DV Lottery Application 2026 — What You Need to Know

Every year, the United States offers a limited number of Diversity Visas (Green Cards) through a lottery program designed to bring in immigrants from countries with historically low immigration to the U.S. Below is the latest on how the DV Lottery works, what’s new, and how you can apply properly.

Who Can Apply & Eligibility Requirements

1. Country Eligibility

You must be born in a country that is eligible for the DV lottery (i.e., not on the list of excluded countries for that year).
For DV-2026, ineligible countries include (among others): China (mainland & Hong Kong), India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Mexico, Vietnam, Brazil, and more.
If your country is excluded, you may sometimes qualify via your spouse’s country of birth (if spouse is eligible) or, in limited circumstances, by a parent’s birth country.

2. Education or Work Experience

You must meet one of the following:

• Have at least a high school education (or equivalent), meaning successful completion of a 12-year formal course of schooling.
• OR have two years of work experience within the past 5 years in an occupation that requires at least two years of training or experience.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1. Wait for registration opening (early October in most years) and apply online only via the official DV portal.
2. Fill out the application carefully, following all instructions, including correct names, dates, and country codes.
3. Upload recent digital photos for all individuals listed (yourself, spouse, children).
4. Submit the application before the deadline. No late or paper submissions are accepted.
5. After submission, you will receive a confirmation number — keep it safe. This is the only way to check your status later.
6. Check your status using Entrant Status Check starting May 3, 2025.

 What’s New & Important Changes

• The U.S. State Department recently announced that starting October 16, 2025, a $1 registration fee will be required for DV lottery entries. This is the first time a fee is introduced just for entry.
• Entry remains free for DV-2026. The application, if selected, still requires visa fees.

Fraud Warning & Tips

• The State Department will not send emails, letters, or phone calls announcing your selection. All status checks happen via the official DV site.
• Beware of scams or third-party sites asking for money to “increase your chances.” Use only the official U.S. government DV site.
• Submitting multiple entries will disqualify you entirely.

Next Steps for Applicants

• Ensure you meet country and education/work criteria before applying
• Prepare required documents and photos in advance
• Apply early during registration window to avoid website delays
• After checking results in May, follow the detailed steps if selected: visa application, interview, and further processing