Court Sets October 14–23 Processing Window for FY2026 Diversity Visas

A federal judge has ordered a ten-day processing window for fiscal year 2026 Diversity Visa applications, beginning October 14 at 12:01 a.m. and ending October 23 at 11:59 p.m. These times follow the local time of each U.S. embassy or consulate handling the cases.

Under the October 13 order in Medani v. Trump, the State Department must take reasonable steps, to the extent practicable and in good faith, to reconsider FY2026 applications refused solely under its Diversity Visa pause or separate 75-country pause, and resume ordinary adjudication of pending applications.

Who is covered?

The order defines applications as successfully submitted DS-260 forms from FY2026 Diversity Visa selectees and incorporates earlier court definitions. The certified classes include affected selectees and derivative beneficiaries; relief is not limited to the named plaintiffs.

The window implements additional processing time granted after the court found that State Department compliance delays had undermined its earlier injunction. It concerns consular DV-2026 cases, not an extension of employment-based visa deadlines or USCIS adjustment-of-status processing. September 30 ruling.

What should applicants do?

Affected applicants should promptly contact their assigned consular post, monitor official appointment notices and email, and consult counsel about their circumstances. Class counsel likewise directs selectees to contact their posts.

The order does not guarantee an interview or visa issuance. Applicants must still meet individual eligibility requirements, and implementation at each post has not been independently confirmed. Check updated consular instructions and subsequent court orders before relying on processing availability.

The next court status conference is scheduled for October 22.

Questions about your Diversity Visa case? Explore our immigration services, or schedule a consultation with Benjamin Hamilton.