NEW YORK : Starting October 16, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) will implement a new rule requiring a $1 electronic registration fee for all Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery applicants. This marks the first time participants must pay simply to enter the annual “green card lottery,” signaling a notable change for millions of hopeful immigrants around the world.
This new policy arrives just ahead of the registration period for the 2027 Diversity Visa Lottery, which is expected to open in early October (exact dates to be announced). Here’s what you need to know to stay prepared.
Key Details of the New Registration Fee
- $1 Registration Fee: Every entrant must pay $1 USD at the time of online registration on the official U.S. government website. Payment must be made through an authorized government portal.
- Non-Refundable: The fee will not be refunded, even if you are not selected or if you later decide not to apply for a visa.
- Application Fee Unchanged: The $330 DV application fee—paid only by selected applicants who proceed to the visa stage—remains the same.pix Shuttercock