Diversity Visa (DV) Issuance Paused

What Was Announced?

The U.S. Department of State has issued updated guidance confirming that all Diversity Immigrant Visa (DV) issuances are currently paused, effective immediately. This pause applies across the board and impacts DV-2025 and DV-2026 selectees alike.

What Has Changed?

• The Department of State has paused the issuance of all Diversity Visas.

• DV applicants may still submit applications and attend scheduled interviews.

• No Diversity Visas will be issued while the pause remains in effect.

• There are no exceptions to this guidance.

• No previously issued immigrant visas or green cards have been revoked as part of this action.

Why the DV Program Is Paused?

According to the Department of State, the pause is intended to allow for a review of screening and vetting protocols within the Diversity Visa program. The review is focused on ensuring that DV applicants meet identity, eligibility, national security, and public safety standards before visas are issued.

Impact on Current DV Selectees

DV-2025 selectees

• If you have already entered the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident, your status is not revoked by this guidance.

• If your immigrant visa has been issued but not yet used for entry, travel and admission may be subject to heightened scrutiny and uncertainty.

DV-2026 selectees

• Applicants should expect significant delays.

• Interviews may be scheduled, but cases will not be finalized through visa issuance until further notice.

Practical Guidance for Applicants

• Do not make irreversible life decisions (resigning from employment, selling property, withdrawing children from school) based on prior DV timelines.

• Preserve all documentation, including DS-260 confirmations, interview notices, medical exam receipts, and correspondence with government agencies.

• Monitor official communications from the Kentucky Consular Center (KCC), U.S. embassies or consulates, and the Department of State for updates.

• Where travel or case timing is critical, seek individualized legal guidance before taking action.

Key Takeaway

The Diversity Visa program remains operational at a procedural level, but visa issuance is frozen. While this pause does not invalidate existing lawful permanent resident status or previously issued visas, it introduces real risk for applicants with pending or unused approvals. Careful planning and up-to-date legal advice are essential during this period of uncertainty.

Williams Global Law continues to monitor regulatory developments affecting the H-1B program and advises clients on tailored, forward-looking immigration strategies.

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