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.
What happens if I’m selected for the 2026 DV lottery but I’m currently outside the United States
If you are selected for the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery while currently outside the United States, here’s what you need to know about the process:
Steps After Selection
- Check Your Status: You must verify your selection through the Electronic Diversity Visa (E-DV) website using your confirmation number. The Department of State does not send notification letters or emails regarding selection.
- Complete the DS-260 Form: After confirming your selection, you should fill out the online DS-260 application for an immigrant visa. This is a crucial step to initiate your visa processing.
- Schedule an Interview: Once your DS-260 is submitted, you will need to schedule an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country or country of residence. It’s advisable to do this as soon as possible, as there are deadlines associated with the DV Lottery.
Visa Processing
- Consular Processing: Most DV lottery winners who are outside the U.S. will go through consular processing, which involves applying for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy. This includes attending an interview and providing necessary documentation such as passport photos, birth certificates, and proof of eligibility.
- Immigrant V U.S. and become a lawful permanent resident upon entry
Important Considerations
- Documentation: Ensure that all required documents are prepared and submitted as part of your application process to avoid delays.
- Time Constraints: You must complete all processing by September 30 of the fiscal year for which you were selected. If not completed in time, your selection will be voided, and you will lose the opportunity to obtain a green card through this lottery.
- Eligibility Requirements: Being selected does not guarantee a visa; you must still meet all eligibility criteria under U.S. law during your consular interview.
How can I increase my chances of winning the 2026 DV lottery
To increase your chances of winning the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, consider the following strategies:
Key Strategies
- Apply as a Couple: If you are married, both you and your spouse should apply for the lottery. This effectively doubles your chances since each application is treated separately. If one of you wins, the other can apply as a derivative spouse.
- Include Eligible Family Members: If you have children who meet the educational or work experience requirements, they should also apply. Each eligible family member can submit their own application, further increasing your family’s overall chances of winning.
- Understand Eligibility Requirements: Ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria before applying. This includes being a native of an eligible country and having at least a high school diploma or two years of work experience in a qualifying occupation.
- Submit Applications Early: The DV Lottery has a limited number of slots available. Submitting your application early during the registration period can help avoid last-minute issues due to website traffic or technical problems.
- Double-Check Your Application: Mistakes in your application can lead to disqualification. Carefully review all information for accuracy, including names, dates, and photographs, to ensure compliance with the DV Lottery requirements.
- Beware of Scams: The application process is free, and you should only apply through the official U.S. Department of State website. Avoid any services that claim to guarantee a win or charge fees for entry.
- Stay Positive and Patient: The selection process is random, and many applicants may not win in any given year. Remain hopeful and consider reapplying in future lotteries if not selected
What documents do I need to gather before applying for the 2026 DV lottery
To apply for the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, you need to gather several important documents and information. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you will need:
Personal Information
- Full Name: Your name as it appears on your passport.
- Date of Birth: Exact date of birth.
- Country of Birth: The country where you were born, which must be eligible for the DV lottery.
- Country of Eligibility: This can be your country of birth or, if applicable, your spouse’s or parent’s country of birth.
- Passport Information: Passport number, issuance date, and expiration date.
Family Information
- Spouse Information: Full name, date of birth, and passport details. You must list your spouse even if they do not intend to immigrate.
- Children Information: Details for all biological and adopted children, regardless of age, and stepchildren under 21.
Educational and Work Experience Documentation
- Education Proof:
- A high school diploma or equivalent (not including equivalency certificates like the GED).
- School transcripts or a certificate of completion from an educational institution that verifies your education level.
- Work Experience Evidence (if applicable):
- Documentation showing at least two years of qualifying work experience in the last five years in a job that requires at least two years of training. This must align with U.S. Department of Labor classifications.
Photographs
- Recent Passport-Style Photos: Two identical photos that meet the specific requirements set by the U.S. Department of State for visa applications
Additional Documentation (if applicable)
- Deportation Documentation: If you have been previously deported from the U.S., you will need Form I-212 (Permission to Reapply after Deportation) and follow its instructions.
Important Notes
- Ensure that all documents are accurate and complete before submission.
- Keep a copy of your confirmation number after submitting your application online, as this is crucial for checking your application status later.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the U.S. straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Diversity Visa or an Immigrant Investor Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit the United States. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
