DV Lottery 2026: How to Check Results and Avoid Scams
- May 3, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: May 7, 2025
The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity for eligible applicants to apply for U.S. permanent residency. If you entered the lottery, here’s how to check your results starting May 3, 2025, and protect yourself from scams.
How to Check Your DV Lottery 2026 Status
When to Check:
Results become available at 12:00 PM ET on May 3, 2025.
Steps to Verify Your Entry:
Visit the official DV Lottery website: https://dvprogram.state.gov.
Enter your:
Confirmation number (from your 2026 entry).
Last name and date of birth.
Authentication code (generated on the site).
⚠️ Important Notes:
The U.S. State Department does NOT notify winners via email, mail, or phone.
Beware of website crashes due to high traffic. Try off-peak hours if the site is slow.
What If You’re Selected?
If your DV-2026 entry is drawn as a winner:
Use the guidelines on the Entrant Status Check portal to submit your visa application.
Submit your application between October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026.
Up to 55,000 visas are available, but selection doesn’t guarantee approval. Act quickly!
Not Selected?
The portal will clearly state if your entry wasn’t chosen. No appeals are allowed.
How to Avoid DV Lottery Scams
Fraudsters often target applicants with these tactics:
🚨 Fake websites mimicking the official portal.
📧Fraudulent emails asserting that you've "won" a lottery prize.
💸 Fees for “guaranteed” visas or fake registrations.
Protect Yourself:
✅ Only use the official site: https://dvprogram.state.gov.
✅ Ignore unsolicited messages about winning.
✅Legitimate lotteries will never ask you to pay for registration or "priority access.
✅ Report scams to the FTC or State Department.
Key Dates for DV Lottery 2026
Event | Date |
Entry Period | Oct 2, 2024 – Nov 7, 2024 |
Results Available | May 3, 2025 (12 PM ET) |
Visa Application Window | Oct 1, 2025 – Sep 30, 2026 |
Final Tips for Success
Double-check all application details for accuracy.
Seek reputable legal advice if unsure about the process.
Stay updated via the State Department’s DV page.
Need Help?
Bookmark this guide and share it with fellow applicants to spread awareness and combat fraud!
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