U.S. Green Card Lottery 2026: Checking Your DV Status and Next Steps

The U.S. State Department announced the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery 2026 results on May 3, 2025. This guide explains how to check your status. It also explains what the DV Lottery is. Finally, it explains the steps to take if selected for a U.S. green card.

For those dreaming of a new life in the United States, today is significant. The U.S. Department of State has released the results of the Fiscal Year 2026 Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery. It is also known as the Green Card Lottery. If you participated, now is the time to check your status. See if your American dream is one step closer to becoming a reality.

Overview: Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery

The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, or Green Card Lottery, is a U.S. immigration program. It offers permanent residence to individuals from countries with historically low immigration rates to the United States. Up to 55,000 immigrant visas are available each year. Entrants must submit entries during a specific window.

For FY 2026, it was October 2 to November 7, 2024. Winners are chosen randomly by computer. Eligibility is based on country of origin. It is also based on meeting basic education or work experience requirements.

How to Check If You’ve Been Selected

• If you entered the DV-2026 lottery, check your result only through the official U.S. State Department website.
• Visit the Entrant Status Check.
• To check, you’ll need your confirmation number. You received it when you submitted your entry. Keep this number safe!
• You also need your last name as entered in your application.
• Finally, you need your date of birth. A randomly generated authentication code will appear on the website.

Important Note: The U.S. government does not send emails, letters, or phone calls to inform winners. Any such message is likely a scam. The Entrant Status Check is the only legitimate way to verify selection.

What Happens If You Are Selected?

If you see a “You have been selected” message, congratulations! Follow the instructions on the status check page. Prepare documents to apply for an immigrant visa or adjustment of status. You must act within fiscal year 2026. It runs from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026.

Begin preparing early. Securing the visa involves gathering documents. It also involves passing a background check. Finally, it involves attending a U.S. embassy or consulate interview.

What If You Are Not Selected?

If your entry was not chosen, the website will clearly say so. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to apply for a green card through the DV program this year. However, you can always try again in the next cycle, provided you’re still eligible.

Why the Green Card Lottery Matters

The DV Lottery (Green Card) is a cost-effective way to gain U.S. permanent residency. It has no sponsorship requirement. It is open to applicants from many underrepresented nations. It’s a golden opportunity for skilled individuals seeking a new life in America.

Final Thoughts

For DV-2026 entrants, May 3, 2025, could begin a life-changing journey. Be vigilant. Use only the official platform to check your status. If selected, start your application process early to avoid delays. Good luck to all the applicants worldwide!

The DV Lottery results are out! Check your status on the official website. If selected, prepare your documents and act fast. If not, you can try again next year. This lottery offers a chance at a new life in the U.S.