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Green Card DV-2026 Lottery: Delay Continues, But New $1 Entry Fee Signals Big Change
The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery for Fiscal Year 2026 remains on hold as of October 2025, with the U.S. Department of State stating only that it will be announced “in the coming months” and “widely publicized.” While the delay has left millions of hopeful applicants around the world waiting anxiously, this period of uncertainty is also a crucial time to prepare.
Unlike past years, DV-2026 will introduce a new $1 entry fee, as confirmed by the State Department earlier this year. This is the first time the lottery will not be entirely free to enter. While the fee is nominal, its implementation reflects enhanced system upgrades and fraud prevention measures. All entrants will need a credit or debit card to pay this fee at the time of submission.
The DV lottery has faced delays before—in 2017, for example—but each time, the program ultimately launched and operated successfully. There’s every indication that the same will happen this year.
What Documents Should You Prepare Now?
Given that the DV-2026 window could open at any time, it is vital to prepare the required documentation in advance. Here is what applicants should have ready:
1. Valid Passport
Applicants must possess a valid, unexpired passport from their country of citizenship, unless they qualify for a passport exemption under specific U.S. immigration criteria. Passport details must be entered exactly as they appear.
2. Recent Digital Passport-Style Photo
The photo must meet strict U.S. visa photo requirements:
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Taken within the last six months
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Plain white or off-white background
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No glasses, uniforms, or head coverings (unless for religious purposes)
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Specific size and resolution (600×600 pixels)
3. Personal and Family Information
Applicants will need to provide:
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Full legal name
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Date and place of birth
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Gender
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Marital status
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Spouse’s information (if married)
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Information about all unmarried children under 21 years old, including legally adopted and stepchildren
4. Proof of Education or Work Experience
To qualify for a diversity visa, applicants must have either:
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A high school diploma (or its equivalent), OR
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Two years of work experience in the last five years in an occupation that requires at least two years of training or experience, as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor.
It is not necessary to upload diplomas or employment letters at the time of entry, but these documents will be required if selected for further processing.
Why Legal Guidance Matters Now More Than Ever
With a new fee, a delayed timeline, and intense global competition, accuracy and preparation are more important than ever. A single error—whether in a passport number, photo, or family details—can lead to immediate disqualification.
At Spar & Bernstein, our immigration attorneys are already assisting prospective applicants in preparing compliant, thorough submissions so that once the application window opens, they are ready to submit quickly and correctly. Our legal team also stays on top of all DV-related updates directly from the State Department, ensuring that our clients have accurate, real-time information.
Turn the Delay Into an Opportunity
Although there is no confirmed opening date for the DV-2026 lottery, the best way to improve your odds is to prepare early and seek trusted legal support. The new $1 entry fee is a minor cost but underscores the importance of following every detail in the application process.
When the Diversity Visa window opens—and it will—being prepared means you’ll be ready to act. At Spar & Bernstein, we are here to guide you from registration through to green card issuance.
