Green Card Lottery 2027 Faces Historic Changes
The U.S. State Department has delayed the DV-2027 Green Card Lottery registration beyond its anticipated October 2025 opening date, marking the first time the program will charge a $1 registration fee. The new fee, published in the Federal Register on September 16, 2025, represents a significant shift for the Diversity Visa Program, which has been completely free since its inception.
According to official State Department communications, "Dates for the DV-2027 program registration period will be widely publicized in the coming months." The delay appears related to implementing the new payment processing system, though no official reason has been confirmed.
DV-2026 Results Announced: What Winners Need to Know
While DV-2027 faces delays, the DV-2026 lottery results became available on May 3, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. EST. Approximately 129,516 prospective applicants (including selectees, spouses, and children) were registered and notified through the official online portal.
Winners must check their status personally using their confirmation number at the official website dvprogram.state.gov. The State Department does not send notification letters by mail, email, or phone—any contact claiming you've won is fraudulent.
Major Updates to Green Card Lottery Program in 2025
Several critical changes are reshaping the Diversity Visa Program this year:
- New $1 Entry Fee: Starting with DV-2027, every applicant must pay $1 when submitting their entry—this fee is non-refundable regardless of selection status
- Registration Delay: DV-2027 registration postponed from early October 2025, with new dates to be announced soon
- Extended DV-2026 Deadline: Registration period was extended by two days, closing November 7, 2024, instead of November 5, 2024
- Anti-Fraud Measures: The $1 fee aims to combat widespread fraud that the State Department called "endemic" to the program
- Increased Visa Fees: Winners still pay $330 to apply for the actual Diversity Visa after being selected
The introduction of the entry fee marks the most significant program change in decades. Additionally, DV-2027 is expected to maintain similar eligibility requirements, with registration likely opening in October 2025 and continuing through November 2025.
Who Is Affected by These Green Card Lottery Changes
These updates impact millions of prospective immigrants worldwide. Understanding how changes affect your specific situation is crucial for planning your application.
For DV-2026 Lottery Winners
If you were selected in the DV-2026 lottery announced May 3, 2025, you can apply for your immigrant visa starting October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. You must complete all vetting with a U.S. consular officer by the September 30, 2026 deadline—missing this date means losing your green card opportunity. Ensure your passport photo meets official requirements before your visa interview.
For First-Time DV-2027 Applicants
If you're planning to enter the DV-2027 lottery for the first time, prepare to pay the new $1 registration fee when the application period opens. You'll need a valid payment method and should prepare your application materials in advance, including compliant passport-style photos. Remember, the fee is non-refundable whether you win or not.
For Previous Lottery Participants
If you've entered previous lotteries without success, the new $1 fee means you'll need to budget for annual entries. However, your odds of selection remain the same—approximately 1-2% depending on your country of eligibility. The fee was introduced specifically to reduce fraudulent bulk entries that have plagued the program.
How to Register for the Green Card Lottery - Step by Step
Follow these steps to successfully enter the Diversity Visa Lottery when registration opens:
- Wait for Official Announcement: Only register when the State Department officially announces the DV-2027 registration period through travel.state.gov—expect this in October 2025
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather digital passport-style photos for yourself and all family members that meet strict specifications (background, dimensions, quality)
- Use Official Website Only: Go directly to dvprogram.state.gov—never use third-party websites or "lottery services" that claim to improve your chances
- Complete Entry Form: Provide accurate information including full name, birth date, country of birth, education level, and current photos meeting visa photo requirements
- Pay $1 Registration Fee: Submit payment when you hit the final "submit" button—keep your confirmation number as this is your only way to check results
- Save Confirmation Number: Print or screenshot your confirmation number immediately—you cannot retrieve it later and need it to check if you won
- Check Results in May: Return to the official website in May of the following year using only your confirmation number—ignore any emails or letters claiming you won
Important Dates and Timeline for Green Card Lottery
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to avoid missing opportunities:
- October 2025 (Expected): DV-2027 registration period opens with new $1 fee requirement
- November 2025 (Expected): DV-2027 registration period closes—typically runs 30-35 days total
- May 2026 (Expected): DV-2027 lottery results announced online at noon EST
- October 1, 2025 - September 30, 2026: DV-2026 winners can apply for immigrant visas at U.S. consulates
- September 30, 2026: Final deadline for all DV-2026 winners to complete visa processing—no extensions granted
- October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027: Expected visa application period for DV-2027 winners
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Card Lottery Updates
Why Is the DV-2027 Green Card Lottery Delayed?
The U.S. State Department has not provided an official reason for the delay, but it likely relates to implementing the new $1 payment processing system. This is the first time in the program's history that an entry fee has been required, necessitating new technical infrastructure. The Department has promised that registration dates "will be widely publicized in the coming months."
Is the $1 Green Card Lottery Fee Refundable?
No, the $1 registration fee is completely non-refundable. You will not receive your dollar back if you are not selected in the lottery, if you make mistakes in your application, or if you decide not to proceed with the visa process. This fee is separate from the $330 visa application fee that winners must pay if selected.
How Do I Avoid Green Card Lottery Scams?
Only use the official government website at dvprogram.state.gov—never pay anyone who claims they can improve your chances or promises guaranteed selection. The State Department will never email, call, or mail you about winning. You must check results yourself using your confirmation number. Be especially wary of "visa consultants" demanding large "release" payments if you're selected, as this is a common fraud scheme.
What Happens If I Miss the DV-2027 Registration Deadline?
If you miss the registration deadline, you cannot enter the DV-2027 lottery under any circumstances. The State Department accepts no late entries or paper applications. Your only option would be waiting for the DV-2028 lottery registration period the following year. To avoid missing the deadline, don't wait until the last week of registration as heavy website traffic often causes delays.
Can I Enter the Green Card Lottery Multiple Times?
No, you can only submit one entry per person per year. Submitting multiple entries will disqualify all your applications. However, if your spouse qualifies, they can submit a separate entry, and if either of you wins, both of you can immigrate together. Each new lottery year (DV-2027, DV-2028, etc.) allows you to enter again.
What You Need to Know About Green Card Lottery Changes
The introduction of the $1 fee and delayed DV-2027 registration represent the most significant changes to the Diversity Visa Program in decades. While the delay creates uncertainty, it also gives applicants more time to prepare their applications properly and understand the new payment requirements.
If you're planning to enter the lottery, start preparing now by ensuring your passport photo meets strict government specifications—incorrect photos are a leading cause of disqualification. Monitor the official State Department website regularly for DV-2027 registration announcements, and never trust third-party services claiming to offer advantages. With proper preparation and attention to deadlines, you can maximize your chances of winning one of approximately 50,000 diversity visas available annually.