The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, often called the Green Card Lottery, is one of the most popular ways to apply for U.S. permanent residency. Each year, around 55,000 immigrant visas are granted to applicants from countries with low immigration rates to the United States.
For the first time in the history of the program, the U.S. Department of State has introduced a $1 non-refundable registration fee. This new rule will take effect starting October 16, 2025, for the DV Lottery 2027 cycle. While the fee may seem symbolic, it carries significant implications for applicants worldwide.
This article explains everything you need to know about the $1 registration fee, how to apply for the DV Lottery 2027, and what countries are eligible.
What’s New in DV Lottery 2027?
From October 16, 2025, every applicant registering for the DV Lottery 2027 must pay a $1 online fee. This amount will be collected directly on the official DV Lottery website via a secure payment system.
It’s important to note:
- The $1 fee is only for registration.
- The separate $330 visa processing fee will still apply later if you are selected and move forward in the immigration process.
- The payment must be made online at the time of submitting your DV Lottery 2027 application form.
Why Did the U.S. Introduce the $1 Fee?
The U.S. government explained that the fee is not meant to generate profit but to make the process more transparent and secure. Here are the main reasons:
- Prevent Fraud and Duplicate Entries
Many fraudulent agents create duplicate or fake applications on behalf of unsuspecting applicants. The small fee helps filter out bulk submissions and encourages only genuine applicants. - Support System Upgrades
More than 25 million entries are submitted every year. The fee is expected to raise about $25 million annually, which will be used to upgrade servers, improve performance, and strengthen the lottery system. - Improve Security and Fairness
The funds will also enhance data security and verification processes, ensuring fair treatment of applicants worldwide.
How This Fee Affects Applicants
While $1 may seem very small, it could create some challenges in low-income regions where even small online payments are not always easy to make. However, U.S. officials believe that the benefits of reducing fraud and improving fairness outweigh these challenges.
For most applicants, the fee will be manageable, and since it must be paid directly through the official U.S. platform, it will also reduce the risk of being scammed by third parties.
DV Lottery 2027 Registration Start Date
The DV Lottery 2027 registration is expected to open on October 16, 2025, and run for about a month, closing in November 2025.
Applicants should carefully check the official U.S. Department of State DV Lottery website during this period, as late entries are not accepted.
DV Lottery 2027 Eligible Countries
The list of eligible countries for DV Lottery 2027 will remain similar to previous years. Generally, applicants from countries with low U.S. immigration rates can apply.
Countries usually not eligible include:
- India
- China (mainland)
- Mexico
- Canada
- Philippines
- South Korea
- Nigeria
- United Kingdom (except Northern Ireland)
Applicants from Africa, Eastern Europe, parts of Asia, and Latin America will mostly remain eligible. Always confirm the official DV Lottery 2027 eligible countries list when registration opens.
How to Apply for the DV Lottery 2027
If you’re interested in applying, here’s the step-by-step process:
- Visit the Official Website
Go only to the official U.S. Department of State DV Lottery website. Avoid third-party sites. - Fill Out the DV Lottery 2027 Application Form Online
Provide accurate personal information, education details, and passport data. - Upload Required Documents
- Valid passport details
- A recent digital passport-style photo that meets U.S. visa photo standards
- Pay the $1 Registration Fee
Complete the payment using the official secure payment gateway. - Submit and Save Confirmation
After submission, you will receive a confirmation number. Save it carefully, as it will be needed to check your result.
Preventing Fraud: Why the Fee Matters
The $1 registration fee is designed to protect genuine applicants. In many countries, fraudulent agents have been known to charge high unofficial fees or submit fake entries. By requiring a direct payment through the U.S. system, the lottery reduces the chances of manipulation and improves fairness.
Key Reminders for DV Lottery Applicants
- The $1 registration fee is non-refundable.
- Only apply once per year — duplicate applications will lead to disqualification.
- Always register on the official U.S. government website.
- Keep your confirmation number safe to check your selection results.
- Selected applicants will still need to pay the $330 visa processing fee later.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of the $1 registration fee for the DV Lottery 2027 marks an important change in the Green Card lottery system. While small, this fee will help improve fairness, reduce fraud, and upgrade the system for millions of applicants worldwide.
If you are planning to apply for the DV Lottery 2027, make sure you are prepared with your documents, understand the payment process, and avoid unofficial websites. With careful preparation, this could be your chance to achieve the American Dream.
