The DS-160 is the online nonimmigrant visa application, required for temporary visas such as the B1/B2 visitor visa and the F1 student visa. The consular officer relies on it during your interview, so accuracy is essential.
Before you start
Have the following ready so you can complete the form without interruption:
- A valid passport.
- A recent digital photo that meets the requirements.
- Your expected travel details: arrival date, length of stay and US address.
- Dates of previous US visits, if any.
- Your current and previous work or study details.
- Your social media identifiers from the last five years.
- Form I-20 for student visa applicants.
Step 1: Go to the official website
The form is completed only on the Department of State's CEAC website. Select the embassy or consulate where you will interview, then start a new application.
Write down your Application ID, choose a security question and save the answer right away; you cannot retrieve a saved application without them.
Step 2: Complete the sections
The form has several sections, including:
- Personal information: your name exactly as in your passport, date and place of birth, nationality.
- Address and contact details, including social media.
- Passport information.
- Travel information: purpose, expected dates and who pays.
- Travel companions.
- Previous US travel.
- US point of contact.
- Family information.
- Work, education and training.
- Security and background questions.
Step 3: Save often
The session times out after about 20 minutes of inactivity, so save your progress regularly. You can return to a saved application later with your Application ID and security answer.
Step 4: Upload your photo and review
Upload your digital photo, then review every section carefully before signing electronically. Once submitted, the form cannot be edited; any correction requires a new form.
Step 5: The confirmation page
After submission you will see a confirmation page with a barcode. Print it clearly; you will need it to book your appointment and on interview day. If you complete a new form after booking, update your appointment so it is linked to the new confirmation number, following the booking site's instructions.
Tips for an accurate form
- Answer in English, except for the full name in your native alphabet.
- Do not leave fields blank; use "Does Not Apply" where appropriate.
- Make sure your information matches your passport, documents and interview answers.
- Answer with complete honesty: misrepresentation can make you permanently ineligible for a visa.
