DV-2026 Lottery Results Updates! Countdown, Date and Local Time!

The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, also known as the Green Card Lottery, is a U.S. government program that provides an opportunity for individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the United States to apply for permanent residency. Every year, millions of people worldwide participate in this program in hopes of securing a future in the United States.

One of the most anticipated moments in the DV Lottery process is the release of the results. This article provides everything you need to know about the DV Lottery results, including the exact date and local time, how to check your status, and what to do after being selected.

1. What is the DV Lottery?

The Diversity Visa Lottery Program, administered by the U.S. Department of State, grants up to 55,000 immigrant visas annually. The selection process is random, but applicants must meet basic eligibility criteria, including education or work experience.

Eligible applicants from qualifying countries submit entries during the DV application period, usually held between October and November each year. The DV-2026 registration period opens on October 2, 2024, and closes on November 7, 2024 12:00 PM EST. Results are typically announced the following year in May.

2. DV Lottery Results 2025: Official Announcement Date

For the DV-2026 program, the U.S. Department of State has officially confirmed that the results will be available starting May 3, 2025.

This date marks the beginning of the status check period, during which applicants can find out if they were selected for further processing.

• 📅 DV-2025 Results Release Date: May 3, 2025

• 🌐 Official Website to Check: https://dvprogram.state.gov

3. DV Lottery Results Time by Local Time Zones

The results are typically released at 12:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). Since the DV Lottery is a global program, it’s crucial to know what time that corresponds to in your local region. Below are local time conversions for major regions:

4. How to Check DV Lottery Results

Checking your DV Lottery result is a simple process, but it’s important to follow the official method. There is no email or letter notification, you must check it yourself.

✅ Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Visit the official DV Lottery website: https://dvprogram.state.gov

2. Click on “Check Status”

3. Enter the following details:

   • Confirmation number (from your DV Lottery entry)

   • Last/Family name

   • Year of birth

   • Captcha code

4. Submit and view your result.

5. What If You Are Selected?

Being selected in the DV Lottery does not automatically guarantee a U.S. Green Card. It means you are eligible to apply for an immigrant visa, and must follow the next steps promptly.

📝 Next Steps After Selection:

• Complete the DS-260 form online.

• Prepare required documents (passport, birth certificate, police clearance, etc.)

• Attend a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

• Undergo a medical examination from an approved physician.

• If approved, receive your immigrant visa and travel to the U.S. within the given timeframe.

📌 Tip: Start this process immediately. The DV visas are limited, and processed on a first-come, first-served basis by case number.

6. What If You Are Not Selected?

If you are not selected, don’t lose hope. You can apply again for the next DV Lottery cycle. Also, explore other U.S. immigration options such as:

• Work-based visas (H-1B, L-1)

• Family-sponsored immigration

• Student visas (F-1)

• Asylum or refugee pathways

Stay informed by checking the Department of State’s website regularly.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Do not trust third-party websites or email messages claiming you won.

• ❌ Never pay anyone to check your result — the official check is free.

• ✅ Keep your confirmation number safe. You cannot check results without it.

• ✅ Be honest in all your application and interview steps.

8. FAQs About DV Lottery Results

🔹 Q: Can I check results by email or phone?

A: No. The only way to check is through the official site: https://dvprogram.state.gov.

🔹 Q: What if I lost my confirmation number?

A: You can retrieve it using the “Forgot Confirmation Number” feature on the results page.

🔹 Q: Is there a second draw or waiting list?

A: Sometimes, additional winners may be notified later in the year if selected applicants do not complete the process. Keep checking periodically.

9. Final Tips for DV Lottery Applicants

• 🔐 Secure your confirmation number: It’s your key to checking results.

• ⏱️ Be prompt: If selected, start the visa process without delay.

• 🔍 Stay informed: Follow only official government sources for updates.

• 💬 Seek professional help if needed, especially for form completion or interview prep.

Conclusion

The DV Lottery is a life-changing opportunity for thousands of individuals around the world. Knowing the exact date and local time for the release of results helps applicants prepare mentally and logistically. As the DV-2026 results are released on May 3, 2025 at 12:00 PM EDT, ensure you’re ready to check your status using your confirmation number. DV-2026 Entrants should keep their confirmation number until at least September 30, 2026.

Whether you’re selected or not, staying proactive, informed, and prepared is essential for your immigration journey. Best of luck!