The 2026 Diversity Visa Lottery, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery, is now open, and participants have until November 5, 2024, to submit their entries. This annual lottery provides a unique opportunity for individuals from eligible countries to win a chance to apply for U.S. permanent residency. The U.S. government offers 55,000 green cards through this program each year, and the process is free for all applicants.
How the Diversity Visa Lottery Works
The Diversity Visa Lottery is designed to promote immigration from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States. Participants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being a native of an eligible country and having at least a high school education or two years of work experience in a qualifying occupation.
Key Dates and Details
The entry period for the 2026 Diversity Visa Lottery opened on October 4, 2024, and will close on November 5, 2024, at 12:00 PM EST. Winners will be selected randomly, and results will be available in May 2025. Successful applicants will be eligible to apply for a U.S. green card, granting them permanent residency.
How to Apply
To participate, applicants must submit their entry through the official U.S. Department of State website during the application period. It’s important to avoid fraudulent websites and services that charge fees, as the lottery process is entirely free.
What Happens Next?
After submitting their application, participants should retain their confirmation number, as it will be required to check the status of their entry once the results are announced in May 2025.
FAQ’s:
What is the Diversity Visa Lottery?
A program offering 55,000 U.S. green cards to applicants from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S.
When is the deadline to apply for the 2026 Visa Lottery?
November 5, 2024, at 12:00 PM EST.
How much does it cost to apply?
The application is free.
How are winners selected?
Winners are selected randomly through a computerized drawing.
What happens if I win?
Winners will be eligible to apply for U.S. permanent residency but must meet additional requirements during the visa application process.
