DOS Issues Updated Diversity Visa Guidance

Jan 5, 2026 | Immigration Articles

On December 23, 2025, the Department of State (DOS) released updated guidance on diversity visa (DV) issuance. The guidance notes that effective immediately, DOS has paused all visa issuances to diversity immigrant visa applicants.

DV applicants may submit visa applications and attend interviews, and DOS will continue to schedule applicants for appointments, but no DVs will be issued. Existing DV appointments generally will not be rescheduled or canceled, DOS said. No diversity or other visas have been revoked as part of this guidance.

Sign Up For Our Immigration Newsletter

Updates from our Immigration Team straight to your inbox.

You have Successfully Subscribed!