A lottery green card is a process within the United States by which permanent residency cards are given out. The issuance of the permanent residency cards, also known as green cards, given out each and every year is known as the green card lottery. Applicants are selected randomly by a computer-generated drawing. If an individual is selected, not only the main applicant may apply but their spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age may apply as well. If selected within the green card lottery, it does not guarantee green card or US citizenship status as there are a variety of forms and documents that must still be filled out and approved. The lottery green card system however does assure the first and most important step in the process allowing the individual and their family to move on.