daily for the official registration announcement
- Review Entry Requirements: Study official instructions at travel.state.gov to understand photo specifications, eligibility criteria, and submission guidelines
Important Dates and Timeline for DV-2027
While exact registration dates remain unannounced, here's the expected timeline based on State Department guidance:
- November-December 2025: Registration period expected to open (dates to be announced)
- 60-Day Window: Approximately 60-day registration period similar to previous years
- May 2026: Lottery results announcement for DV-2027 program
- October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027: Visa application and processing period for selected winners
- September 30, 2027: Final deadline for DV-2027 visa issuance
State Department Issues Fraud Warning for DV-2027 Applicants
On November 5, 2025, the U.S. Department of State issued an urgent public alert warning applicants about fraud schemes. Officials confirmed awareness of fraudulent claims that DV-2027 entry registration is already open.
The State Department emphasized that individuals and services falsely claiming they can increase your chances of selection are operating scams. The DV lottery is a random selection process, and no service can improve your odds beyond submitting a single, compliant entry.
How to Avoid Green Card Lottery Scams
Only use the official government website at dvprogram.state.gov for registration. Never pay fees exceeding $1 for registration, and beware of services charging hundreds of dollars to "guarantee" selection or "expedite" processing.
Legitimate immigration attorneys can help prepare your application but cannot increase your random selection odds. Additionally, submitting multiple entries leads to automatic disqualification, so only file one entry per person regardless of what third-party services claim.
Frequently Asked Questions About DV-2027
Why Was the DV-2027 Registration Delayed?
The State Department has not provided an official explanation for the delay. Immigration experts speculate the postponement relates to implementing the new $1 fee system and upgraded antifraud technology. The delay may also involve technical updates to the electronic registration system to process millions of payment transactions securely.
How Many Green Cards Are Available Through DV-2027?
The Diversity Visa program grants up to 55,000 immigrant visas annually to applicants from countries with historically low immigration rates to the United States. However, approximately 100,000-140,000 individuals are typically selected to account for those who don't complete the process, ensuring all 55,000 visas are issued.
What Photo Requirements Must I Meet for DV-2027?
Your passport photo must be exactly 2x2 inches (51x51mm), taken within the last six months against a plain white background. The photo must show your full face, both ears visible, with a neutral expression and eyes open. Photos not meeting exact specifications result in automatic disqualification, so consider using a professional passport photo service to ensure compliance.
Can I Apply for DV-2027 If I Previously Won But Didn't Get a Visa?
Yes, previous lottery selection does not affect your eligibility for future DV programs. If you were selected for DV-2026 or earlier years but didn't receive a visa, you can apply again for DV-2027 when registration opens.
What You Need to Know About the Green Card Lottery Delay
The DV-2027 Diversity Visa Lottery remains a valuable pathway to U.S. permanent residence despite registration delays and new fees. Approximately 25 million people worldwide compete annually for 55,000 green cards, making preparation and compliance with requirements essential for success.
Monitor dvprogram.state.gov daily for official registration announcements, and ensure your passport photo meets requirements before the window opens. Services like VisaPics can help you create compliant passport photos that meet exact U.S. State Department specifications, eliminating a common cause of disqualification. Start preparing your documents, payment method, and photos now so you're ready to apply immediately when registration opens in the coming weeks.