In mid-December 2025, the Trump administration delivered a seismic blow to one of America’s most unique immigration pathways: the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery. Directed by President Donald Trump and announced by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the program—often called the green card lottery—has been paused indefinitely.
For the thousands selected in the DV-2026 cycle, this suspension introduces profound uncertainty. Processing has ground to a halt, interviews are paused, and visa issuances frozen—just as the fiscal year window (October 2025 to September 2026) is underway. While no existing green cards are being revoked, the dreams of many current selectees hang in the balance.
This article breaks down the program’s mechanics, the reasons behind the suspension, its immediate and long-term impacts, and practical steps for affected applicants.
What Is the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery Program?
The DV Lottery, formally the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, was established by Congress in 1990 to promote immigration from countries with historically low rates of migration to the United States. It aims to diversify the immigrant population, countering the dominance of family- and employment-based pathways.
How the DV Lottery Works
Each year, the program makes approximately 50,000 to 55,000 immigrant visas available through a random selection process. Eligibility is limited to natives of qualifying countries (those with low U.S. immigration rates in recent years), and applicants must meet education or work experience requirements—typically a high school diploma or equivalent, or two years of qualifying work experience.
The process unfolds like this:
- Free online entry during a designated period.
- Random selection of winners (selectees).
- Submission of the DS-260 immigrant visa application.
- Consular interviews and rigorous security vetting.
- Visa issuance for those who pass, leading to green card status upon U.S. entry or adjustment.
Winners undergo the same background checks and admissibility standards as other immigrants.
What Does the Suspension Mean for DV-2026 Winners?
The pause has immediate, tangible consequences, though its full scope remains fluid as agencies implement directives.
Impact on Current Selectees and Processing
- U.S.-based applicants: USCIS has halted adjustments of status (green card applications for those already in the U.S.).
- Abroad applicants: The State Department has paused visa interviews and issuances at consulates.
- Many cases face delays that could extend beyond the September 30, 2026, deadline, potentially rendering opportunities lost forever, as DV entitlements expire at fiscal year-end.
Are Existing Green Cards or Visas Revoked?
No. The suspension does not affect those who already hold DV-issued green cards or have completed processing in prior years. Permanent residents retain their status.
What Happens to Future DV Lottery Cycles (DV-2027 and Beyond)?
Delayed or Canceled Registration
The DV-2027 entry period, typically opening in October, is now uncertain. The administration’s review of vetting procedures could lead to a prolonged or permanent pause.
Affected Countries and Applicants
The program primarily benefits nationals from Africa, Europe, and parts of Asia with low historical U.S. immigration.
What Should DV-2026 Winners Do Now?
Immediate Steps for Selected Applicants
- Regularly check official sources: dvprogram.state.gov for status and travel.state.gov or uscis.gov for updates.
- Prepare and gather supporting documents in advance.
- Avoid non-essential international travel if a case is pending, to prevent complications.
- Monitor the Visa Bulletin for any shifts in availability.
Alternatives and Legal Options
Many selectees may qualify for other pathways, such as family-sponsored, employment-based, or asylum routes. Consulting a qualified immigration attorney is crucial for personalized assessment.
Potential lawsuits challenging the suspension’s legality are likely, given the program’s statutory basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
No official permanent cancellation has been announced; it’s described as a pause for review. However, resumption remains uncertain.
Possibly, if processing resumes in time before September 30, 2026. Many cases are delayed, risking expiration.
No known revocations have been ordered for prior recipients.
No timeline provided; it depends on the administration’s security review.
Primarily those eligible due to low immigration rates, including much of Africa, Europe (e.g., Portugal), and Asia.
Past efforts focused on legislative reform or temporary COVID restrictions; this is an executive-directed processing halt tied to a specific incident.
Conclusion
The suspension of the Diversity Visa Lottery marks a pivotal shift in U.S. immigration policy, amplifying uncertainty amid broader enforcement priorities. For DV-2026 selectees, time is critical—the fiscal year clock is ticking.
Stay vigilant with official channels, explore alternative immigration options, and seek expert legal counsel tailored to your situation. At AKN Immigration, our experienced attorneys are closely monitoring developments and ready to guide you through these challenging times. Contact us today to review your case and protect your path forward.
