Form DS-160 Visa Application
Nonimmigrant Visa For the United States
DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application
The DS-160 form, introduced by the U.S. Department of State, is an innovative online application designed to consolidate various existing DS forms, such as the DS-156, DS-157, and DS-158, into a single electronic submission. This form is specifically utilized for applying for non-immigrant visas, including the B-2 Tourist Visa and B-1 Business Visa. Officially titled the “Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form,” the DS-160 is integral to the visa application process but does not negate the necessity of an interview. There are primarily two steps involved in applying for a U.S. visa:
The DS-160 form is now mandatory across all U.S. Embassies and Consulates. To complete the DS-160 form online, an internet-enabled computer is required.
- Begin Your Application Now
- Clear, Simple Guidelines
- Option to Apply Online or Via Mail
- Detailed Pricing and Fees
- Necessary Documents Checklist
- Continuous Online Help
Step 1: Online Application
- Begin the Application for Form DS-160 Online
- Before starting, ensure you have the following essential information:
- Your valid passport.
- Details of any previous U.S. visas, if applicable.
- Your travel itinerary (if already planned, though it’s not mandatory).
- Dates of your last five visits to the U.S., if you’ve previously traveled there.
- Your resume, detailing your educational and work history (this might be requested).
- Further details about the purpose of your visit.
Additional Instructions:
- Only fields labeled “Optional” can be skipped.
- If you’re unable to complete the application in one go, you have the option to save and resume within 30 days.
- You have the choice to either upload a digital photo during the online application or bring a physical photograph to the embassy for your interview.
- All responses must be in English, using English alphabets and characters.
Step 2: Arranging the Visa Interview
After completing the DS-160 form online, the next step is to set up your visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Key Points:
- Post completion of the DS-160 form online, proceed to schedule your interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Make sure to bring either the confirmation page or the entire completed application to the interview.
- The process for scheduling an interview differs from country to country (options include online, via phone, using a PIN system, etc.)
Notable Exceptions:
Certain visa categories still require additional forms along with the DS-160:
- K-1 Visa: For a fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen.
- K-2 Visa: For a child of a K-1 visa holder.
- K-3 Visa: For a spouse of a U.S. citizen.
- K-4 Visa: For a child of a K-3 visa holder.
- Specific E Visas necessitate the completion of form DS-156E.
Remember, the DS-160 form is now the standard requirement at all U.S. Embassies and Consulates and requires an internet connection to complete online.