Why are some countries excluded from the DV lottery?

Countries with high recent immigration rates to the U.S. are excluded to maintain diversity among immigrants.

How can I find the most current list of ineligible countries for the DV lottery?

The official U.S. State Department website publishes and updates the list of ineligible countries annually.

Applicants born in an excluded country usually cannot apply unless they qualify through a spouse or parent born in an eligible country.

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Jun 14, 2026

Countries ineligible for the DV Lottery (Diversity Visa Lottery) typically include those with high levels of recent immigration to the United States. As of now, these countries are Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China (mainland-born), Colombia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, United Kingdom (except Northern Ireland), and Vietnam. Please refer to the official U.S. State Department website for the most current list.

Why are some countries excluded from the DV lottery? Countries with high recent immigration rates to the U.S. are excluded to maintain diversity among immigrants.
How can I find the most current list of ineligible countries for the DV lottery? The official U.S. State Department website publishes and updates the list of ineligible countries annually.
Can a person born in an excluded country still apply for the DV lottery? Applicants born in an excluded country usually cannot apply unless they qualify through a spouse or parent born in an eligible country.