The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery 2026 results have been officially released. If you applied between October 2 and November 7, 2024, you can now check your status and, if selected, begin your journey toward U.S. permanent residency. This article provides a comprehensive legal and procedural guide for selected applicants and outlines key steps for those who wish to try again in the future.
What Is the Diversity Visa Program?
The Diversity Visa Program, also known as the Green Card Lottery, is a U.S. government initiative aimed at increasing diversity among immigrants. Each year, 55,000 individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S. are randomly selected to apply for permanent residency. If chosen, applicants must go through an extensive legal process to obtain an immigrant visa.
How to Check DV Lottery 2026 Results
To find out whether you were selected, use the Entrant Status Check with the confirmation number received during registration. You’ll also need your last name and year of birth. No official emails, calls, or letters are sent by the U.S. government—this is the only method to check your status. If the page shows “You have been selected,” it means you may continue to the next steps in the process. If not, you are welcome to reapply in the next cycle.
Legal Steps After Selection
Being selected in the DV Lottery does not guarantee a visa. You must still meet all eligibility criteria, complete forms accurately, and pass interviews and background checks.
Step 1: Submit Form DS-260
The DS-260 form is an online immigrant visa application. It collects detailed information about your personal history, family, education, and travel. Accuracy is crucial; inconsistencies can lead to delays or denials.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
The next step involves compiling and organizing essential documents, which include:
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A valid passport
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Original birth certificate
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Police certificates from all countries lived in for more than six months since age 16
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Educational certificates or proof of qualifying work experience
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Two passport-sized photos
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Medical exam results from an authorized panel physician
All non-English documents must be translated and certified.
Step 3: Attend Visa Interview
After submitting the DS-260, you’ll receive instructions on how to schedule your interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. During this appointment, a consular officer will review your documents and assess your eligibility under U.S. immigration law.
Step 4: Final Visa Decision and Entry to the U.S.
If approved, you’ll receive an immigrant visa. You must enter the United States before the visa expiration date. Upon arrival, you will be processed as a lawful permanent resident and later receive your physical Green Card.
Important Legal Deadlines
The DV Lottery operates under strict legal deadlines. All selected applicants must receive their immigrant visa and enter the U.S. by September 30, 2026. After this date, no exceptions are allowed, even if administrative delays occur.
If You Were Not Selected
Not being selected is disappointing, but it does not disqualify you from trying again. The U.S. government allows new entries each year, typically in early October. You can reapply for the DV-2027 program as long as you meet eligibility requirements. The process remains free, fair, and random.
Eligibility Criteria Overview
To qualify for the Diversity Visa, selected applicants must meet legal requirements:
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Be a native of an eligible country (those with low recent immigration to the U.S.)
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Hold at least a high school diploma or have two years of experience in a qualifying occupation
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Be admissible to the U.S., meaning you pass background checks and medical exams
Applicants who do not meet these requirements will be denied the visa even if selected.
Common Scams to Avoid
Unfortunately, DV Lottery scams are widespread. Here are ways to protect yourself:
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The U.S. government does not charge a fee to enter the lottery
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No one can guarantee your selection
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Never share your confirmation number with strangers
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Do not respond to emails claiming you have been selected if they ask for money or personal information
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Always rely on official sources for updates