Green Card Lottery Registration Delayed with New Fee
The U.S. Department of State has confirmed a significant delay in the opening of the DV-2027 Diversity Visa Lottery registration period, which traditionally begins in early October. For the first time in the program's history, applicants must now pay a $1 electronic registration fee to enter, with the new rule taking effect on October 16, 2025. As of late October 2025, the State Department has not announced official registration dates, stating only that dates "will be widely publicized in the coming months."
The delay represents an unusual departure from the program's typical timeline, as previous years saw registration open during the first week of October. Immigration attorneys speculate the postponement may be linked to implementing the new global payment processing system required for the $1 fee.
Major Changes to the Diversity Visa Lottery Program
The DV-2027 cycle introduces several critical updates that applicants need to understand before registration opens:
- $1 Registration Fee: Every applicant must pay $1 electronically when submitting their DV lottery entry via the official government portal at dvprogram.state.gov
- Non-Refundable Payment: The $1 fee is non-refundable under any circumstances and cannot be transferred to future lottery years
- Delayed Registration Timeline: Registration has not opened as of October 24, 2025, despite the traditional early October start date
- Payment Methods: Fees must be paid online using major credit/debit cards or other electronic methods accepted by the State Department
- Additional Costs Still Apply: Winners still pay the existing $330 Diversity Visa application fee if selected, making the total cost $331 for successful applicants
- Federal Register Publication: The final rule establishing the $1 fee was published on September 16, 2025, and became effective immediately
This marks a historic change for millions of hopeful immigrants worldwide who previously could enter the lottery at no cost. The State Department has declined to provide specific reasons for the registration delay.
Who Is Affected by These Changes
The new fee and delayed timeline impact all prospective DV-2027 applicants globally. Understanding how these changes affect your specific situation is crucial for proper planning.
For First-Time Lottery Applicants
If you're entering the diversity visa lottery for the first time, budget for the $1 registration fee and ensure you have a valid payment method accepted by the U.S. government portal. Additionally, prepare your passport photo in advance to meet strict diversity visa photo requirements, as technical photo rejections are a common reason for disqualification.
For Previous Lottery Participants
Even if you've entered the DV lottery in previous years, you must pay the new $1 fee for DV-2027. Your previous registrations do not carry over, and each year requires a fresh entry with payment. Monitor travel.state.gov closely for the official registration announcement to avoid missing the limited entry window.
For Immigration Attorneys and Consultants
Legal professionals assisting clients with DV lottery applications must update their fee structures and client communication to reflect the new $1 registration charge. Ensure clients understand this is in addition to professional fees and the $330 visa application fee if selected.
How to Prepare for DV-2027 Registration - Step by Step
Follow these essential steps to ensure you're ready when registration finally opens:
- Monitor Official Channels: Check travel.state.gov and dvprogram.state.gov daily for the official registration announcement from the State Department
- Prepare Payment Method: Ensure you have a valid credit or debit card that works for international transactions and online U.S. government payments
- Get Compliant Photos Ready: Obtain passport-style photos that meet exact diversity visa specifications (2x2 inches, white background, recent photo within 6 months)
- Gather Required Documents: Compile your passport information, education credentials, and spouse/children details if applicable
- Create Account Information: Prepare a secure email address and password combination for your DV lottery entry confirmation
- Review Eligibility Requirements: Confirm your country of birth is eligible for DV-2027 and you meet education or work experience requirements
- Plan for Registration Window: Expect a 30-day registration period similar to previous years (typically early October to early November)
Important Dates and Timeline
Keep these critical dates in mind for the DV-2027 lottery program:
- September 16, 2025: Final rule establishing $1 registration fee published in Federal Register and became effective
- October 16, 2025: Official effective date for the $1 registration fee requirement
- Late October 2025: Registration dates still unannounced; State Department promises "wide publicity in coming months"
- Expected Registration Period: Likely 30-day window (dates TBA) - previous cycle ran October 2 to November 7, 2024
- May 2027 (Estimated): DV-2027 lottery results typically announced in early May following the fiscal year pattern
- October 1, 2027 - September 30, 2028: Fiscal year when DV-2027 winners can receive their immigrant visas
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the $1 Green Card Lottery Fee Refundable?
No, the $1 registration fee is completely non-refundable under all circumstances. Whether you're selected, not selected, or make an error in your application, you cannot get this fee back. Additionally, the fee cannot be transferred or applied to future diversity visa lottery years, so you must pay $1 each time you enter.
Can I Still Enter the DV Lottery for Free Anywhere?
No, starting with DV-2027, all applicants must pay the $1 electronic registration fee when submitting their entry. There are no exemptions, waivers, or free entry options available. Be extremely cautious of websites or services claiming to offer free DV lottery registration, as these are likely scams attempting to collect your personal information.
When Will DV-2027 Registration Actually Open?
The exact registration dates have not been announced as of late October 2025. The State Department has stated that dates "will be widely publicized in the coming months" on their official website at travel.state.gov. Based on previous years, expect a 30-day registration window, likely in late 2025, though the unprecedented delay makes predictions difficult.
What Happens If I Don't Have a Credit Card for the $1 Fee?
You must have access to an electronic payment method accepted by the U.S. government portal, which typically includes major credit cards, debit cards, or other approved online payment systems. If you don't have a card, consider obtaining a prepaid debit card, asking a trusted friend or family member to pay on your behalf, or consulting with immigration service providers who may offer payment assistance. Cash, checks, and money orders are not accepted for the online registration.
What Applicants Need to Know Now
The introduction of the $1 registration fee and unexplained delay in opening DV-2027 registration represent significant changes to the diversity visa lottery program. While the fee itself is minimal, it marks a philosophical shift toward cost-recovery for a program that has historically been free to enter. Moreover, the delay creates uncertainty for millions of prospective applicants worldwide who are waiting to submit their entries.
If you're planning to enter the DV-2027 lottery, prepare your application materials now, including ensuring your passport photo meets all official requirements for visa applications. Monitor the official State Department website daily for registration announcements, and be ready to act quickly when the entry period opens, as technical issues and photo problems are common reasons for disqualification. For assistance with compliant passport and visa photos, professional services like VisaPics can help ensure your application meets exact government specifications before you pay your registration fee.