How to Apply.
A step-by-step walkthrough detailing how to prepare and submit your application for the Diversity Visa program.
Verify Your Eligibility
You must be born in an eligible country (countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S.). Additionally, you must meet the education requirement (at least a high school diploma or equivalent) or have two years of qualifying work experience.
Prepare Compliant Photo
Your photo must have been taken within the last 6 months. Use our Photo Crop Tool to adjust dimensions to 600x600 px and center your face completely offline before submitting.
Fill Out Online Registration
During the dates announced in the current official instructions, complete the Electronic Diversity Visa Entry Form on the official website. Ensure all biographical, passport, and family information is exact.
Official DV Portal →Diversity Visa Program Cycles
Keep track of current and future lottery windows. Keep in mind U.S. government immigration years operate on a forward schedule:
DV-2025 Cycle
Registration ran from October to November 2023. Consular processing and status checking completed on September 30, 2025.
DV-2026 Cycle
Registration ran from October 2, 2024 to November 7, 2024. Selection status checks are currently active through September 30, 2026.
DV-2027 Cycle
The Department of State has not announced the registration start date. Current rules require a $1 electronic registration fee and valid passport information plus a biographic/signature-page scan, subject to limited exemptions.