October 2026
US Green Card Lottery: No Job Offer Needed
Last updated
What This Program Is
The Diversity Visa (DV) Program, often called the green card lottery, is a U.S. government program that runs every year. It makes up to 55,000 permanent resident visas available to people from countries that haven't sent many immigrants to the U.S. recently. It's one of the few paths to a U.S. green card that doesn't require a job offer, a family sponsor, or a large investment.
How It Works for You
Each year, the State Department opens a free online registration window, and the government selects winners at random from completed entries. For the 2027 program, a federal court has ordered the State Department to reopen registration by November 1, 2026, after it failed to open on its usual schedule. Even after winning, you still need to complete a standard visa interview and background checks before your green card is issued.
Who It's For
This program is built for people from eligible countries who meet a basic education or work-experience requirement but don't have another clear path to the U.S. It's a strong option if you want a real shot at a green card without needing an employer or a relative to sponsor you.
What are the benefits of the Diversity Visa Program?
If you're selected, you and your immediate family — your spouse and unmarried children under 21 — can all receive green cards together. This gives your whole family permanent U.S. residency with no employer, sponsor, or investment required.
What documents do I need?
You'll generally need a valid passport, a recent passport-style photo that meets official specifications, and proof that you meet the education or work-experience requirement. Always confirm the complete, current document list on the official State Department website before you register.
Check Your Diversity Visa Eligibility →
97 successful applicationsfor this program
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