Nairobi, Kenya – Wednesday, October 23, 2025 – Thousands of Kenyans are one step closer to achieving permanent residency in the United States, with 4,459 individuals selected in the DV-2025 Diversity Visa Program, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery. This places Kenya sixth worldwide and fourth in Africa for the number of selectees, according to recent data from the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs.

The announcement highlights the continued strong interest among Kenyans in seeking opportunities abroad, with the U.S. remaining a prime destination for those pursuing new lives and careers. The DV-2025 program saw a total of 19,927,656 qualified entries globally during its 35-day application period, which ran from Wednesday, October 4, 2023, to Tuesday, November 7, 2023.

Historical and Political Context

The Diversity Visa Program, established by the U.S. Immigration Act of 1990, aims to diversify the immigrant population in the United States by offering up to 55,000 immigrant visas annually to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S. Kenya has consistently been an eligible country for this program, reflecting its historical immigration patterns to the U.S.

While the Green Card lottery offers a significant opportunity, it is important to note that selection does not guarantee a visa. It grants applicants the chance to proceed with the rigorous application process for an immigrant visa. This process involves submitting detailed personal, educational, and work history information via the DS-260 form, gathering supporting documents such as a valid passport, birth certificate, police clearance, and academic qualifications, and attending an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi.

Laws, Policy, and Governance

The DV-2025 program operates under Section 203(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Annually, up to 55,000 permanent resident visas are made available. However, due to provisions like the Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA), the actual number of available Diversity Visas for DV-2025 is approximately 51,350. Visas are apportioned among six geographic regions, with a maximum of seven percent issued to persons chargeable to any single country.

Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including a high school education or its equivalent, or two years of work experience in an eligible occupation within the past five years. The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs oversees the program, with the Kentucky Consular Center in Williamsburg, Kentucky, responsible for registering and notifying selectees.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

The allure of the American dream continues to draw many Kenyans, with stories of both success and challenges emerging from those who have pursued this path. While some, like Mr. Simiyu, a Kenyan who won the Green Card lottery in 2000, attest to its life-changing potential, others face significant hurdles upon arrival in the U.S., including difficulties in finding suitable employment and adapting to a new environment.

The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi processes all immigrant visa applications for Kenyans. Consular officers conduct interviews to assess applicants' eligibility, emphasizing the need for accurate information and complete documentation.

Evidence and Data

Risks and Implications

While the Green Card lottery offers a unique opportunity, applicants must be wary of fraudulent schemes. The U.S. Department of State does not send notification letters or emails to inform selectees; individuals must check their status online using their unique confirmation number. There is no cost to register for the DV Program, although a mandatory application fee of $330 (approximately KSh 42,619 at current exchange rates) is required for those selected for interviews.

The program also faces ongoing legislative scrutiny in the U.S. Congress, with discussions around potentially replacing it with a merit-based visa system. Such a change could significantly impact Kenyans, as it would introduce a more competitive environment based on education and employment criteria.

Unknowns and Controversies

The exact number of visas that will ultimately be issued to Kenyan selectees for DV-2025 remains to be seen. While 131,060 individuals were initially selected globally, this larger figure accounts for the likelihood that some selectees will not complete their cases or will be found ineligible. The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi is currently processing DV-2026 cases, indicating the ongoing nature of the program.

Timeline and Next Steps

DV-2025 selectees can check their status online until September 30, 2025. Those selected must act quickly to complete their immigrant visa applications and follow the instructions provided in their notification letter. Visa interviews will be scheduled, and successful applicants will receive an immigrant visa in their passport, allowing them to travel to the U.S. and become lawful permanent residents.

What to Watch

Kenyans interested in future Diversity Visa programs should monitor the U.S. Department of State's Diversity Visa webpage for announcements regarding the DV-2026 and DV-2027 registration periods. The DV-2027 application period is expected to open in October 2025 and continue into November 2025. Any legislative changes to the Diversity Visa program in the U.S. Congress will also be crucial to watch, as they could alter the future of this immigration pathway for Kenyans.