As of today, Friday, July 4, 2025, here are the key updates regarding the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery for the DV-2027 program:
Application Period (DV-2027):
- The entry period for DV-2027 is expected to open October 2, 2025, and close early November 2025—likely around November 7. These dates follow the pattern from previous years.
- The exact dates will be officially announced by the U.S. Department of State on the official DV Program website (dvprogram.state.gov). It’s crucial to check this site for the precise opening and closing times.
Results Announcement (DV-2027):
- The results for DV-2027 are typically made public in May of the year following the application period, which means May 2026.
- You will need to use the Entrant Status Check tool on the official DV Program website (dvprogram.state.gov) to see if you were selected. You will not receive direct notification by mail or email.
Key Program Information (Generally applicable for DV-2027):
- Eligibility:
- You must be a native of a country with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S. (the list of eligible countries changes annually, so check the official instructions when they are released).
- You must meet either the education or work experience requirement:
- A high school education or its equivalent, OR
- Two years of work experience within the past five years in an occupation that requires at least two years of training or experience.
- Passport Rule: The Trump-era “passport rule,” which required a valid passport for initial entry, has been overturned. You are currently not required to have a valid passport when you submit your DV entry.
- Cost: Entering the Diversity Visa lottery is free. Be wary of any services that charge a fee to simply submit your application. If you are selected and proceed with the visa application, there will be fees associated with that process.
- Photo Requirements: You must submit a recent passport-style photo that meets specific guidelines. Using the same photo from a previous year’s entry or one that doesn’t meet specifications will lead to disqualification.
- Inclusion of Family Members: You must list your spouse (even if they don’t live with you or intend to immigrate) and all biological, legally adopted, and step-children under 21 at the time of your application, regardless of whether they intend to immigrate with you.
- Confirmation Number: It is absolutely essential to keep your unique confirmation number. This is the only way to check your status.
Important Reminders:
- Official Source: Always refer to the official U.S. Department of State website (dvprogram.state.gov) for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the Diversity Visa Program.
- Scams: Be very cautious of scam emails, letters, or websites that claim to be part of the DV lottery or demand payment. The U.S. government does not notify winners by mail or email, and the entry process is free.
There have been no significant new legislative changes to the Diversity Visa program itself that would impact DV-2027 eligibility or process beyond the overturning of the passport rule. However, as noted previously, the broader immigration policy landscape can always influence the overall experience for applicants.
