Beginning next month, people applying for the U.S. Diversity Visa lottery must have a valid passport from their home country. The rule, issued by the U.S. Department of State, revives a policy first introduced during Donald Trump’s first term.
The diversity visa program provides up to 55,000 visas each year to applicants from countries with historically low levels of immigration to the United States. The program is particularly important for many African applicants. State Department officials say the passport requirement will help reduce fraud in lottery entries. On average, passports cost about $75 in countries eligible for the program.
An earlier version of the rule was blocked by a federal court in 2022 after judges determined it had bypassed the required public notice and comment process.
How the New Rule Could Affect Applicants
While the State Department says the requirement will help prevent fraud and ensure applicants are serious about immigrating, critics argue that the added cost and effort could make it more difficult for some people to participate. This may be especially challenging for applicants in lower-income countries.
As a result, the change may reduce the number of eligible applicants and create an additional barrier for individuals who rely on the program as one of the few legal pathways to immigrate to the United States.
Contact An Immigration Lawyer Today
Reeves Immigration Law Group has decades of experience in handling visas and asylum applications and has successfully handled some of the most complex cases. Our team of immigration attorneys understands your concerns and will work with you to provide a personalized approach to meet your immigration needs.
Contact us today to speak with one of our immigration attorneys regarding recent legislative changes and for help with setting up your case for success.
