The United States government has dismissed online rumours claiming that the 2027 Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery has been opened, warning the public to beware of scammers exploiting unsuspecting applicants.
In an official statement issued on Wednesday, November 5, the US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs clarified that the DV-2027 entry registration period is not yet open and that any claims suggesting otherwise are false.
“We are aware of reports of fraudulent claims that DV-2027 entry is open and of individuals and services falsely claiming they can increase your chances of selection. This is not true,” the notice read.
The Department emphasized that all updates regarding the DV-2027 program — including registration dates and any changes to the process — will be announced exclusively through official government channels, urging the public to avoid unofficial websites and social media pages.
This latest advisory follows a rising wave of online scams targeting hopeful immigrants, some of whom have reportedly been conned into paying “processing” or “selection guarantee” fees through fake portals.
The Bureau reiterated that the official and only application platform for the Diversity Visa Lottery remains dvprogram.state.gov, and that entry into the lottery is always free of charge.
This is not the first time the US has sounded alarm over visa-related fraud and compliance.
In August, the US Embassy in Nairobi cautioned international students against violating visa conditions, warning that failure to remain enrolled or active in academic programs could result in visa revocation and future ineligibility.
“If you drop out, skip classes, or leave your program of study without informing your school, your visa may be revoked,” the Embassy warned in a social media statement on August 13.
Earlier that same month, the Embassy also reminded Kenyan applicants to be transparent when declaring their social media accounts during visa applications, stressing that failure to disclose such information could lead to denial or permanent ineligibility.
Since 2019, US visa applicants — both immigrant and non-immigrant — have been required to provide their social media identifiers as part of a broader vetting process aimed at safeguarding national security.
“We use all available information in our visa screening to identify applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including those who pose a threat to national security,” the statement read.
As the US government continues to tighten its screening systems, Kenyans seeking opportunities abroad are urged to remain vigilant, follow official announcements, and steer clear of individuals or platforms promising shortcuts to American visas.
Official updates on the DV-2027 Lottery will be published on the State Department’s website and verified embassy channels.
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