The United States government has announced major updates to the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (DV Lottery) that will take effect beginning with the DV-2027 program.
These changes were introduced by the U.S. Department of State to strengthen identity verification, reduce fraud, and improve the integrity of the Diversity Visa system.
The new regulations were published in the Federal Register and will officially take effect on April 10, 2026.
- Mandatory Passport Requirement for DV-2027 Applicants
One of the biggest changes is that applicants must now provide passport details and upload a passport scan when submitting their lottery entry.
Starting with the DV-2027 program, applicants must:
• Provide passport number
• Indicate country of passport issuance
• Enter the passport expiration date
• Upload a clear scan of the passport biographic page (photo page)
Applicants without a valid passport at the time of application may have their entries disqualified, except in limited exemption cases such as stateless individuals or those unable to obtain passports due to government restrictions.
Official source:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-program.html
- Introduction of a $1 DV Lottery Registration Fee
Another major update is that the DV Lottery is no longer completely free.
Beginning with DV-2027:
• Every applicant must pay a $1 electronic registration fee when submitting the entry form DS-5501.
• The fee must be paid online through a U.S. government payment platform.
• No fee waivers are available.
The U.S. Department of State introduced this small fee to help cover operational costs and reduce mass fraudulent entries submitted by automated systems or dishonest agents.
Official Federal Register rule:
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/03/11/2026-04737/visas-enhancing-vetting-and-combatting-fraud-in-the-diversity-immigrant-visa-program
- Why the U.S. Government Introduced These Changes
The U.S. government identified large-scale fraud in the DV program, with millions of suspicious applications submitted each year.
For example:
• Over 2.5 million fraudulent entries were identified in a recent lottery cycle.
• Some fraudulent agents submitted applications without applicants’ consent.
• Others created multiple entries to manipulate the lottery system.
By requiring a passport scan and a small registration fee, authorities expect to:
• Strengthen identity verification
• Prevent unauthorized applications
• Reduce duplicate and fraudulent entries
• Improve the security of the program
These measures are intended to protect genuine applicants worldwide. 
- Other Regulatory Updates
The new rule also introduces several language updates in immigration regulations:
• Replace “gender” with “sex”
• Replace “age” with “date of birth”
• Add the term “shall” to clarify legal instructions for visa officers
These changes aim to improve regulatory clarity and consistency in U.S. immigration procedures. 
- When the New Rule Takes Effect
The updated regulations will apply as follows:
• Rule Effective Date: April 10, 2026
• Program Affected: DV-2027 Diversity Visa Lottery
• Visa Program Year: October 2026 – September 2027
The registration period for DV-2027 is expected to open later, and applicants should monitor the official U.S. government portal for announcements.
Official DV Lottery portal:
https://dvprogram.state.gov
What This Means for DV Lottery Applicants
If you plan to apply for the DV Lottery, it is important to prepare early.
Applicants should:
• Obtain a valid passport before the registration period opens
• Prepare a passport scan and passport information
• Budget for the $1 DV Lottery entry fee
• Submit the application only through the official government website
Avoid agents who promise guaranteed selection or charge excessive fees, as the DV Lottery is random and cannot be influenced.
Contact Us for DV Lottery Application Guidance
If you need assistance with DV Lottery applications, U.S. visas, or immigration guidance, our team can help ensure your application is completed correctly.
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Your trusted partner for global travel and immigration opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is the DV Lottery still free?
No. Starting with DV-2027, applicants must pay a $1 registration fee when submitting the entry form online. 
- Do I need a passport to apply for DV-2027?
Yes. Applicants must provide passport details and upload a passport scan when submitting their application, except in rare exemption cases. 
- When will DV-2027 applications open?
The exact date has not yet been announced. However, DV Lottery registration usually opens between October and November each year.
Applicants should check the official website:
https://dvprogram.state.gov
- How many visas are issued through the DV Lottery?
The U.S. government provides approximately 55,000 diversity immigrant visas every year through the program. 
- Can an agent guarantee that I will win the DV Lottery?
No. The DV Lottery selection is completely random, and no agent or consultant can guarantee success