The United States government has confirmed that interviews for successful foreign applicants in the Diversity Visa (DV) programme are scheduled to begin in October, providing a clear timeline for those progressing their Green Card applications.
In an official notice, the federal government reiterated that lottery selections are typically announced in May each year. Applicants who entered the programme can verify their status by visiting the official portal at dvprogram.state.gov and entering the required details.
Key Timeline for DV 2026 Applicants
According to the federal government, interviews for selected applicants are expected to commence in October. Those who log in and discover they have been selected will receive further instructions on the next steps directly through the portal.
The notice stated: "If you have been selected, you will see further instructions about the next step. We anticipate that interviews will begin in October."
The Diversity Visa Programme, commonly known as the Green Card lottery, is a United States government initiative that makes up to 55,000 immigrant visas available annually to nationals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the US. The programme is administered by the US Department of State.
What Selected Applicants Should Do Next
Being selected in the lottery does not guarantee a visa. Selectees must complete the full application process, which includes submitting required documentation and attending an in-person interview at a US embassy or consulate. Only those who meet all eligibility requirements and pass the interview stage receive their immigrant visa.
The October interview window is significant for applicants who have already confirmed their selection, as it provides a clear deadline to gather supporting documents, complete medical examinations, and prepare for their consular appointments in advance.
In a similar story, Legit.ng published that the United States of America shared key figures and the next steps for the winners of the 2026 Green Card lottery.
African Countries Selected for Green Card Lottery
Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the US Green Card Lottery published the full list of African countries selected for the 2026 Diversity Visa Programme. As nations like Egypt, Algeria, and Kenya lead in the number of selectees, the urgency for applicants to secure their visas before the September 30, 2026 deadline adds a sense of hope and desperation for many seeking a new life in the United States.
