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DS-160 Form Guide

The DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, is a comprehensive application that collects information for nonimmigrant visa processing. This guide will help you navigate through each section of the form.

Before You Begin

Before starting your DS-160 application, make sure you have:

  • A valid passport
  • Travel itinerary, if you have already made travel arrangements
  • Dates of your last five visits to the United States, if applicable
  • Your CV or resume that lists your work history
  • Other documentation supporting your application
  • A stable internet connection (the form times out after 20 minutes of inactivity)

Starting Your Application

  1. Access the form: Visit the official Consular Electronic Application Center
  2. Select your location: Choose the embassy or consulate where you will apply
  3. Record your application ID: After starting, you'll receive an application ID (example: AA00XXXXXXXX) - save this number

Completing Each Section

Personal Information

  • Full name as it appears in your passport
  • Other names used (if applicable)
  • Gender, marital status, and birth date
  • Place of birth (city, country/region)
  • Nationality and national identification number (if applicable)

Address and Phone Information

  • Home address and mailing address
  • Primary and secondary phone numbers
  • Email address (ensure this is accurate as communication will be sent here)

Passport Information

  • Passport number and issuance details
  • Expiration date
  • Have you ever lost a passport or had one stolen?

Travel Plans

  • Purpose of trip to the United States
  • Intended date of arrival and length of stay
  • Addresses where you will stay in the United States
  • Person/entity paying for your trip
  • Contact information in the United States (if applicable)

Travel Companions

  • Information about family members traveling with you
  • Details about the larger group or organization (if traveling as part of a group)

Previous U.S. Travel

  • Previous visits to the United States (dates, duration, purpose)
  • Prior U.S. visa information
  • Visa denials (if applicable)
  • History of canceled or revoked visas

Work, Education, and Training Information

  • Current and previous employment history
  • Educational background
  • Training in specialized fields (if applicable)

Security and Background Information

This section includes questions about:

  • Criminal history
  • Security concerns
  • Medical conditions
  • Prior immigration violations
  • Affiliations with certain organizations

Upload Photo

Requirements for your digital photo:

  • Recent photo (taken within the last 6 months)
  • White background
  • No eyeglasses
  • Full face view
  • Neutral facial expression or natural smile

Review and Submit

  1. Review all information: Check each section for accuracy
  2. E-sign your application: By electronically signing, you certify all information is true and correct
  3. Print confirmation page: You must bring this to your visa interview

After Submission

  • Schedule your visa interview at the embassy or consulate you selected
  • Pay the visa application fee
  • Prepare additional documents required for your interview
  • Attend your visa interview with all required documentation

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Leaving sections incomplete
  • Providing inconsistent information
  • Using abbreviations or acronyms without explanation
  • Forgetting to save your application periodically
  • Not bringing your confirmation page to the interview

Need Help?

If you experience technical issues with the DS-160 form, you can contact the technical support team through the help option on the application website or reach out to the embassy or consulate where you'll be applying.