State Department Puts a Price Tag on the Diversity Visa Lottery—One Dollar

The State Department has instituted a new rule for the Diversity Visa (DV) lottery: a $1 registration fee. Starting September 16, 2025, every hopeful entrant must pay the token charge at the time of registration.

Why the change? Officials say it’s about fairness—shifting the cost burden from the small group of winners to everyone who throws their name in the hat. Winners who advance in the process will still face the standard $330 visa application fee, but now even the long-shot dreamers must chip in. Payments will be processed through a secure government portal during registration, and applicants are urged to remain alert to scams, as the official U.S. government website is the only legitimate payment channel.

It’s a small fee with a big message: even the lottery of American opportunity has a cover charge.

This is posting is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice. If you require further assistance or advice relating to the above, please contact our Partner, Catherine Betancourt at catherine@flynnhodkinson.com.