The United States will open applications for the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery 2027 in early October 2025. The program, managed by the U.S. Department of State, provides up to 55,000 immigrant visas annually. Applicants must submit entries electronically through the official DV Lottery website, as paper submissions are not accepted. The entry period will run from early October to early November 2025, with exact dates announced later.
New $1 Registration Fee Introduced
For the first time, applicants must pay a $1 electronic registration fee when submitting entries. The change, effective October 16, 2025, aims to offset administrative costs. According to the State Department, the DV Lottery receives over 25 million entries each year. Officials believe the fee will reduce fraud and discourage fake or duplicate submissions by third-party agents. The new fee is non-refundable, even for those not selected.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be natives of countries with historically low U.S. immigration rates. In addition, they must hold at least a high school education or its equivalent. Alternatively, they may qualify with two years of work experience in an occupation requiring two years of training. Applicants must provide accurate personal information, passport details, and a recent digital passport-style photograph meeting U.S. standards.
Confirmation and Selection Process
After payment and submission, applicants will receive a confirmation number. This number is vital for checking results in May 2026. The U.S. government does not notify winners by email, letter, or phone. Selected individuals will proceed to the visa application stage, which still carries the unchanged $330 fee.
Accessibility and Concerns
The State Department argues that the $1 fee spreads costs more fairly among all applicants. However, critics warn that even small financial barriers may deter participation from low-income regions. Currency conversion fees and limited digital payment access remain concerns in underrepresented countries. Despite these challenges, the DV Lottery continues to be one of the most accessible U.S. immigration programs.
Government Warning on Scams
Officials stress that the only way to apply is through the official DV Lottery website. No outside service can increase an applicant’s chances of success. Prospective participants should prepare documents early, use authorized platforms, and avoid fraudulent services charging unnecessary fees.
