2011 Diversity Visa program receives 900,000 applications in the first week

On October 2, 2009, The U.S. State Department launched the 2011 Diversity Visa Program. Between October 2 to November 30, 2009, applicants from countries around the world may register for a chance at winning one of the 55,000 immigrant visas that are drawn randomly from all eligible applicants. The State Department will notify all successful applicants between May - July 2010 of their selection. Applicants will then be able to start the visa application process in October 2010.
The State Department has announced that during the first week of registration, they have received over 900,000 entries. This reflects a 63% increase in applications over the same period last year.
For information and instructions on how to register for the lottery, go to the State Department's lottery website: http://www.dvlottery.state.gov/