BREAKING: The U.S. State Department has just announced a significant change to the Diversity Visa lottery program, proposing a new registration fee of $1 for applicants. Currently, only successful lottery entrants pay fees, but this shift marks a potential barrier for many seeking green cards.
This urgent update comes amidst ongoing changes to U.S. immigration policy under President Donald Trump, who has focused on reducing both legal and illegal immigration since his second term began. The Diversity Visa program, established in 1990, allows for 55,000 visas to be awarded each year, targeting applicants from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S.
The proposed fee aims to share the costs of administering the lottery more equitably among all registrants, rather than only those selected. The State Department stated, “This change will more fairly place the burden of the lottery registration on individuals seeking the benefit.”
Critics argue that this fee could deter potential immigrants and create additional hurdles in the already complicated immigration process. Heath Brown, an associate professor at the City University of New York, warned that “any decision to add paperwork and bureaucracy may dampen interest in immigration” and could adversely affect U.S. business activities.
The State Department also plans to amend its regulations to inform applicants about this fee at the time of registration, which will take effect 30 days after the notice is published. This means that potential applicants should be aware of these changes as they prepare for the next lottery cycle.
Additionally, officials have hinted at a shift toward a more merit-based immigration system. In August, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick emphasized the need to prioritize higher-income applicants, stating, “We are going to start picking the best people to come into the country.”
As this story develops, the impact of the proposed fee could resonate broadly among those hoping to secure permanent residency in the United States. Stay informed as we continue to track this critical change in immigration policy.
This update is expected to spark discussions among advocates and potential applicants alike, highlighting the ongoing tension between immigration reform and accessibility. Share your thoughts on how this new fee might affect your or your community’s immigration plans.
