Kathmandu: The U.S. State Department has officially launched the application period for the 2026 Diversity Visa (DV) program. Applications will be accepted from noon Eastern Standard Time (EST) on October 2, 2024 (9:45 PM local time in Nepal, Ashwin 16, 2081 B.S.) until noon EST on November 5, 2024 (10:45 PM local time, Kartik 20, 2081 B.S.).
Interested individuals are encouraged to apply early to avoid potential technical issues as the deadline approaches. Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official DV program website during the registration period, and there is no fee required to apply, according to the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu.
The U.S. Embassy advises applicants to complete their entries without relying on consultants, recommending assistance only from trusted family members or friends. Applicants are solely responsible for the accuracy of their submissions. Each individual is permitted to submit only one application; multiple entries will lead to automatic disqualification.
Additionally, all applicants must include their spouse and all unmarried children under the age of 21, including stepchildren and adopted children, in their applications. Submissions lacking required family members will be deemed invalid.
Applicants are required to provide a recent photograph with their entry. Photos reused from previous years or those that do not meet the specified requirements will result in disqualification. Notably, glasses are not permitted in the photo.
Unlike previous years, a valid passport is not required at the time of DV entry for the 2026 program.
After submitting their applications, candidates should print and save their confirmation number, which is essential for checking the status of their entry. Starting on May 3, 2025 (Baisakh 20, 2082 B.S.), applicants can verify if they have been selected by entering their confirmation number on the official website. It is important to note that no email notifications will be sent to selected applicants, making it crucial to keep the confirmation number secure.
Selection in the lottery does not guarantee a visa; selected applicants will be invited for an interview where a consular officer will evaluate their qualifications under U.S. immigration law.