The United States Government issues 55,000 permanent resident cards (Green Cards) every year through the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery. Applicants are selected randomly by a computer-generated drawing. If selected, the main applicant, spouse and all unmarried children under 21 years of age will have a chance to apply for permanent resident status in the United States. It is a misconception to believe that “winning” the Green Card Lottery automatically grants the selected applicant a Green Card or United States Citizenship. There are several additional forms and documents that must be submitted and approved by the U.S. government before the applicant receives permanent residence in the United States