The Diversity Visa (DV) Program, often known as the Green Card Lottery, is one of the most anticipated immigration opportunities in the world. It provides a pathway to permanent residency for individuals from countries with historically low immigration rates to the United States. Every year, millions apply, but only a limited number are selected—and even fewer ultimately receive visas.
As of this update, the DV-2025 Program has officially ended. By law, all selectees were required to complete their visa processing before the end of the fiscal year, which ran from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025. With the fiscal year now closed, no additional Diversity Visas may be issued for 2025.
In this article, Ranchod Law Group explains what this means for DV-2025 selectees, what applicants can expect for future Diversity Visa programs, and how individuals seeking permanent residence can explore alternative immigration pathways.
WHAT THE DIVERSITY VISA (DV) PROGRAM IS
The Diversity Visa Program was established to encourage immigration from countries that historically have low levels of immigration to the United States. Each year, up to 55,000 visas are made available to eligible applicants, as adjusted under the Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) and subsequent amendments, including Section 5104 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024.
Eligible applicants are chosen at random through an official computerized lottery system managed by the U.S. Department of State. Winning the lottery does not automatically grant a visa; rather, it provides an opportunity to apply for one. Applicants must still meet all eligibility, background, and admissibility requirements before being issued an immigrant visa.
DV-2025 PROGRAM: WHAT HAPPENED THIS YEAR
The DV-2025 Program officially opened in October 2023, allowing applicants from qualifying countries to submit entries online. Millions entered the lottery, and results were announced in May 2024. Those who were “selected” were eligible to apply for their visas and complete processing between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025.
However, as stated in the official program instructions, selection does not guarantee a visa. Selection only means that the applicant may be eligible to participate and can begin the visa process. Each year, the U.S. government selects more individuals than there are visas available, knowing that many applicants will not qualify, fail to complete documentation, or choose not to continue.
As the 2025 fiscal year has now ended, the issuance of Diversity Visas for that year is complete. Selectees who did not receive their visas before September 30, 2025, are no longer eligible to obtain them under U.S. law.
WHY SELECTION DOES NOT GUARANTEE A VISA
Every year, more than 10 million people apply for the DV lottery, but only about 55,000 visas can be issued. The over-selection process ensures that all visas are used, even if some applicants are found ineligible or fail to follow through. Unfortunately, this also means that many individuals who receive a selection notice will never receive an interview or visa approval.
Applicants are often disqualified for failing to meet eligibility requirements—such as education, work experience, or country of origin—or for missing documentation deadlines. Some selectees never move forward because of difficulties scheduling interviews at U.S. embassies or consulates, especially in countries with high demand and limited appointment availability.
HOW THE DV-2025 PROGRAM DIFFERED FROM PRIOR YEARS
The DV-2025 cycle operated under the same general framework as prior programs, but with several important clarifications under NACARA and the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024. The total number of visas available remained capped at approximately 55,000, with slight adjustments each year based on unused categories and other visa allocations.
The selection process also continued to emphasize diversity by excluding nationals from countries with high recent immigration levels to the U.S. This ensures that the Diversity Visa program continues to live up to its name—promoting a wide range of nationalities and backgrounds among new immigrants.
DEADLINES AND FINALITY: WHY SEPTEMBER 30 MATTERS
The law governing the Diversity Visa Program is very clear: all processing for the fiscal year must be completed by midnight on September 30 of that year. Once the fiscal year ends, no Diversity Visas can be issued, even if the applicant was previously selected or had an interview pending.
This rule has been upheld repeatedly by U.S. federal courts. For DV-2025, that deadline fell on September 30, 2025, marking the official end of all visa processing for that cycle. Selectees who did not complete their cases by that date lose eligibility permanently and must wait for a future lottery if they still wish to immigrate through this pathway.
LOOKING AHEAD: DV-2026 PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS
The next cycle, DV-2026, is expected to follow similar eligibility and application guidelines. The entry period typically opens in early October 2025, with results announced the following spring. Those selected will then have the opportunity to apply for their visas between October 1, 2026, and September 30, 2027.
Applicants should only apply through the official U.S. Department of State website (dvprogram.state.gov) and avoid fraudulent websites that claim to increase chances of selection or request payment to submit entries. The application is free, and winners are chosen randomly.
Ranchod Law Group encourages potential applicants to carefully review the eligibility criteria before applying. Applicants must be from an eligible country and meet education or work experience requirements equivalent to at least a high school diploma or two years of qualifying work experience.
ALTERNATIVE PATHWAYS TO U.S. IMMIGRATION
For those who were not selected—or who missed out on completing their DV-2025 cases—there are still many other ways to pursue permanent residency in the United States. Ranchod Law Group assists clients in exploring all available legal options, which may include:
1. Family-Based Immigration: U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can petition for certain family members, including spouses, children, and parents.
2. Employment-Based Immigration: Professionals with specialized skills, advanced degrees, or job offers from U.S. employers may qualify for employment visas or green cards.
3. Waivers and Humanitarian Relief: Individuals facing hardship, persecution, or inadmissibility issues may qualify for waivers, asylum, or other humanitarian protections.
4. Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: Some applicants already in the U.S. may be eligible to adjust their status without leaving the country, while others can complete their visa processing abroad.
While the Diversity Visa Program is unique, it is not the only doorway to lawful permanent residency. An experienced immigration attorney can evaluate your personal history, background, and goals to identify the best path forward.
HOW RANCHOD LAW GROUP CAN HELP
The attorneys at Ranchod Law Group have decades of experience helping clients navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law. From family-based petitions to employment visas and waivers, we provide high-quality, personalized legal services designed to meet your individual circumstances.
We understand that immigration is more than paperwork—it is about securing your future and the future of your family. Whether you are exploring new options after the close of the DV-2025 Program or preparing for DV-2026, we can help you plan strategically, avoid mistakes, and stay informed about policy updates.
Our team values loyalty, reliability, and adaptability, ensuring that each client receives consistent communication, individualized guidance, and advocacy that reflects our commitment to excellence.
CONCLUSION: THE DV-2025 PROGRAM ENDS, BUT YOUR IMMIGRATION JOURNEY CONTINUES
The closure of the DV-2025 Program marks the end of one chapter—but not the end of opportunity. Immigration law continues to evolve, and new programs and pathways emerge every year. Whether through the next Diversity Visa lottery, a family-based petition, or another legal route, the chance to build a life in the United States remains possible.
At Ranchod Law Group, we are dedicated to helping you find that path. If you were a DV-2025 selectee or plan to apply for DV-2026, contact us today to discuss your options and take proactive steps toward achieving your American dream.