If you applied for the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery in late 2024, this post is for you! On May 3, 2025, at 12:00 PM EDT, DV-2026 entrants will be able to check their application status using the official Entrant Status Check (ESC) tool on the DV Lottery portal.
Key Dates and What They Mean
- Status Check Opens:
May 3, 2025 at 12:00 PM EDT – This is the moment you’ve been waiting for! Once the clock strikes noon EDT, you can log in to the ESC Tool on the DV Lottery portal to see your status. - Portal Availability:
The portal will remain open until at least September 30, 2026.
How to Prepare for the DV-2026 Results
1. Review the DV Lottery Status Check Guide
Before the results are released, make sure you understand the process. Our detailed DV Lottery Status Check Guide walks you through what to expect when you log in to the ESC Tool and how to interpret your results.
2. Complete the DS-260 Form
If you are selected, the next important step is to complete the DS-260 form. To help you with every detail, check out our Complete the DS-260 Form Step-by-Step Guide.
3. Understand the Medical Exam Requirements
A mandatory part of the process is the medical exam. Familiarize yourself with the requirements by reading our DV Lottery Medical Exam Requirements Guide.
4. Prepare Your Documents and Interview
Selection is just the beginning. Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready and are well-prepared for the interview. We’ve compiled a DV Lottery Document Checklist & Interview Preparation guide to ensure you don’t miss any important steps.
Final Thoughts
As a DV-2026 entrant, the upcoming status check is a major milestone on your journey to potentially obtaining a U.S. visa. By marking your calendar for May 3, 2025 at 12:00 PM EDT and utilizing the resources provided in this post, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the next steps of the process.
Stay informed, prepare ahead, and make sure you follow our guides for a smooth process.
Feel free to comment below if you have any questions or need further guidance. We’re here to support the DV Lottery community every step of the way!