How to Check DV Lottery Results 2026: Key Dates, Steps, and What to Do Next

Every year, thousands of hopeful applicants around the world await the announcement of the DV lottery results. The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery offers a unique path to U.S. permanent residency, and the 2026 results are set to be released soon. This guide explains when and how to check your DV lottery results, what to expect, and what to do if you are a selectee.

When Are the 2026 DV Lottery Results Announced?

For the 2026 Diversity Visa Lottery, results will be published on the U.S. Department of State's official website starting at noon Eastern Time on May 3, 2025. This corresponds to 9:45 PM Nepali Time. According to ResearchGate's official guide on EDV results, applicants can enter their confirmation details on the official portal to see if they have been selected. Remember, the State Department will not send email notifications – checking online is the only way to view your status.

How to Check Your DV Lottery Results

Checking your DV lottery results is simple. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Entrant Status Check website maintained by the U.S. Department of State.
2. Enter your unique confirmation number, last name, and year of birth.
3. Submit your details to view your result.

Be prepared: due to high demand, the website might experience delays. Fragomen highlights that no direct notification is sent—you must check the website yourself. Results will remain accessible until at least September 30, 2026.

What to Do If You Are Selected

If you are among the lucky selectees when checking the DV lottery results, congratulations! You've earned the opportunity to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa for yourself and eligible family members. The application process will require submitting further documentation and attending an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. Be sure to:

• Read all instructions provided by the State Department carefully.
• Begin collecting required documents, such as passports and birth certificates, as soon as possible.
• Be alert to deadlines and appointment notifications.

Tips to Avoid DV Lottery Scams

With anticipation running high, scams often appear around the DV lottery results period. Be cautious:

• Only check your result at the official U.S. government website.
• Never pay to check your results—the application and results are always free.
• Watch out for emails or websites claiming you have won, especially if they ask for payment or personal information.

The Impact and Future of the DV Lottery

The Diversity Visa Lottery has provided tens of thousands of people, including a significant number from Nepal, with an opportunity to start new lives in the United States. However, the future of the program may change as policy debates continue in Congress. It's important to stay up to date by following trusted news sources and official announcements.

Final Thoughts

Checking the DV lottery results is a significant moment for millions of applicants worldwide. Ensure you visit the official U.S. Department of State website, follow all instructions, and keep your information secure. For full details about the timeline, application process, and statistics related to the DV lottery, consult Fragomen's DV lottery update or the detailed guide on ResearchGate.

If you are selected, act promptly and responsibly. If not, you can always try again next year. Good luck to all DV lottery participants!