Every year, hopeful applicants around the world wait for the registration window for the DV (Diversity Visa) Lottery — often called the Green Card Lottery — to open in early October. For the 2027 cycle (often referred to as “DV-2027”), something unusual happened: the U.S. U.S. Department of State (DOS) did not announce the entry period on schedule.
So if you’re among those watching and wondering why the delay, here’s a breakdown of what we know so far, what might be causing it, and what it means for applicants.
What should have happened & what’s different this year
- In past years, for example for the DV‑2026 Program, the registration period opened early October and closed early November. Diversity Visa Program+2Travel.gov+2
- For DV-2027, multiple media sources report that DOS has confirmed a delay in the opening of registration. Reddit+3NEPYORK+3NEPYORK+3
- The official dates for entry have not yet been announced (as of our current date), even though many prospective applicants expect the window to open any time now. NEPYORK+2Ukraine Task Force+2
Potential reasons for the delay
Here are the main factors likely driving the delay, based on official commentary + expert/analyst speculation:
1. New registration fee
- A big change: DOS published a final rule on September 16, 2025 establishing a US$1 electronic registration fee for the lottery. NEPYORK+2The Law Offices of Anne Z. Sedki, LLC+2
- While DOS has not confirmed that the fee is the reason for the delay, many immigration attorneys and commentators believe that building the payment-processing system globally may be the source of the hold-up. NEPYORK+1
- The intent of the fee: “more fairly allocate the costs of managing the random selection process to those who register … reduce speculative registrations” (per DOS) NEPYORK+1
2. Technical / system implementation issues
- When you introduce something new (global payment portal, new process, new fee), the backend/IT side often needs extra time.
- Experts note that the DV programme has experienced entry-period delays in prior years due to “technical reasons”. NEPYORK+1
3. Regulatory / rule-making / procedural issues
- Besides the fee, other changes might be in play: for example, proposals to require a valid passport scan for applicants. Jeelani Law Firm, PLC
- These rule changes must follow administrative procedure (notice, comment, etc), and that can delay the announcement or opening.
- The timing of publishing dates in the Federal Register and updating official guidance may be slower than usual.
4. Possibly external or political factors
- While not confirmed, some speculate that other factors (budget, staffing, competing priorities, government operations) may play a role. For example, the DOS spokesperson declined to say whether a government shutdown influenced the date. NEPYORK+1
- Some forum users speculate uncertainty and internal timing issues within DOS. Rajiv Khanna Immigration Forums
Why this matters for applicants
Because of the delay, applicants should be aware of a few things:
- Don’t assume “early October” as in past years without checking the official site. The date could shift.
- Stay updated: monitor the official DV site (e.g., travel.state.gov) for the announcement. Sources say DOS will publish the dates “when available”. NEPYORK
- Prepare ahead: even if you don’t know the exact date, you can get your documents ready (photo, passport, etc) so when the window opens you’re ready to submit.
- Beware scams: With increased attention and uncertainty, scam websites may surface. Especially with the new $1 fee – ensure you only pay via the official government portal. The Law Offices of Anne Z. Sedki, LLC+1
- Don’t panic: The program has not been cancelled — it’s simply delayed. Many stakeholders confirm it will go ahead.