The United States Department of State has initiated the application period for the 2026 Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, which commenced on October 2, 2024 and will remain open until November 5, 2024.
This initiative is designed to distribute up to 55,000 Diversity Visas, thereby enhancing immigrant diversity in the United States by offering opportunities to individuals from nations with historically low rates of immigration.
To be eligible for participation in the DV program, applicants must meet certain criteria.
These criteria include citizenship from designated qualifying countries and adherence to educational or professional standards.
The educational requirement necessitates the completion of a formal education program lasting 12 years or its equivalent.
Alternatively, candidates may qualify by possessing a minimum of two years of work experience in a profession that necessitates at least two years of specialized training.
How to apply
Those intending to apply for the programme were advised to visit the program website; https://dvprogram.state.gov/.
Note, all applications are required to be submitted via the Electronic Diversity Visa Programme utilizing the specified Entry Form.
Applicants are obligated to furnish detailed personal and educational information, along with photographs that adhere to stringent specifications.
These photographs must be recent (taken within the last six months), in color, sharply focused, and set against a plain white or off-white background.
Additionally, the images should portray a neutral expression with both eyes open, and must not include uniforms (except for religious attire) or accessories such as headphones or eyeglasses.
Upon successful submission, applicants will receive an important confirmation notice that includes a unique identification number, which must be retained.
The selection process utilizes a computer-generated randomization system to identify successful applicants. Those selected will need to fulfill additional requirements and procedures.
While the initial registration is free of charge, candidates chosen for interviews are required to pay a visa application fee prior to the commencement of formal processing.