How to Check Your Green Card Lottery Results for 2026: A Complete Guide
Every year, millions of hopeful applicants eagerly await the green card lottery results. Also known as the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, the program offers a path to U.S. permanent residency for individuals from countries with historically low immigration rates. If you entered the 2026 lottery, here's everything you need to know about results, timelines, and what happens next.
When Are the 2026 Green Card Lottery Results Released?
The U.S. State Department will release the green card lottery results for DV-2026 on May 3, 2025. Starting at 12 p.m. EST, entrants can check their selection status online.
It's important to note that results are not sent by email or mail—you must check the official website yourself. Details about the release and the process can be found in this update from Fragomen, a reputable immigration law firm.
How to Check Your Green Card Lottery Results
Checking your green card lottery results is simple but must be done carefully to avoid scams. Follow these steps:
- Go to the official DV Entrant Status Check website.
- Enter your confirmation number, last name, and birth year.
- View your status—if selected, you will receive instructions on the next steps.
Remember, no other website or email can notify you of your selection. For Nepalese applicants and others, this ResearchGate resource provides a detailed breakdown on dates and what to prepare for the announcement.
Who is Eligible for the DV-2026 Program?
The Diversity Visa program makes 55,000 immigrant visas available each year to applicants worldwide, apart from countries with high immigration to the U.S. In the 2025 lottery, almost 20 million people applied. The largest groups of winners often come from countries such as Algeria, Egypt, Kenya, and Ethiopia. To qualify, applicants must have at least a high school education or two years of recent qualifying work experience. Check out Mshale's in-depth report for details on eligibility and winning statistics.
What Happens if You Win the Green Card Lottery?
If your entry is selected in the green card lottery results, you are eligible to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa starting October 1, 2025. You'll need to complete an application and attend a visa interview. Winning does not guarantee a green card—selected applicants must still pass background checks and meet all requirements.
Keep in mind that all further communication and status updates will be available only through the official entrant status check, so remain alert and vigilant against scams. Selected applicants must complete their visa process by September 30, 2026.
Tips for Green Card Lottery Entrants
- Only trust the official U.S. State Department website for results.
- Beware of emails or phone calls claiming you have won the lottery.
- Prepare required documents in advance if you are a winner.
- Learn more about the process from reputable sources like Fragomen and Mshale.
Conclusion
The release of green card lottery results marks a life-changing opportunity for thousands of people worldwide. By following the official procedures and staying informed through trusted resources, you can confidently check your status and take the next steps towards your American dream. Good luck to all entrants of DV-2026!