2026 DV lottery registration program - Application Guide
Complete step-by-step guide to applying for the 2026 Diversity Visa Program
Entry Period: October 2, 2024 - November 7, 2024 | Results: May 2025
Application Process Overview
1. Preparation
- Gather required documents
- Prepare compliant photos
- Collect family information
2. Submit Entry
- Complete online form at dvprogram.state.gov
- Double-check all information
- Submit only ONE application
3. Follow Up
- Save confirmation number securely
- Check results in May 2025
- Prepare for next steps if selected
Required Information
Personal Information
- 1 Full name (exactly as in passport)
- 2 Date and place of birth
- 3 Gender and marital status
- 4 Current mailing address
- 5 Country of eligibility
Family Details
- 1 Spouse's full information (if married)
- 2 All children's details (under 21, unmarried)
- 3 Parents' birth countries (for chargeability)
- 4 Previous U.S. immigration history
Education/Work
Education Details:
- 1 Highest level completed ( Mini 12th std)
- 2 Institution names/locations (required only when you won DV)
- 3 Dates of attendance (required only when you won DV)
- 4 Degrees/certificates earned (required only when you won DV)
Work Experience:
- 5 Current occupation
- 6 Detailed work history (if qualifying through work)
Photo Requirements
Technical Specifications
- Size: 600x600 to 1200x1200 pixels
- Format: JPEG (.jpg, .jpeg)
- File size: Maximum 240 KB
- Color depth: 24-bit color
- Background: Plain white or off-white
- Recency: Taken within last 6 months
Composition Requirements
- Direct frontal face view (no angles)
- Neutral facial expression (no smiling)
- Both eyes open and clearly visible
- No glasses or head coverings (except religious)
- Even lighting with no shadows
- No photo editing or filters
Do's
- ✓ Submit only ONE application
- ✓ Use recent, high-quality photos
- ✓ Complete ALL required fields
- ✓ Keep confirmation number safe
Don'ts
- ✗ Don't submit multiple entries
- ✗ Don't use old photos
- ✗ Don't pay anyone to submit
- ✗ Don't use photo filters
Official Resources
Important Links
Technical Requirements
- Stable Internet connection required
- Updated web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge recommended)
- JavaScript must be enabled
- PDF reader for instructions (Adobe Acrobat recommended)
Information based on official DV-2026 instructions. Requirements and dates may vary for future programs. Always verify current information on the official U.S. Department of State website at travel.state.gov.
This is not an official U.S. government website. We provide informational resources about the Diversity Visa Program.