The United States has opened online registrations for the Fiscal Year 2026 Diversity Visa (DV) lottery, providing a pathway to a USA Green Card for eligible foreign nationals. Registrations are open until November 5, 2024, at noon EST. This program offers up to 55,000 green cards through a random selection process. Results will be announced in May 2025, and selected individuals can apply for their green cards starting October 1, 2025.
Eligibility for the USA Green Card
The DV lottery is open to natives from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States. Unfortunately, individuals from countries with high immigration rates to the U.S. cannot register. For FY 2026, those ineligible include:
- Bangladesh
- Brazil
- Canada
- China (including mainland and Hong Kong SAR)
- Colombia
- Cuba
- Dominican Republic
- El Salvador
- Haiti
- Honduras
- India
- Jamaica
- Mexico
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- South Korea
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
However, individuals born in Macau SAR and Taiwan can participate. If applicants were born in an excluded country, they might qualify through a spouse from an eligible country or, in certain circumstances, through a parent’s birthplace. Entrants must also have at least a high school education or two years of qualifying work experience in the past five years.
How to Register for the USA Green Card
To enter the DV lottery, submit an online form and a digital photo on the official DV lottery website. Applicants can include their spouse and children in the application. Remember, only one entry per person is allowed; multiple entries will lead to disqualification. Carefully follow the State Department’s official instructions, as incorrect entries or photos will result in disqualification.
After submitting the application, you will receive a confirmation number. This number is essential for checking your application status later.
Selection Process for the USA Lottery
The State Department uses a computer system to randomly select lottery winners. Results will be announced starting May 3, 2025, and will be available on the official DV lottery website until at least September 30, 2026. To find out if you have been selected, visit the official DV website and enter your confirmation number.
Be cautious: the State Department does not notify participants via mail, email, fax, or phone. The official website is the only legitimate source for lottery results.
Conclusion
The USA Green Card through the Diversity Visa lottery offers a unique opportunity for eligible foreign nationals. By understanding the eligibility requirements and registration process, you can take the first step toward a successful application. Don’t miss your chance—register before November 5, 2024!