BIG NEWS FOR U.S. DIVERSITY GREEN CARD LOTTERY!
The 2027 Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery has not yet taken place this year. Recent updates reveal some important changes to the program. The U.S. Department of State has announced a final rule, effective April 10, 2026. The rule mandates all diversity green card lottery applicants to include a scan of a valid, unexpired passport information page with their electronic entry form.
This adjustment responds to widespread fraud involving “travel agencies” that claim to assist individuals in applying for the DV lottery. The inclusion of a passport scan aims to help curb these fraudulent activities and ensure the integrity of the program.
The DV lottery has been a vital pathway for individuals from countries with historically low immigration rates to the U.S. Its purpose is to diversify the immigrant population by offering a chance for legal permanent residency. Over the years, however, the rise of deceptive practices has led to these much-needed reforms.
What Are the Proposed Changes to the Diversity Green Card Lottery?
The U.S. Department of State has published a final rule to amend the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (“DV Program”). This will be effective April 10, 2026.
The rule’s sole amendment to the DV program requires applicants to include a scan of a valid, unexpired passport information as part of their electronic entry form. They must otherwise indicate that they are exempt from this requirement in order to properly submit a diversity lottery entry form. Registrants will need to upload a scan of the biographic and signature page(s) of their passport as part of the entry form. Additional amendments in the final rule impact the guidance and instructions for the DV Program. This includes replacing the term “gender” with “sex”, and replacing the term “age” with “date of birth” to accurately reflect the information collected.
Impact on the DV-2027 Program Start Date
The rule notes that these amendments will be implemented with the 2027 Diversity Visa (“DV-2027”) Program. The State Department has delayed the start of the DV-2027 program. It has not yet confirmed the start date for the registration period.
How Will These Changes Affect You?
With these new changes, it is crucial for potential applicants to stay informed. If you are ready to start legalizing in the U.S., Shepelsky Law Group is here to help. Our experienced team can guide you through the process and ensure your application is submitted correctly. Contact us today to make sure you don’t miss out on this important opportunity! Call us at (718) 769-6352 or book your consultation at shepelskylaw.cliogrow.com/book.