🌍 Citizenship / NaturalizationSuspended🇺🇸 United States
Diversity Visa
A lawful lottery-based program, but in the April 2026 snapshot it is affected by a visa-issuance pause under updated guidance.
Processing time
6-18 months
Approximate cost
$680
Snapshot
Apr 10, 2026
Last verified
Apr 10, 2026
Eligibility
- Meet the DV program conditions for the relevant cycle.
- Register only during the official entry period.
- Comply with passport and accuracy requirements under the latest rules.
The State Department published updated guidance indicating a pause in DV visa issuance during an ongoing review, and a final rule dated March 11, 2026 tightened integrity and anti-fraud requirements.
Nationality-Specific Rules
DZpaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
EGpaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
IQpaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
JOpaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
KWpaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
LBpaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
LYpaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
MApaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
SDpaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
SYpaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
TNpaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
YEpaused
DV visa issuance is paused under the updated guidance.
Effective: Dec 23, 2025
Application Steps
1
Register during the official period
Enter only during the official State Department registration window.
Estimated duration: 1 weeks
2
Follow results and instructions
If selected, follow official instructions only and do not rely on intermediaries.
Estimated duration: 4 weeks
3
Check issuance status
In the 2026 snapshot you must confirm the issuance pause status before assuming the visa can be issued.
Estimated duration: 2 weeks
Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Official application form
- Photos or biometrics as required
- Identity and civil status documents
- Original entry information
- Passport details where applicable
- Later civil and financial documents
Application Channels
U.S. Department of State
U.S. Department of State
Timing Notes
Timing is shaped by annual DV operations and the state of consular issuance.
Relevant effective date: Dec 23, 2025
Risk Controls
- Use official portals only and avoid paying unverified intermediaries.
- Separate fixed government fees from proof-of-funds or income requirements.
- Prepare civil and police documents with translation and legalisation where needed before filing.
- Use only the official DV page and do not share details with non-government sites.