<p>I heard that playing this lottery is considered an immigration intent. Is it true? Should I register this year? Moreover, I played past 2 years too, will it affect my chances to get visa? If yes, then how severely?</p>
<p>I played the DV lottery while I was preparing to study in the US. I won, applied for a student visa, and after my first year in college had my green card.</p>
<p>I actually talked to an immigration lawyer because I had the same concerns that you are having now. I was told that the consular officer who will interview you for your student visa has no record of your participation in the DV lottery; and he also won’t know if your name was drawn. </p>
<p>If you do win and decide to file a green card application, your submitted green card application would be part of your consular record and establish an intent to immigrate. So, if you win, make sure to apply for your student visa before you apply for your green card (assuming you want both).</p>