Historic Changes Coming to Green Card Lottery Program
The U.S. Department of State announced on October 16, 2025, that for the first time in the program's history, all applicants must pay a $1 registration fee to enter the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery. This marks a significant policy shift for the DV-2027 program, affecting an estimated 25 million annual registrants worldwide. The new fee structure is expected to generate approximately $25 million annually to cover operational costs.
The Diversity Visa Lottery, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery, provides 55,000 immigrant visas annually to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States. Registration dates for DV-2027 will be widely publicized in the coming months, according to the State Department's November 2025 Visa Bulletin.
Key Changes for DV-2027 Green Card Lottery
The State Department has confirmed multiple updates affecting future diversity visa applicants. Here are the most important changes you need to know:
- $1 Registration Fee: All entrants must pay a non-refundable $1 fee when submitting their DV-2027 application, regardless of selection outcome
- Modified Entry Process: The Department of State will implement changes to the lottery entry system, with specific details to be announced soon
- Enhanced Revenue Generation: The new fee aims to offset program expenses and improve processing efficiency for millions of applications
- Payment Required Upfront: Unlike previous years where only selected winners paid fees, all applicants must now pay during registration
- Registration Timeline Pending: Official DV-2027 registration dates will be announced in the coming months, expected for early October 2025
The State Department emphasized that these changes aim to modernize the diversity visa program while maintaining its core mission of promoting immigration diversity. The $1 fee represents a minimal cost compared to subsequent visa processing fees, which currently stand at $330 per applicant.
Who Is Affected by These Green Card Lottery Updates
These changes impact millions of prospective immigrants worldwide. Understanding how these updates affect your specific situation is crucial for successful application.
For DV-2027 Applicants (Future Registrants)
If you plan to apply for the DV-2027 program, you must prepare to pay the $1 registration fee when the application period opens. This fee is non-refundable and required for all entries. Ensure your passport photo meets all requirements before registration begins, as rejection due to photo issues wastes your registration fee.
For DV-2026 Selectees (Current Winners)
If you were selected in the DV-2026 lottery, results are available now through September 30, 2026. Approximately 129,516 selectees and their family members have registered and may be eligible to apply. You must complete all visa processing and obtain your visa or adjust status before the fiscal year ends on September 30, 2026.
For DV-2025 Participants
The DV-2025 program has officially ended, with the fiscal year closing on September 30, 2025. If you were a DV-2025 selectee who did not complete the process, you cannot carry your selection forward and must reapply for future lottery cycles.
How to Prepare for DV-2027 Registration - Step by Step
Follow these essential steps to maximize your chances of successful diversity visa lottery registration:
- Monitor Official Announcements: Check the State Department's Diversity Visa website regularly at dvprogram.state.gov for DV-2027 registration dates
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather your birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), and recent passport-style photos meeting strict specifications
- Verify Photo Requirements: Ensure your passport photo meets all diversity visa photo requirements, including white background, 2x2 inch size, and recent date within 6 months
- Set Up Payment Method: Prepare a valid payment method to pay the $1 registration fee when the application period opens
- Create Entry Confirmation: Save your confirmation number immediately after registration to check your status when results are announced
- Avoid Scams: Only use the official dvprogram.state.gov website - never pay third-party services claiming to increase your chances
Important Dates and Timeline for Green Card Lottery
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to stay on track with diversity visa lottery deadlines:
- October 16, 2025: New $1 registration fee policy officially takes effect for all future DV lottery applications
- Early October 2025 (Expected): DV-2027 registration period anticipated to open based on historical patterns
- Early November 2025 (Expected): DV-2027 registration deadline, typically lasting 30-37 days after opening
- May 2026 (Expected): DV-2027 results announcement via Entry Status Check portal at dvprogram.state.gov
- September 30, 2026: Final deadline for all DV-2026 selectees to complete visa processing and obtain immigrant visas
- Coming Months: State Department will widely publicize specific DV-2027 registration dates and system changes
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Card Lottery Changes
Is the $1 Registration Fee Refundable?
No, the $1 diversity visa lottery registration fee is non-refundable regardless of whether you are selected or not. Even if you later decide not to pursue a visa or if your application is rejected due to technical errors, you cannot recover this fee. Make sure all your information and photos are correct before submitting.
When Will DV-2027 Registration Open?
The State Department has not announced the exact DV-2027 registration dates yet, stating they "will be widely publicized in the coming months." Based on historical patterns, registration typically opens in early October and closes in early November. Check dvprogram.state.gov regularly for official announcements.
Can I Still Apply for Free to the Diversity Visa Lottery?
No, starting with the DV-2027 program, all applicants must pay the $1 registration fee. This represents the first time in the program's history that a fee is required just to enter the lottery. However, this is separate from the $330 visa processing fee that selected winners must pay later.
How Many People Win the Green Card Lottery Each Year?
The diversity visa program selects approximately 55,000 immigrant visa winners annually from eligible countries. However, more people are initially selected than this number because not all selectees will complete the visa process. For DV-2026, approximately 129,516 selectees and their family members have registered to apply.
What Happens If My Passport Photo Doesn't Meet Requirements?
If your diversity visa lottery photo does not meet the strict technical specifications, your entire entry will be disqualified, and you will lose your $1 registration fee. Common rejection reasons include incorrect background color, improper dimensions, poor lighting, or wearing glasses. Consider using professional visa photo services to ensure compliance with all requirements.
What You Need to Know About Green Card Lottery Updates
The introduction of a $1 registration fee and upcoming system changes represent the most significant updates to the Diversity Visa Lottery program in recent years. While the fee remains minimal, it marks a fundamental shift in how the program operates and generates revenue. Prospective applicants should monitor official State Department channels closely for DV-2027 registration dates expected to be announced soon.
To maximize your chances of success, ensure all your documentation is prepared in advance, particularly your passport photo which must meet exact specifications. Using professional services to create compliant visa photos can prevent costly disqualifications and wasted registration fees. Stay informed through official government sources and never fall for scams promising guaranteed selection for additional fees.