When Does the GreenCard Lottery DV-2027 Start?

The annual U.S. Green Card Lottery is a dream opportunity for thousands hoping to live and work in America. But in 2025, the upcoming DV-2027 round brings unusual uncertainty: the typical October start date has passed, and no official schedule has been released yet. This article explains the reasons for the delay, upcoming changes, and when registration is realistically expected to begin.

When Does the DV-2027 Lottery Begin and End?

As of now, there is no official start or end date for the GreenCard Lottery DV-2027. While in previous years, the registration typically opened on the first Wednesday in October and closed five weeks later in November, this year’s schedule remains completely open.

U.S. government agencies like the State Department have not released any timelines. Oc Oct 15th, 2025, the DoS confirmed, however, that DV-2027 will take place, even though the timeline remains unknown. Several indicators suggest that internal policy changes and new administrative rules are responsible for the delay. These include system upgrades and the introduction of a registration fee.

Notice: The registration for DV-2027 through The American Dream is open and will remain open! As soon as the DoS portal opens, we will submit our client´s applications via a secure server, securing your best chances without having to observe the deadlines yourself.

Reasons for the Delay: Shutdown, New Fee & Technical Adjustments

The delay of the DV-2027 Green Card Lottery is caused by several factors. In addition to the temporary U.S. government shutdown, a newly introduced registration fee and major IT system upgrades are impacting the launch schedule. Together, these changes explain why the process starts later than usual.

U.S. Government Shutdown: What It Means

A government shutdown occurs when the U.S. Congress fails to pass a federal budget. As a result, many public services either close or operate in a limited capacity — including those essential to the GreenCard Lottery: IT services, payment processing, policy publication, and software updates.

Even though the Diversity Visa Program is legally mandated, its digital systems and processes still rely on staff availability and federal funding.

New $1 Registration Fee (Effective October 2025)

As confirmed in the Federal Register, a $1 registration fee will be introduced for DV-2027. Unlike in previous years, where participation was free, this marks a new financial barrier that affects the application process itself. This seemingly small fee has major consequences:

• Payment systems must be integrated
• Application forms must be adapted
• Global infrastructure requires upgrades
• Security and fraud prevention need enhancement

All of this contributes to delays in launching the program.

Technical Implementation and System Changes

The U.S. government must now integrate secure payment processing systems into the existing GreenCard portal. This includes real-time verification, fraud detection, and redundancy protection.

Since even small glitches could invalidate thousands of applications, authorities are likely choosing caution over speed — a smart move, even if it means waiting longer.

Passport Requirement and Other Rule Changes – What to Expect

Another possible change is the reintroduction of mandatory passport data at the time of application — something already required in DV-2020 and DV-2021, before being struck down in court. Although the rule is fully drafted and ready for reimplementation, experts believe that passport requirements will most likely not apply to DV-2027 and instead be enforced from 2026 onwards.

Still, the uncertainty remains. Applicants should be prepared, but there is no official confirmation at this time.

Timeline, Deadlines & Scenarios

While no official start date has been announced yet, previous patterns and recent developments allow for reasonable estimates. This section outlines possible scenarios – from a November launch to a delay into early 2026 – and explains what applicants should do in the meantime.

When Could the Lottery Start?

Based on current information, The American Dream estimates that the earliest possible start date is sometime in November, 2025. However, it could easily be delayed to December or even next spring.

Once open, the registration window will last approximately 4–5 weeks, regardless of start date. The only certainty is that results will be published in May or June 2026, as usual. And that winners will be able to travel to the US with their green card during fiscal year 2027, which runs from October 2026 to November 2027!

Pro tip: Stay registered with The American Dream, and we’ll notify you and file your application the moment the system opens.

What the Uncertainty Means for Your Winning Chances

New Barriers, New Opportunities:

• Fewer participants expected: Even a small fee might deter some participants, especially from countries with lower incomes or poor internet access.
• Higher chances for prepared applicants: Fewer entries mean a statistically higher chance of winning, assuming the same visa quota.
• Shorter timeline increases risk: Applicants who wait too long or attempt last-minute submissions may face system errors or missed deadlines.
• System instability possible: New backend systems for payments and processing might experience delays or failures.

In short: Preparation pays off — those who act early have a clear advantage.

Why You’re in Safe Hands with The American Dream

For nearly 30 years, The American Dream has been the most trusted partner for all applicants to the U.S. GreenCard Lottery.

We offer:

• Real-time monitoring of official government sources
• Immediate response when the lottery starts
• We cover the $1 registration fee for our clients
• Correct and timely application filing – no matter the date
• Secure technical handling of all forms and requirements

Conclusion & Recommendations

The DV-2027 GreenCard Lottery will happen, but the start date is uncertain.

Delays are likely due to:

• New registration fee
• Technical changes
• Shutdown-related interruptions

Our best estimate: Applications will open after November 1, 2025, with a deadline likely in November or December. However, the exact timing is beyond anyone’s control.

Take action today: Register early with The American Dream.

We will monitor all updates, manage your paperwork, cover the new fee, and ensure your application is submitted perfectly and on time — no matter what happens.