This year’s diversity visa lottery begins on October 1, 2013. And for the first time ever
“Diversity Visa applicants may include same-sex spouses in their initial entries or add spouses acquired after their initial registration. Those spouses who will follow-to-join DV 2013 applicants must make application on or before September 30, 2013. Spouses of DV 2014 applicants, even those not included in the initial entry, must apply before September 30, 2014.”
The Diversity lottery is an excellent opportunity for individuals with no other immigration options. Take note that there are a number of individuals who take advantage of this process to defraud immigrants, so be careful.