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DV Assist

Applying for the DV lottery with a spouse and children

Who must be listed in a US Diversity Visa entry: the spouse, unmarried children under 21, whether spouses file two entries, and what about adopted children and stepchildren.

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Who must you list?

You must list your spouse and every unmarried child under 21 when you register, including stepchildren and adopted children, even if they will not immigrate with you.

Leaving out someone who should be listed can lead to disqualification or problems at the interview.

Can both spouses enter?

Yes. Each spouse may file one entry and each lists the other as a spouse. This improves the family's chances because if either entry is selected it covers both.

Filing two entries without listing each other is a common mistake.

Children and age

What counts is the child's age at registration: they must be under 21 and unmarried. Each child has their own photo and details within your entry.

If a child turns 21 after registration, special age rules may apply at the interview, so read the official instructions.

Photos and details for each person

Every listed person needs a photo that meets the rules and complete details. Prepare them all before you start registering, and check each photo with the free checker.

Questions and answers

Should I list a child who lives with their mother abroad?

Yes. Listing is required even if the child will not travel with you, as long as they are under 21 and unmarried.

Should I list my wife's child from another marriage?

Yes. Stepchildren and adopted children are listed according to the official instructions.

If one spouse wins, does the other travel too?

Yes, if they are listed in the winning entry and meet the requirements, the selection covers both.

Important notice, in plain words

Please read these facts before you start, so you can decide with full information.

  • This website is an independent private service. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representing the US Government or the US Department of State.

  • The official entry on dvprogram.state.gov costs a $1 US government fee (non-refundable). You can enter yourself directly on the official website and pay only that $1.

  • Our 5.000 JOD fee covers only the help and submitting the entry on your behalf. The $1 government fee is passed through: we pay it for you when we submit and collect it from you, so you pay one total of 5.710 JOD.

  • Nobody, including us, can increase your chance of winning. The selection is entirely random.

  • Only one entry per person per year is allowed. Duplicate entries get you disqualified.

  • Results are published only on the official website. With the confirmation number we give you, you check them yourself.

dvprogram.state.gov — the official DV program website