DV-2026 Lottery Application Guide
Complete guide to applying for the 2026 Diversity Visa Program
Key Dates:Entry Period: October 2, 2024 - November 7, 2024 | Results Available: May, 2025
Application Process Overview
1
Preparation
Gather documents, prepare photos, and collect family information
2
Submit Entry
Complete online form at dvprogram.state.gov
3
Follow Up
Save confirmation number and check results in May
Required Information
Use EXACTLY as shown in passport:
- • Full legal name (including all given names)
- • Date of birth (in correct format)
- • Place of birth (city, state/province, country)
- • Current mailing address (complete and accurate)
- • Passport details (number, expiration date, country)
- • Recent photograph (meeting all requirements)
Photo Requirements
Technical Specifications
- • Size: 600x600 to 1200x1200 pixels
- • Format: JPEG (.jpg, .jpeg)
- • Maximum file size: 240 KB
- • Color depth: 24-bit color
- • Background: Plain white or off-white
- • Taken within last 6 months
Composition Requirements
- • Direct face view
- • Neutral expression
- • Both eyes open
- • No glasses or head covering
- • Even lighting, no shadows
- • No photo editing or filters
Critical Do's and Don'ts
Do's
- ✓ Submit only ONE application
- ✓ Use recent, high-quality photos
- ✓ Complete ALL required fields
- ✓ Keep confirmation number safe
- ✓ Use legal names exactly as in passport
Don'ts
- ✗ Don't submit multiple entries
- ✗ Don't use old photos
- ✗ Don't pay anyone to submit your entry
- ✗ Don't use photo filters
- ✗ Don't wait until the last minute
Official Resources
Important Links
Technical Requirements
- • Stable internet connection
- • Updated web browser
- • JavaScript enabled
- • PDF reader for instructions
Information based on official DV-2026 instructions. Requirements and dates may vary for future programs. Always verify current information on the official Department of State website.