25 October 2025
The U.S. Department of State has officially opened the Diversity Immigrant Visa (DV) Lottery for Fiscal Year 2026 often referred to as the Green Card Lottery. This highly anticipated program provides an opportunity for up to 55,000 individuals from countries with historically low immigration rates to the United States to obtain permanent resident status.
As an Immigration Attorney in New Jersey, VKM Law Group is here to help you understand the process, eligibility requirements, and important deadlines so you can apply confidently and avoid costly mistakes.
Application Dates and Process
- Application Window: October 2, 2024 (12:00 p.m. EDT) through November 7, 2024 (12:00 p.m. EST)
- Official Website: dvprogram.state.gov
- Results Available: May 3, 2025, through the Entrant Status Check portal on the same website
⚠️ Important: The U.S. government will not send emails or postal notices about your selection. Be sure to save your confirmation number and check your status directly online.
There is no fee to apply, and applications are only accepted electronically. Any paper submissions or applications through unofficial websites are automatically disqualified.
Who Is Eligible to Apply
To qualify for the Diversity Visa (DV-2026), applicants must meet two primary eligibility requirements:
1. Country of Birth
Only individuals born in eligible countries: those with historically low immigration to the U.S. may apply.
Not eligible for DV-2026:
Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China (including Hong Kong), Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, Venezuela, and Vietnam.
(Applicants born in Macau SAR and Taiwan remain eligible.)
If your country of birth is not eligible, you may still qualify if:
- Your spouse was born in an eligible country, or
- Your parents were born in an eligible country and neither was a legal resident of your country of birth.
2. Education or Work Experience
Applicants must have either:
- A high school education or equivalent (at least 12 years of formal study), or
- Two years of qualifying work experience within the last five years in an occupation requiring at least two years of training or experience.
The U.S. Department of Labor’s O*Net Online Database determines which jobs qualify.
Entry Rules and Photo Requirements
To ensure your entry is valid:
- Submit only one application per person (duplicates are disqualified).
- Provide accurate passport information and a valid email address you control.
- Upload a recent photo (taken within six months) that meets official U.S. visa photo standards: plain white or off-white background, full-face view, and no glasses.
Avoid Scams and Fraud
The Diversity Visa Lottery is completely free.
The U.S. Department of State never:
- Sends emails to announce winners, or
- Requests payment via third-party websites or money transfer services.
For official instructions, always refer to dvprogram.state.gov or travel.state.gov.
If you receive suspicious messages or requests for payment, contact an experienced U.S. Visa Attorney immediately for verification.
After You’re Selected
Being selected in the Diversity Visa Lottery is an exciting opportunity but it does not guarantee a visa.
If chosen, you must:
- Complete Form DS-260 (Online Immigrant Visa Application)
- Upload supporting documents to prove eligibility
- Attend an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate
All application processing and approvals must be completed by September 30, 2026. Once the annual quota of 55,000 visas is reached, the program closes for that fiscal year.
How VKM Law Group Can Help
At VKM Law Group, we guide individuals and families through every step of the U.S. immigration process from visa applications to permanent residency. Whether you are applying for the Diversity Visa Lottery or exploring other immigration pathways, our team provides clear, personalized legal support to help you achieve your American dream.
Our Immigration Attorneys in New Jersey have extensive experience assisting clients worldwide with:
- Diversity Visa (DV) applications
- Green Card and Permanent Residency matters
- Employment-based visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1)
- Family-based immigration petitions