The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery for DV-2027 registration is expected to open in October 2026. With the DV-2026 program already underway — and facing uncertainty due to visa processing pauses and reduced visa issuance rates — prospective DV-2027 applicants should prepare early.
Expected Changes
Anticipated updates include stricter photo requirements (AI-based photo validation rejecting digitally altered images), updated country eligibility lists, and potentially reduced overall visa numbers. The DV-2026 program was already reduced to approximately 52,000 visas due to NACARA and NDAA requirements.
DV-2026 Status
DV-2026 selectees should monitor the Visa Bulletin for DV cutoff numbers, which have been advancing faster due to reduced overall visa issuance. All DV-2026 visas must be issued by September 30, 2026 — the DV lottery update page has the latest numbers.