The US Department of State will open the online application for the 2026 Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery on Wednesday, October 2, at noon EDT. Registration is closed on 5 November at noon EST. Be sure to apply during this period to have a chance of winning one of the 55,000 green cards that are available for the fiscal year 2026.
This is done through the Diversity Visa Program which gives those from low-immigrant countries to the United States a chance to apply for a green card. If you get selected, you might be allowed to live and work in the US permanently.
Countries Excluded from 2026 DV Lottery Results
No 2026 Diversity Visa Lottery applicants from the following countries are accepted:
- Bangladesh
- Brazil
- Canada
- China (municipal and Hong Kong SAR)
- Colombia
- Cuba
- Dominican Republic
- El Salvador
- Haiti
- Honduras
- India
- Jamaica
- Mexico
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- South Korea
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
If you’re from one of these countries, then you cannot participate in the 2026 DV Lottery. Yet applicants from countries that aren’t heavily immigrant to the U.S. can still apply.
Apply for the Diversity Visa Lottery
For the application, fill out the online application form on the U.S. Department of State website. So, here are some helpful hints for your app:
- Pre-apply: Because of high demand, the official website can take a bit longer to respond. Be sure to get in early in the application window to avoid problems.
- Application is Permitted Only Once: You may apply only once. The lottery will pull you out of it if you apply for more than one.
- Keep It Up-to-Date: Provide the proper information and go through the application process to ensure you get considered.
This is pretty straightforward, thanks to the State Department, but remember to pay close attention to all the instructions when filling out your form.
What Happens After You Apply?
The results of your application will be announced in 2026 after you have sent in your application. If you are approved, you can then start the application process to receive your green card. Don’t forget that being a winner in the lottery does not guarantee you a visa. There are further steps, such as interviews and checks.
Why Apply Early?
You’ll want to apply for the DV Lottery early on to be protected against last-minute flurry and delays due to website traffic. Getting your application in early will guarantee you a chance to win the lottery without the stress of waiting until the last minute.
