The 2026 Diversity Visa Lottery (DV-2026), also known as the "Green Card Lottery," is open for registration. This U.S. government-instituted program offers over 50,000 immigrant visas to individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the United States. Applications are accepted electronically only at https://dvprogram.state.gov/ and the process is free. Any site charging a fee is not affiliated with the U.S. government.

Key Dates:
• Registration opens: Noon (EDT), October 2, 2024
• Registration closes: Noon (EST), November 5, 2024

Important Note:
• Be cautious of scammers posing as the U.S. government via fake emails, websites, or letters.
• Print and keep your confirmation page and code; it cannot be replaced.
• Starting May 3, 2025, use your confirmation code to check your entry status at https://dvprogram.state.gov/. Visa interview appointments will also be confirmed here.

For detailed entry information and FAQs, visit the DV-2026 instructions at https://dvprogram.state.gov/.

More information about permanent residence in the U.S. can also be found on the HIO website here: https://www.hio.harvard.edu/permanent-residence