The Californer - U.S. Lawmakers Propose New 0 Fee for Green Card Lottery Applicants

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Advocates warn that proposed fees could shut out thousands of eligible applicants from low-income countries, drastically altering the accessibility and intent of the Diversity Visa Lottery program.

BOSTON - Californer -- A newly proposed immigration bill in the U.S. House of Representatives could dramatically raise costs for individuals applying to the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery Program, an annual opportunity that allows up to 55,000 people from underrepresented countries to obtain permanent U.S. residency. The bill, introduced on May 16, 2025, seeks to impose a $250 entry fee—replacing the current free application system used by millions of applicants worldwide.

The proposal is part of the "Big, Beautiful Border Security Act" presented by the House Judiciary Committee and is intended to reshape U.S. immigration policy. In addition to the new entry fee, the bill would raise the visa application fee for selected winners from $330 to $400 per person. Immigration experts and advocates have raised concerns that such changes could restrict access for applicants from low-income nations, many of whom already face significant economic and political barriers.

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Each year, the DV Lottery draws millions of entries from across the globe. The program offers a rare chance to immigrate to the United States without employer sponsorship or family ties. Applicants are selected at random, but must meet basic eligibility requirements such as a high school education or qualifying work experience.

Critics argue that the proposed fee structure is an intentional deterrent. "This program was designed to increase diversity and promote fairness," said Nathan Brown, Senior Immigration Strategist at USA Green Card. "A mandatory $250 fee would disproportionately affect the very people the program is meant to serve—those from disadvantaged backgrounds with few options for legal immigration."

Supporters of the bill claim the fee increases are necessary to cover administrative costs and help deter fraudulent or incomplete entries. But advocates warn that higher costs will make the program inaccessible to many of the world's most vulnerable applicants, shifting the DV Lottery away from its core purpose.

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The legislation has not yet passed and remains under committee review. As debate continues, millions of would-be applicants are left wondering whether this may be the final year they can apply under the current rules.

About USA Green Card
USA Green Card (www.USA-Green-Card.com) is a trusted immigration services organization that helps eligible individuals worldwide navigate the U.S. Diversity Visa Lottery process. The company provides low-cost professional support to ensure applications are completed correctly and submitted on time, increasing the chances of successful participation, which are especially important as potential rule changes loom.