The Diversity Visa (DV) program, often called the green card lottery, gives out about 55,000 immigrant visas a year by random draw to people from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. Registration is free and only on the official State Department website.
Does being selected mean I get a green card?
No. Being selected only gives you the chance to apply. Many more people are selected than there are visas, so you must complete the process quickly, pass the interview, and qualify. Visas run out during the year.
Why do some countries not take part?
Countries that sent more than 50,000 immigrants to the U.S. over the previous five years are left out of that year's lottery. The list changes from year to year.
Numbers are from the State Department's published tables. Entries are the people who registered (not their family members). Visa Status is not an official site and does not give immigration advice. Always use the official Diversity Visa website (dvprogram.state.gov); registration is free.