Green Card Lottery Suspended: What Happened
The green card lottery program, officially known as the Diversity Visa (DV) Program, was suspended by the Trump administration on December 18, 2025. This unprecedented pause affects over 129,516 DV-2026 selectees who were chosen from more than 20.8 million qualified entries.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced the suspension following tragic shootings at Brown University and MIT. The suspected shooter, identified as a Portuguese national who entered the United States through the DV Program in 2017, prompted immediate security concerns within the administration.
Key DV-2026 Green Card Lottery Changes
The suspension has triggered significant changes to how DV applications are processed. Here's what you need to know:
- Processing Hold: USCIS has placed a hold on all pending adjustment of status applications filed under the DV Program, effective immediately
- Visa Issuance Paused: The State Department has indefinitely paused diversity visa issuance at all U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide
- Enhanced Security Reviews: All pending applications now require in-depth security reviews, with some applicants facing re-interviews
- Interviews Continue: DV applicants may still submit applications and attend scheduled interviews, but no visas will be issued
- Work Authorization Affected: Applications for adjustment-based work and travel authorization are also on hold
The State Department emphasized this pause allows them to undertake a comprehensive review of screening and vetting protocols. However, the administration has not announced how long the suspension will last.
Who Is Affected by the Green Card Lottery Suspension
The suspension impacts multiple groups of applicants at various stages of the immigration process.
For DV-2026 Selectees Currently in the U.S.
If you're adjusting status within the United States, your application is now on hold. USCIS adjudicators have been instructed to pause all pending diversity visa adjustment applications. You may be contacted for additional interviews or documentation.
For DV-2026 Selectees Abroad
Your consular interview may still proceed as scheduled, but no visas will be issued until the pause is lifted. The State Department has stated that existing appointments will generally not be rescheduled or cancelled.
For Future DV-2027 Applicants
The DV-2027 registration has been delayed indefinitely. Originally expected to open in early October 2025, the registration period remains postponed. When it does open, a new $1 electronic fee will be required for the first time in the program's 30+ year history.
How to Protect Your DV-2026 Application
Despite the suspension, there are critical steps you should take immediately:
- Keep Checking Your Status: Regularly visit dvprogram.state.gov using your confirmation number to check for any updates to your case
- Gather All Documents: Use this time to ensure all required documentation is complete, including civil documents, police certificates, and medical exams
- Prepare Your Photo: Ensure your passport photo meets strict State Department specifications—incorrect photos remain a leading cause of application problems
- Monitor Official Sources: Only follow updates from travel.state.gov and uscis.gov to avoid scams and misinformation
- Consult an Immigration Attorney: Given the unprecedented nature of this suspension, professional legal guidance is highly recommended
Important DV-2026 Dates and Deadlines
These critical deadlines remain in effect despite the suspension:
- September 30, 2026: Absolute deadline for all DV-2026 applicants to complete visa issuance or adjustment of status—this statutory deadline cannot be extended
- Status Check Available: DV-2026 results remain accessible through the Entrant Status Check portal until September 30, 2026
- Current Fiscal Year: DV-2026 visa processing window runs from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026
- DV-2027 Registration: Expected to open in late December 2025 or January 2026, with a shortened 2-3 week window
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Green Card Lottery Permanently Cancelled?
No, the Diversity Visa Program is authorized by Congress and remains part of U.S. immigration law. The current suspension is a temporary administrative pause while security reviews are conducted. Permanent cancellation would require Congressional legislation.
What Happens If My DV-2026 Application Isn't Approved by September 30, 2026?
Unfortunately, the September 30, 2026 deadline is statutory and cannot be extended. If your application is not approved by this date, you permanently lose eligibility for DV-2026. This makes the current processing pause particularly concerning for selectees.
Can I Still Apply for DV-2027?
The DV-2027 registration period has been delayed indefinitely. When it opens, you'll need to pay a $1 registration fee—the first fee in the program's history. Monitor travel.state.gov for registration period announcements.
What Photo Requirements Apply to the Green Card Lottery?
DV lottery photos must meet strict State Department specifications: 2x2 inches (51x51 mm), taken within the last 6 months, with a plain white or off-white background. Incorrect photos are among the top reasons for application disqualification. VisaPics can help ensure your photo meets all official requirements.
What You Need to Know: Bottom Line
The green card lottery suspension represents the most significant disruption to the Diversity Visa Program in its 30+ year history. With 129,516 DV-2026 selectees facing an uncertain path forward and a statutory deadline of September 30, 2026 that cannot be extended, time is critical for affected applicants.
While the suspension continues, focus on ensuring all your documentation is complete and compliant. Your passport photo requirements are particularly important—ensure your photo meets official visa application standards to avoid any additional delays when processing resumes. Stay informed through official government channels and consider consulting with an immigration attorney to understand your options.