In a significant and sudden policy shift, the DHS has paused the Diversity Immigrant Visa program (DV1), also commonly known as the green card lottery. This decision, announced on December 18, 2025, stops new diversity visas from being issued while the program’s future is reviewed. 

The DV program historically makes up to 50,000 immigrant visas available each year to individuals from countries with low rates of U.S. immigration. Millions of people worldwide apply annually for the chance to win a slot in the lottery and pursue permanent resident status. 

What Happened

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem ordered USCIS to halt the DV1 program immediately at the direction of President Trump. The announcement linked the decision to a recent tragic shooting incident involving a man who reportedly entered the U.S. many years ago and later received permanent residency through the DV lottery.

In official statements, DHS said the pause was intended to “ensure no more Americans are harmed by this program,” reflecting longstanding criticism from the current administration that the diversity visa system lacks merit-based selection and sufficient safety safeguards.

At this point, DHS has not specified how long the pause will last or whether it anticipates permanent changes to the program.

What the Diversity Visa Program Was

For decades, the Diversity Visa program was a unique part of U.S. immigration law. Created by Congress in 1990, it was designed to diversify the U.S. immigrant population by offering visas to people from countries with historically low immigration levels. Each year, the Department of State ran a random lottery that could result in up to 55,000 immigrant visas being issued worldwide. 

To qualify, applicants needed a minimum of a high school education (or equivalent work experience), pass background checks, and succeed in a consular interview or adjustment process.

Who Is Most Affected?

  • Green Card Lottery Applicants Worldwide:
    Anyone currently in the process of a DV lottery application or hoping to apply in the next lottery cycle will now face uncertainty about timing and eligibility. 
  • Individuals Selected in Recent Lotteries:
    Those already selected for the 2025 and anticipated 2026 DV lotteries, who were preparing documentation or interviews, may experience delays or suspension of processing depending on how the pause is enforced.

Why This Matters

Even before the pause, the Diversity Visa program was often overshadowed by more predictable immigration pathways like employment-based (EB) visas, family-based petitions, or investor and special immigrant visas. But for many individuals and families worldwide, the DV lottery was a symbol of possibility, a direct, non-sponsored route to a U.S. green card.

The pause represents:

  • Increased uncertainty for up to 50,000 potential immigrant visas that would have been available annually. 
  • A shift in immigration policy focus, emphasizing merit, security review, and alternative visa streams. 
  • A reminder of how external events and political priorities can impact longstanding immigration programs. 

What You Should Do Now

If you or someone you know is affected:

  1. Watch for Official Guidance

Stay updated through official DHS and State Department channels. Rules about how the pause applies, especially for those already in the lottery process, are likely to come out soon.

  1. Review Alternative Pathways

For those seeking permanent residence, other options may still be viable, including:

  • Family-based petitions 
  • Employment-based preferences (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3) 
  • Investment visas (such as E-2 or EB-5) 
  • Extraordinary ability categories (like O-1 or EB-1A) 

A strategic evaluation can help you decide the best path forward.

  1. Consult with an Immigration Attorney

The pause introduces complexity and uncertainty. Legal guidance can help you understand procedural options, timing, and whether your current application status is affected.

Final Thoughts

The pause of the Diversity Visa program is a major development in U.S. immigration policy. What has historically provided opportunity for tens of thousands of individuals each year is now in limbo. This policy directly affects many hopeful applicants who must reassess their immigration plans.

At Garvish Immigration Law Group, we are closely tracking updates as they unfold and can help you explore alternatives and plan strategically for your immigration goals, even in the face of changing federal policy.

Reach out if you have questions about your case or want help evaluating your options in light of this pause.