The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery, is one of the most accessible pathways to permanent residence in the United States. Each year, the U.S. Department of State makes up to 55,000 immigrant visas available to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States through a random selection process.
For millions of people worldwide, the DV Lottery represents a life-changing opportunity to live, work, and build a future in America. Unlike most immigration pathways that require family sponsorship, employment offers, or substantial investment, the DV Lottery is open to anyone who meets the basic eligibility requirements - no sponsor needed, no job offer required, just a qualifying education or work experience and a bit of luck.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the DV-2027 program, including eligibility requirements, how to apply correctly, photo specifications, what happens after selection, and expert tips to ensure your application is complete and error-free. Whether you are applying for the first time or trying again after previous attempts, this guide will help you navigate the process successfully.
What is the DV Lottery?
The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, administered by the U.S. Department of State, was established by the Immigration Act of 1990 to diversify the immigrant population in the United States. The program makes up to 55,000 immigrant visas available annually to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States.
The term "lottery" refers to the random computer selection process used to choose applicants. Each fiscal year, millions of people from eligible countries submit entries, and a computer randomly selects approximately 100,000-120,000 applicants who then have the opportunity to apply for immigrant visas. The higher number of selections accounts for the fact that not all selectees will complete the visa process.
Winners of the DV Lottery and their eligible family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) can apply for permanent resident status (green card), allowing them to live and work permanently in the United States. After five years as a permanent resident, DV winners become eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship.
DV Lottery at a Glance
Available visas: Up to 55,000 per fiscal year
Application cost: FREE (no government fee to enter)
Eligibility: Based on country of birth and education/work experience
Selection: Random computer drawing from all eligible entries
Entry period: Typically October-November each year (about 30-35 days)
Results: Available approximately 6 months after entry period closes
Benefit: Permanent resident status (green card) for winner and immediate family
Citizenship path: Eligible after 5 years as permanent resident
DV-2027 Important Dates and Timeline
The DV-2027 program refers to diversity visas that will be issued during Fiscal Year 2027 (October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027). The registration period for DV-2027 typically opens in October 2025. Here are the key dates and timeline for the DV-2027 program:
DV-2027 Timeline
| Phase | Dates | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Opens | October 2025 | Entry period begins on dvprogram.state.gov |
| Registration Closes | November 2025 | Exactly 34-37 days to submit entry |
| Results Available | May 2026 | Check status using confirmation number |
| Visa Interviews Begin | October 2026 | FY2027 visa processing starts |
| Final Visa Deadline | September 30, 2027 | All DV-2027 visas must be issued by this date |
| No Extensions | Strict deadline | Visas cannot be issued after September 30, 2027 |
Critical: Keep Your Confirmation Number
When you submit your DV Lottery entry, you will receive a confirmation number. This number is your ONLY way to check your selection status. Store it securely - write it down, save it in multiple locations, email it to yourself. If you lose this number, there is NO way to recover it or check if you were selected.
When to Apply
Apply early in the registration period but not on the first day. The system can be slow on opening day due to heavy traffic. Applying midway through the registration period ensures the system runs smoothly and gives you time to prepare your documents and photos properly.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the DV Lottery, applicants must meet two basic requirements: country of eligibility and education/work experience. Understanding these requirements is essential before submitting your entry.
Country of Eligibility
Your eligibility is determined by your country of birth, not your current citizenship or residence. If you were born in a country that is not eligible for the DV program, you may still qualify through:
- Spouse's country of birth: If your spouse was born in an eligible country and will immigrate with you, you can claim their country of birth
- Parent's country of birth: If neither of your parents was born or resided in your birth country at the time of your birth, you may claim one parent's country of birth if it is eligible
Education or Work Experience Requirement
You must meet ONE of the following criteria:
- High school education: Completion of at least 12 years of formal elementary and secondary education (equivalent to U.S. high school diploma)
- Work experience: At least 2 years of qualifying work experience within the past 5 years in an occupation requiring at least 2 years of training or experience (as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor's O*NET database)
No Equivalency Accepted
A GED or equivalent certificate is NOT acceptable. You must have completed formal education. Similarly, work experience must be verifiable and in a qualifying occupation as defined by the O*NET database - not all jobs qualify.
Eligible and Ineligible Countries
The DV Lottery excludes natives of countries that have sent more than 50,000 immigrants to the United States over the previous five years. The list of ineligible countries can change each year based on immigration patterns. For DV-2027, the following countries are typically INELIGIBLE:
- North America: Canada, Mexico
- Asia: Bangladesh, China (mainland-born), India, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, Vietnam
- Caribbean: Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica
- Central America: El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras
- South America: Brazil, Colombia
- Europe: United Kingdom (except Northern Ireland) and its dependent territories
- Africa: Nigeria
Special Cases for Chargeability
Born in mainland China? You may still be eligible if your spouse was born in an eligible country (like Taiwan, Hong Kong, or Macau which ARE eligible). Similarly, those born in ineligible countries may qualify through a parent's country of birth in certain circumstances. Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, and Taiwan are treated separately from mainland China and ARE eligible.
Citizens of ALL other countries not listed above are generally eligible, including most of Africa, Eastern Europe, Oceania, and many Asian countries not on the exclusion list. Popular eligible countries include:
- Africa: Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, South Africa, Tanzania, and most other African nations
- Europe: Albania, Armenia, Belarus, Bulgaria, Georgia, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, and most European nations
- Asia: Iran, Iraq, Japan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan, and many Central Asian nations
- Oceania: Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, and Pacific Island nations
- South America: Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, and others not listed above
Photo Requirements - Critical for Success
Photo errors are the NUMBER ONE reason for DV Lottery disqualification. The U.S. Department of State has strict specifications that must be followed exactly. A rejected photo means your entire entry is invalid. Take this section seriously.
DV Lottery Photo Specifications
Dimensions: 600x600 pixels (minimum) to 1200x1200 pixels (maximum)
File format: JPEG (.jpg) only
File size: Maximum 240KB
Background: Plain white or off-white only
Head position: Facing directly forward, centered in frame
Head height: 50-69% of total image height (measured from top of head to bottom of chin)
Eye position: Eyes must be between 56-69% from the bottom of the photo
Expression: Neutral expression with both eyes open
Glasses: NOT allowed (including prescription glasses, sunglasses, or tinted lenses)
Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
Additional Photo Requirements
- Head coverings: Not allowed unless worn daily for religious beliefs. Even then, face must be fully visible from hairline to chin
- Lighting: Even lighting with no harsh shadows on the face or background
- Image quality: Sharp focus, no blur, proper exposure, no red-eye
- Face coverage: Full face visible with both ears showing (if not covered for religious reasons)
- No retouching: Photo cannot be digitally altered to change appearance
- Current appearance: Photo must accurately represent your current appearance
Glasses Are NOT Permitted
Since November 2016, the State Department no longer accepts photos with glasses of any kind - even prescription eyeglasses. This is a common mistake that leads to disqualification. Remove all eyewear before taking your DV Lottery photo.
Use the Official Photo Tool
The State Department provides a free photo validation tool at dvprogram.state.gov that checks if your photo meets the technical requirements. ALWAYS use this tool before submitting. If the tool rejects your photo, do not submit your entry - fix the photo first.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
The DV Lottery application is submitted online through the official State Department website. There is NO fee to enter. Any website charging money to submit a DV Lottery entry is a SCAM. Here's exactly how to apply:
- Wait for the official registration period: The entry period typically runs from early October to early November. Do not attempt to submit before the official opening date.
- Access the official website: Go to dvprogram.state.gov (the ONLY legitimate website). Bookmark it to avoid phishing sites. Never use links from emails or other websites.
- Prepare your information: Have ready: your full name (as on passport), date of birth, country of birth, country of eligibility, mailing address, country of current residence, phone number, email address, highest education level, and passport details.
- Prepare photos: Have digital photos ready for yourself and all family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21). Each person needs their own photo meeting all specifications.
- Complete the entry form (DS-5501): Fill out all required fields accurately. Use your name exactly as it appears on your passport. Double-check every field before proceeding.
- Include family members: You MUST list your spouse (even if they won't immigrate with you) and all unmarried children under 21, regardless of their eligibility or current residence. Only exception: your spouse is a U.S. citizen or green card holder.
- Upload photos: Upload your photo and photos for each family member listed. Use the photo validation tool to verify each photo before uploading.
- Submit your entry: Review all information carefully. Once submitted, you cannot make changes. Submit only ONCE - multiple entries result in disqualification.
- Save your confirmation number: After submission, you will receive a confirmation number and page. Print this page, save a screenshot, write down the number, email it to yourself - keep multiple copies in multiple locations.
- Check results: Starting in May, use your confirmation number at dvprogram.state.gov to check if you were selected.
Planning to Visit the USA?
Common Mistakes That Cause Disqualification
Millions of DV Lottery entries are disqualified each year due to preventable errors. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your entry is valid:
- Submitting multiple entries: You are allowed only ONE entry per person per year. Submitting more than one entry (even with minor variations) will disqualify ALL your entries. If married, both spouses can submit separate entries, but each must list the other.
- Photo errors: Incorrect dimensions, wearing glasses, wrong background color, blurry photos, old photos, or photos that don't show your current appearance. Use the official photo tool!
- Not listing all family members: You MUST include your spouse and ALL unmarried children under 21, even if they live elsewhere or won't immigrate. Failure to do so can result in disqualification or denial of their visas later.
- Name discrepancies: Your name must exactly match your passport. Include all names (first, middle, last) as they appear on your passport.
- Using unofficial websites: Only use dvprogram.state.gov. Scam sites steal money and personal information, and entries submitted through them are not valid.
- Incorrect country of birth: List the country as it existed at the time of your birth. For example, if born in the USSR, list the current country (Ukraine, Russia, etc.).
- Not meeting requirements: Entering without a high school diploma or qualifying work experience leads to disqualification during processing, even if selected.
- Losing confirmation number: Without it, you cannot check results or proceed with processing if selected.
- Missing deadlines: Submitting after the registration period closes or not responding promptly if selected.
- Providing false information: Lying on your application leads to permanent visa ineligibility and potential criminal charges.
DV Lottery Myths Debunked
Misinformation about the DV Lottery is widespread. Let's separate fact from fiction:
You need to pay a fee to enter the DV Lottery
Entry to the DV Lottery is 100% FREE. The U.S. government does not charge any fee to submit an entry. Any website or service charging money to submit your entry is a scam. The only official website is dvprogram.state.gov. Fees only apply AFTER selection, for visa processing and medical exams.
Applying multiple times increases your chances of winning
Submitting multiple entries is the fastest way to get DISQUALIFIED. The system is designed to detect duplicate entries, and all entries from that person will be invalidated. One person = one entry. If married, both spouses can submit separately (listing each other), effectively giving your household two chances.
The DV Lottery is completely random with equal chances for everyone
While selection IS random, visas are allocated by region, not equally distributed worldwide. Regions with fewer applicants have better odds per person. For example, Africa and Oceania typically have better odds than Europe or Asia. However, you cannot change your region - it's based on your country of birth.
If you're selected, you're guaranteed a green card
Selection is just the first step. You must still complete a visa application, attend an interview, pass medical and security checks, and prove you meet all requirements. Many selectees are denied visas due to ineligibility, incomplete documentation, or running out of time. Only about 50,000 of the 100,000+ selectees actually receive visas.
The Selection Process Explained
Understanding how selection works helps set realistic expectations and prepare for what comes next if you're chosen.
How Winners Are Chosen
The State Department uses a computer program to randomly select entries from each geographic region. The six regions are: Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, and South America/Caribbean. Each region receives a different allocation based on immigration patterns.
More selectees are chosen than available visas (typically 100,000-120,000 selectees for 55,000 visas) because many selectees will not complete the process. Each selectee receives a case number that determines their place in line for visa processing.
Understanding Your Case Number
If selected, you receive a case number like: 2027AF00012345
- 2027: The fiscal year (DV-2027)
- AF: Your region (AF=Africa, AS=Asia, EU=Europe, NA=North America, OC=Oceania, SA=South America)
- 00012345: Your position in the queue
Lower case numbers have earlier interview scheduling and better chances of receiving a visa before the September 30 deadline. Higher numbers may never be called if all visas are issued before reaching their number.
Track Visa Bulletin Progress
The State Department publishes a monthly Visa Bulletin showing which case numbers are being processed. Monitor this bulletin at travel.state.gov to know when your number might become current for interview scheduling.
After You're Selected: Next Steps
Congratulations if you see "You have been randomly selected"! But the work is just beginning. Here's what happens next:
- Complete DS-260: Submit the online immigrant visa application (DS-260) for yourself and each family member through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC). This detailed form asks about your education, work history, family, travel, and background.
- Gather civil documents: Collect birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, police certificates from every country you've lived in for 6+ months since age 16, and educational documents.
- Complete medical examination: Schedule and complete a medical exam with a panel physician authorized by the U.S. Embassy. This includes vaccinations, blood tests, and physical examination.
- Wait for interview scheduling: Once your case number becomes current (check the Visa Bulletin), the embassy will schedule your interview. This could take months depending on your case number.
- Prepare for the interview: Gather all required documents, bring originals and copies, prepare to answer questions about your application and intentions in the U.S.
- Attend the visa interview: Present your documents, answer questions honestly, and if approved, pay the immigrant visa fee ($330).
- Enter the United States: If approved, you must enter the U.S. before your visa expires (typically within 6 months of issuance) and before September 30 of the fiscal year.
- Receive your green card: After entering the U.S., your physical green card will be mailed to your U.S. address within a few weeks.
Costs After Selection (Approximate)
| Expense | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DS-260 Processing Fee | $330 per person | Paid at interview |
| Medical Examination | $150-400 per person | Varies by country |
| Vaccinations | $100-500 per person | Depends on needed vaccines |
| Document Translation | $50-200 | If documents not in English |
| Police Certificates | $20-100 each | From each country lived in |
| Photos | $10-30 | Passport-style photos |
| USCIS Immigrant Fee | $235 per person | Paid before travel to U.S. |
| Travel to U.S. | Varies | Flight to the United States |
Strict Deadline: September 30
ALL DV visas for a fiscal year must be issued by September 30. There are absolutely NO exceptions or extensions. If your visa is not issued by this date, your selection becomes void. Start the process early and respond promptly to all requests from the embassy.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances
While the DV Lottery is random, there are legitimate ways to improve your odds and ensure your entry is processed successfully:
- Both spouses should apply: If both you and your spouse are from eligible countries (or can claim eligibility), submit two separate entries listing each other. This legally doubles your household's chances.
- Perfect your photos: Photo errors cause the most disqualifications. Use the official photo tool, follow all specifications exactly, and consider professional photos.
- Apply every year: Previous entries don't affect future chances. Apply consistently each year the program is available.
- Keep records: Save confirmation numbers, screenshots, and all documentation. You may need this years later.
- Prepare documents early: If selected, having documents ready speeds up processing. Start gathering birth certificates, police clearances, and educational records now.
- Stay informed: Monitor official State Department announcements at travel.state.gov for updates, deadline changes, and important notices.
- Verify eligibility honestly: Ensure you truly meet education or work requirements before entering. False claims lead to denial and future visa ineligibility.
- Apply early (but not first day): Submit in the first week after opening but avoid the first day when servers are overloaded.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When does the DV-2027 lottery registration open?
Is the DV Lottery really free to enter?
Can I apply if I don't have a high school diploma?
My country is not eligible. Is there any way I can still apply?
Can both my spouse and I apply separately?
What happens if I'm selected but my case number is very high?
Do I need a job offer in the USA to apply?
Can I check my results from any country?
What if I lose my confirmation number?
Can I include my children who are over 21 on my application?
Will my DV Lottery entry affect my current visa or ESTA?
Can I apply from within the United States?
How many people apply for the DV Lottery each year?
What documents do I need if I'm selected?
Can I change my application after submitting?
Is there an age limit for the DV Lottery?
How long is the green card valid?
Can my family come with me if I win?
What if I'm selected but can't attend the interview by September 30?
Can I work in the USA immediately with a DV green card?
Your American Dream Starts Here
The Diversity Visa Lottery represents one of the most unique and accessible pathways to permanent residence in the United States. Unlike other immigration routes that require family connections, employer sponsorship, or significant investment, the DV Lottery is open to anyone who meets the basic requirements and comes from an eligible country.
While the odds may seem challenging with millions of applicants competing for 55,000 visas, someone wins every year - and it could be you. The key is submitting a perfect, error-free application and entering consistently each year the program is available.
Remember: the DV Lottery is completely FREE to enter. Don't let scammers take your money. Use only the official website at dvprogram.state.gov, follow the photo requirements exactly, and keep your confirmation number safe. Whether you're selected this year or in a future drawing, preparation is the key to success.
Good luck with your DV Lottery application, and may your American dream come true!
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Capital: Washington D.C.
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Language: English
Timezone: UTC-5 to UTC-10 (multiple time zones)
Processing: Varies by visa type
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- Population: 333+ million
- 50 states plus territories
- World's largest economy
- Power: 120V, Type A/B plugs
- Country code: +1
- Emergency: 911
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Comments(16)
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I won DV-2025 and just received my green card last month! It's real and it works. My advice: apply every single year, make sure your photo is PERFECT (use the official tool), and if you win, start gathering documents immediately. The process is long but worth it. Don't give up!
Been applying for 7 years now, still hoping. Does anyone know if the odds have gotten better or worse recently?
Question: My husband was born in Brazil (ineligible) but I was born in Portugal (eligible). Can we both apply and use my country?
The photo requirements are NO JOKE. My first year I was disqualified because of glasses. Second year, background was slightly gray instead of white. Third year I finally got it right with a professional photographer who knew the DV requirements. Now waiting for results!
I got selected in DV-2026 with case number EU00015XXX. My interview is scheduled for February. So nervous! Any tips for the interview?
WARNING to everyone: there are SO many scam websites that look official but charge $50-$100 to 'submit' your entry. The REAL site is dvprogram.state.gov and it's FREE! I almost fell for one until I noticed the slightly different URL. Be careful!
My whole family is applying this year - me, my wife, my brother and his wife. We're all from Ghana. If any one of us wins, can we bring the others?
I won DV-2024 but my case number was AF00089XXX (very high). My number never became current and I didn't get the visa. Had to wait and apply again. Now selected again in DV-2026 with a much lower number. Lesson: winning isn't everything - the case number matters a lot!
Can someone explain the education requirement better? I completed high school but it was only 11 years total in my country. Does that count?
Just submitted my DV-2027 entry! Triple-checked everything, used the photo validator tool, saved my confirmation number in 5 different places. Now the long wait begins. Good luck to everyone applying!
I'm currently in the US on a tourist visa. Can I apply for DV lottery? Will it affect my visa status?
My brother used an agent who charged $200 to submit his entry. Turns out the agent submitted the same entry twice (to 'increase chances') and he got disqualified. Please don't use agents - do it yourself on the official free website!
For those who won and went through the process - how long did it take from selection notification to actually landing in the US?
Selected in DV-2025! Case number SA00008XXX. My interview was in August and I just landed in Miami last week. The whole process from selection to arrival took about 16 months. Now starting my new life in Florida. Dreams do come true!
Question about Japan - I know Japan is usually eligible, but I heard it might become ineligible soon. Any updates on that?
I've been reading that some people submit multiple entries using different email addresses. Does this actually work or will they get caught?