The first step in your US visa application process is to fill DS-160 form online. It is also the most important step as the result of your visa to the most part depends on your DS-160 form.
DS-160 is a very lengthy form, so it can take you a few days to complete. So, start your US visa process early. You can also save and come back to your DS-160 form at any time.
Why is DS-160 form very important in your US visa application?
During the interview, you may not be asked to present any documentation at all. In that case, your US visa result would be completely based on what you have entered in your DS-160 form and what you say during the interview.
Even if you are asked to present any documentation, the visa officers may compare what you have on the document with what you have entered in your DS-160 form. If any piece of information does not match, you may be asked to justify or your visa may be denied.
Therefore, filling your DS-160 form with highly relevant, accurate and honest information is very much necessary. Pay careful attention to every piece of information you enter in your DS-160 form.
How to use this step-by-step guide?
I have listed out all sections and questions in this guide. For each question, there is a comment explaining what exactly needs to be entered.
REMINDER
The result of your visa to the most part depends on the information you fill in your DS-160. Pay careful attention to the information you enter in your DS-160. It must be accurate, honest and must match with what you say during the visa interview. DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT lie in your DS-160. This can lead to visa denial, visa ban or permanent blacklist.
***
Steps to fill DS-160 form online
- Getting Started
- Apply for a Nonimmigrant Visa
- Application Information
- Personal
- Personal 1
- Personal 2
- Address and Phone
- Passport
- Travel
- Travel Companions
- Previous U.S. Travel
- U.S. Contact
- Family
- Work / Education / Training
- Present
- Previous
- Additional
- Security and Background
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3
- Part 4
- Part 5
- Photo
- Upload Photo
- Comfirm Photo
- Review
- Sign and Submit
- Confirmation
01. Getting Started
To start your DS-160 form online, head over to the US Department of State’s Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160) page.
DS-160 – Apply for Nonimmigrant page
Enter the following details on the “Apply for a Nonimmigrant Visa” page
- Select a location where you will be applying for this visa [Comment: Select the country where you intend to attend your US visa interview]
- Enter the code as shown [Comment: Enter the code shown in captcha in this field. This is to make sure you are a real human and not a bot]
- This visa application will ask you to upload a digital photo of yourself [Comment: If you already have a digital photo for your visa application, click on “Test Photo” to check if your photo meets with the specifications. If you don’t have a photo and want to know the photo requirements, click on “Photo Standard Guide”]
NOTE
The question “This visa application will ask you to upload a digital photo of yourself” is shown only for certain countries such as Malaysia, Philippines, etc. If you choose a country such as India, Mexico, etc., this question will not be shown.
After you have entered the above data, you will see 3 buttons –
- Start an Application [Comment: Click this button if you are starting a new application]
- Upload an Application [Comment: Click this button if you are uploading a locally saved application]
- Retrieve an Application [Comment: Click this button if you are retrieving a previously saved application]
You will only be using “Start an Application” and “Retrieve an Application” while filling your DS-160. Let’s look into these options in detail –
Start an Application
Click this button when you are starting a new DS-160 application. This will create an Application ID, which you must print or at least make a note of. You will need the Application ID to retrieve your saved DS-160 application.
Retrieve an Application
The DS-160 session times out if left open for too long. If that happens, you can come back to your saved application (saved till the last section) using this option.
Sometimes you might need extra time to gather the information needed to fill DS-160 form. In that case, you can save and come back to your saved application using this option. You would need your DS-160 Application ID to retrieve the saved application.
After you enter the above data and click on “Start an Application”, you will then see the “Application Information” Screen. Your “Application ID” will be displayed here. Print this page. Or take a screenshot or make note of the DS-160 Application ID somewhere. You will need your Application ID to retrieve your saved DS-160 application.
DS-160 – Application Information page
Enter the following details on the “Application Information” page
- Security Question [Comment: Select a security question from the list]
- Answer [Comment: Enter the answer for your security question]
IMPORTANT
Make a note of your “Application ID”, “Security Question” and “Answer”. The “Security Question and Answer” along with the “Application ID”, “Surname” and “Birth Year” are REQUIRED to retrieve your saved DS-160 visa application. If you forget any of this information, you will not be able to retrieve your saved application. You will have to start over again with a new DS-160 application.
02. Personal
DS-160 – Personal Information 1 page
Enter the following information in the “Personal 1”
- Surnames [Comment: Enter your surname from your passport]
- Given Names [Comment: Enter your given name from your passport]
- Full Name in Native Alphabet [Comment: No need to enter anything here, just check “Does Not Apply/Technology Not Available”]
- Have you ever used other names (i.e, maiden, religious, professional, alias, etc.)? [Comment: Select “Yes” if you have a maiden name, otherwise select “No”]
- Do you have a telecode that represents your name? [Comment: Just select “No”]
- Sex [Comment: Select “Male” or “Female”]
- Marital Status [Comment: Select your marital status from the options]
- MARRIED
- COMMON LAW MARRIAGE
- CIVIL UNION/DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP
- SINGLE
- WIDOWED
- DIVORCED
- LEGALLY SEPARATED
- OTHER
- Date and Place of Birth
- Date [Comment: Enter your date of birth]
- City [Comment: Enter the city where you were born]
- State [Comment: Enter the state/province where you were born]
- Country/Region [Comment: Enter the country where you were born]
DS-160 – Personal Information 2 page
Enter the following information in the “Personal 2”
- Country/Region of Origin (Nationality) [Comment: Select your country of nationality]
- Do you hold or have you held any nationality other than the one indicated above on nationality? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” if you have acquired a nationality other than your birth nationality]
- Are you a permanent resident of a country/region other than your country/region of origin (nationality) indicated above? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” if you have acquired permanent residence in a country other your country of birth]
- National Identification Number [Comment: Check “Does Not Apply” | Enter your National Identification Number if your country has one]
- U.S. Social Security Number [Comment: Check “Does Not Apply” | Enter your US SSN if you have lived in the US before]
- U.S.Taxpayer ID Number [Comment: Check “Does Not Apply” | Enter your US TIN Number if you had/have one]
03. Address and Phone
DS-160 – Address and Phone Information page
Enter the following information in “Address and Phone”
- Home Address
- Street Address (Line 1) [Comment: Enter your home street address]
- Street Address (Line 2) *Optional [Comment: Enter any additional street address]
- City [Comment: Enter your city]
- State/Province [Comment: Enter your state/province]
- Postal Zone/Zip Code [Comment: Enter your postal or zip code]
- Country/Region [Comment: Select your country]
- Mailing Address
- Is your Mailing Address the same as your Home Address? [Comment: Select “Yes” if your home and mailing addresses are same. Otherwise, select “No” and enter your mailing address]
- Phone
- Primary Phone Number [Comment: Enter your cell phone number where the consulate can reach you if needed]
- Secondary Phone Number [Comment: Enter your home phone number where the consulate can call you if your cell phone is not reachable. If you don’t have one, just check “Does Not Apply”]
- Work Phone Number [Comment: Enter your work phone number where the consulate can call you if your cell/home phones are not reachable. If you don’t have one, just check “Does Not Apply”]
- Email Address [Comment: Enter your email address where the consulate can email you if needed]
04. Passport
DS-160 – Passport Information page
Enter the following information in “Passport Information”
- Passport/Travel Document Type [Comment: Select “REGULAR” from the options]
- REGULAR
- OFFICIAL
- DIPLOMATIC
- OTHER
- Passport/Travel Document Number [Comment: Enter your passport number]
- Passport Book Number [Comment: Just check “Does Not Apply”]
- Country/Authority that Issued Passport/Travel Document [Comment: Select your country of passport]
- Where was the Passport/Travel Document Issued?
- City [Comment: Enter the place of issue from your passport | If you can’t find the place of issue on your passport, just enter the city where your passport was issued]
- State/Province *If shown on passport [Comment: Enter state/province of issue from your passport | If state/province of issue is not on your passport, leave this field blank]
- Country/Region [Comment: Enter the country where your passport was issued]
- Issuance Date [Comment: Enter the date of issue from your passport]
- Expiration Date [Comment: Enter the date of expiration from your passport]
- Have your ever lost a passport or had one stolen? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if you have ever lost your passport or stolen]
05. Travel
DS-160 – Travel Information page
Enter the following information in “Travel”
- Purpose of Trip to the U.S. [Comment: Select “TEMP. BUSINESS PLEASURE VISITOR (B)” | If applying for a different visa, select the appropriate visa class from the options]
- FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL (A)
- TEMP. BUSINESS PLEASURE VISITOR (B)
- ALIEN IN TRANSIT (C)
- CNMI WORKER OR INVESTOR (CW/E2C)
- CREWMEMBER (D)
- TREATY TRADER OR INVESTOR (E)
- ACADEMIC OR LANGUAGE STUDENT (F)
- INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION REP./EMP. (G)
- TEMPORARY WORKER (H)
- FOREIGN MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE (I)
- EXCHANGE VISITOR (J)
- FIANCÉ(E) OR SPOUCE OF U.S. CITIZEN (K)
- INTRACOMPANY TRANSFAREE (L)
- VOCATIONAL/NON-ACADEMIC STUDENT (M)
- OTHER (N)
- NATO STAFF (NATO)
- ALIEN WITH EXTRAORDINARY ABILITY (O)
- INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED ALIEN (P)
- CULTURAL EXCHANGE VISITOR (Q)
- RELIGIOUS WORKER (R)
- INFORMANT OR WITNESS (S)
- VICTIM OF TRAFFICKING (T)
- NAFTA PROFESSIONAL (TD/TN)
- VICTIM OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY (U)
- PAROLE BENEFICIARY (PARCIS)
- Specify [Comment: Select “BUSINESS & TOURISM (TEMPORARY VISITOR) (B1/B2)” | If you have selected different visa class, then select the appropriate option here]
- Have you made specific travel plans [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if you have bought your flight tickets and hotel]
- Intended Date of Arrival [Comment: Select the approximate date on which you intend to arrive in the US]
- Intended Length of Stay in the U.S. [Comment: Select the number of days you intend to spend in the US on this trip]
- Address Where You Will Stay in the U.S. [Comment: Enter the address where you intend to stay in the US (hotel, friend, relative, etc)]
- Street Address (Line 1)
- Street Address (Line 2) *Optional
- City
- State
- Zip Code (if known)
- Person/Entity Paying for Your Trip [Comment: Select “SELF” | If someone else is paying for your trip, select the appropriate option]
- SELF
- OTHER PERSON
- OTHER COMPANY/ORGANIZATION
PRO TIP
For “TEMP. BUSINESS PLEASURE VISITOR (B)”, you will have 3 options to choose – B1 (Business), B2 (Tourism), B1/B2 (Business and Tourism). I suggest selecting “B1/B2” even though your purpose is strictly business or tourism. US visa is issued for 10 years and you never know when you would need to visit the US for business or when for tourism. “B1/B2” will work for both purposes and will spare you from unnecessary questions at the port of entry.
NOTE
Even if you have selected “B1” or “B2” as your choice, US would mostly issue “B1/B2”. In very rare cases, they issue a “B1” or a “B2”.
06. Travel Companions
DS-160 – Travel Companions Information page
Enter the following information in “Travel Companions”
- Persons traveling with you
- Are there other persons traveling with you? [Comment: Select “No” if you will be traveling by yourself | Select “Yes” if you will be traveling with family and provide details]
- Are you traveling as part of a group or organization? [Comment: Select “No”| Select “Yes” only if you will be traveling with a group or organization]
- Surnames of Person Traveling With You [Comment: Enter the surname of the person (ex: family member) traveling with you]
- Given Names of Person Traveling With You [Comment: Enter the given names of the person (ex: family member) traveling with you]
- Relationship with Person [Comment: Select the relationship of the person (ex: family member) traveling with you]
- Add Another [Comment: Use this option if you have more than one person (ex: family member) traveling with you]
07. Previous U.S. Travel
DS-160 – Previous U.S. Travel Information page
Enter the following information in “Previous U.S. Travel”
- Have you ever been in the U.S.? [Comment: Select “No” if you have NEVER been in the US | Select “Yes” if you have traveled to the US before and enter the below details]
- Date Arrived [Comment: Enter your previous date of arrival in the US]
- Length of Stay [Comment: Enter the number of days or months of your previous stay in the US]
- Add Another [Comment: Use this option if you have been in the US multiple times. You can enter up to 5 previous visits to the US]
- Do you or did you ever hold a U.S. Driver’s License? [Comment: Select “No” if you have not lived in the US before | Otherwise, select “Yes” and enter your existing/expired US driver’s license details below]
- Driver’s License Number [Comment: Enter your US driver’s license number. If you don’t remember, just check “Do Not Know”]
- State of Driver’s License [Comment: Select the “State” that issued your driver’s license]
- Add Another [Comment: Use this option if you had/have more than one US driver’s license]
- Have you ever been issued a U.S. Visa? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” if you have been issued a U.S. visa before and enter your old visa details below]
- Date Last Visa was Issued [Comment: Enter the date of issue of your previous US visa]
- Visa Number [Comment: Enter the visa number (printed in RED on your visa sticker) of your previous US visa]
- Are you applying for the same type of visa? [Comment: Select “Yes” if applying for the same visa type, ex: B1/B2 | Otherwise select “No”]
- Are you applying in the same country or location where the visa above was issued, and is this country or location your place of principal of residence? [Comment: Select “Yes” if applying in the same location as your previous US visa and is also your current country of residence | Otherwise, select “No”]
- Have you been ten-printed? [Comment: Select “Yes” if your fingerprints were captured (all 10 fingers) during your the interview of your previous US visa | Otherwise, select “No”]
- Has your U.S. Visa ever been lost or stolen? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if any of your old US visas were lost or stolen]
- Has your U.S. Visa ever been cancelled or revoked? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if any of your old US visas were cancelled or revoked]
- Have you ever been refused a U.S. Visa, or been refused admission to the United States, or withdrawn your application for admission at the port of entry? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if you have been denied a US visa or refused entry into the US at the port of entry]
- Explain [Comment: Provide the details of your visa refusal or denial of entry]
- Has anyone ever filed an immigrant petition on your behalf with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if you had/have an approved I-140 (immigrant petition) and then explain the details below]
- Explain [Comment: Provide the details of your old/existing I-140 such as the priority date and receipt number]
NOTE
If you have been in the US before, you can use the Date and Time’s Days Calculator to calculate your “Length of Stay”.
08. U.S. Contact
DS-160 – U.S. Point of Contact Information page
Enter the following information in “U.S. Contact”
- Contact Person or Organization in the United States
- Contact Person [Comment: Enter the details of the person you know or will be visiting in the US below | If you don’t know anyone, check “Do Not Know”]
- Surnames [Comment: Enter the surname of your contact person in the US]
- Given Names [Comment: Enter the given name of your contact person in the US]
- Organization Name [Comment: Enter the name of the organization you know or will be visiting in the US | If you will not be visiting any, you can enter your hotel name or just check “Do Not Know”]
- Relationship to You [Comment: Enter your contact person’s relationship to you from these options]
- RELATIVE
- SPOUSE
- FRIEND
- BUSINESS ASSOCIATE
- EMPLOYER
- SCHOOL OFFICIAL
- OTHER
- Address and Phone Number of Point of Contact [Comment: Enter the address and phone details for your US contact]
- U.S. Street Address (Line 1)
- U.S. Street Address (Line 2) *Optional
- City
- State
- Zip Code (if known)
- Phone Number
- Email Address
NOTE
For “Contact Person or Organization in the United States”, you would need to enter AT LEAST one, either a “Contact Person” or an “Organization”. I suggest entering the hotel where you will be staying.
09. Family
DS-160 – Family Information: Relatives page
Enter the following information in “Relatives”
- Father’s Full Name and Date of Birth
- Surnames [Comment: Enter your father’s surname | If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
- Given Names [Comment: Enter your father’s given name | If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
- Date of Birth [Comment: Enter your father’s date of birth | If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
- Is your father in the U.S.? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” if your father is currently in the US and enter the details below]
- Mother’s Full Name and Date of Birth
- Surnames [Comment: Enter your mother’s surname | If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
- Given Names [Comment: Enter your mother’s given name | If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
- Date of Birth [Comment: Enter your mother’s date of birth | If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
- Is your mother in the U.S.? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” if your mother is currently in the US and enter the details below]
- Do you have any immediate relatives, not including parents, in the United States? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” if you have any immediate relatives such as spouse, children or siblings in the US and enter their details below]
- Do you have any other relatives in the United States? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” if you have any relatives such as grandparents, in-laws, uncles, aunts, cousins, etc. in the US and enter their details below]
NOTE
For “Other Relatives”, select “Yes” only if you have relatives that you keep in touch regularly and knows that you will be visiting the US soon.
Enter the following information in “Spouse”
- Spouse’s Full Name and Date of Birth (include Maiden Name)
- Spouse’s Surnames [Comment: Enter your spouse’s surname]
- Spouse’s Given Names [Comment: Enter your spouse’s given name]
- Spouse’s Date of Birth [Comment: Enter your spouse’s date of birth]
- Spouse’s Country/Region of Origin (Nationality) [Comment: Enter your spouse’s country of nationality]
- Spouse’s Place of Birth
- City [Comment: Enter your spouse’s city of birth]
- Country/Region [Comment: Enter your spouse’s country of birth]
- Spouse’s Address [Comment: Select your spouse’s address from the options or enter a new one]
- SAME AS HOME ADDRESS
- SAME AS MAILING ADDRESS
- SAME AS U.S. CONTACT ADDRESS
- DO NOT KNOW
- OTHER (SPECIFY ADDRESS)
NOTE
The “Spouse” section is only available if you have selected “MARRIED” as the “Marital Status” in “02. Personal” above.
10. Work / Education / Training
DS-160 – Present work/Education/Training Information page
Enter the following information in “Present”
- Primary Occupation [Comment: Select your primary occupation from the options]
- AGRICULTURE
- ARTIST/PERFORMER
- BUSINESS
- COMMUNICATIONS
- COMPUTER SCIENCE
- CULINARY/FOOD SERVICES
- EDUCATION
- ENGINEERING
- GOVERNMENT
- HOMEMAKER
- LEGAL PROFESSION
- MEDICAL/HEALTH
- MILITARY
- NATURAL SCIENCE
- NOT EMPLOYED
- PHYSICAL SCIENCES
- RELIGIOUS VACATION
- RESEARCH
- RETIRED
- SOCIAL SERVICES
- STUDENT
- OTHER
- Present Employer or School Name [Comment: Enter your current employer name (if employed) or university/college name (if student) or business name (if owns a business)]
- Present employer or school address: [Comment: Enter your current employer/school/business address below]
- Street Address (Line 1)
- Street Address (Line 2) *Optional
- City
- State/Province
- Postal Zone/Zip Code
- Phone Number
- Country/Region
- Start Date [Comment: Enter the start date of your current job or school curriculum or business]
- Monthly Income in Local Currency (if employed) [Comment: Enter the monthly income you make from your current job or business | Check “Does Not Apply” if you are a student or retired]
- Briefly describe your duties: [Comment: Write a brief list of duties performed at your current employer or business]
DS-160 – Previous Work/Education/Training Information page
IMPORTANT
Previous (previous work and education) and Additional (languages and travel history) are only asked for (1) all male applicants and (2) all applicants (male and female) from countries considered as questionable. Therefore, if you are a female applicant and you do not see these sections, it means you are not required to fill those sections. It’s normal, so do not panic.
Enter the following information in “Previous”
- Were you previously employed? [Comment: Select “Yes” if you have a previous employer and enter the details below | Select “No” if your current job is your first job or you are a student]
- Employer Name
- Employer Street Address (Line1)
- Employer Street Address (Line 2) *Optional
- City
- State/Province
- Postal Zone/Zip Code
- Country/Region
- Have you attended any educational institutions at a secondary level or above? [Comment: Select “Yes” and enter your educational background below]
- Name of Institution
- Street Address (Line 1)
- Street Address (Line 2) *Optional
- City
- State/Province
- Postal Zone/Zip Code
- Country/Region
- Course of Study [Comment: Enter your course of study or degree]
- Date of Attendance From [Comment: Enter your university/school course start date]
- Date of Attendance To [Comment: Enter your university/school course end date]
- Add Another [Comment: Use this option to enter details if you have multiple degrees or a master degree]
DS-160 – Additional Work/Education/Training Information page
Enter the following information in “Additional” section
- Do you belong to a clan or tribe? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” if you belong to a recognized clan or tribe and enter the details below]
- Provide a List of Languages You Speak
- Language Name [Comment: Enter the language that you speak]
- Add Another [Comment: Use this option to add more languages that you speak]
- Have you traveled to any countries/regions within the last five years?
- Provide a List of Countries/Regions Visited [Comment: Enter all the names of the countries you have traveled to so far, excluding the US and your home country]
- Country/Region [Comment: Enter the name of the country you have traveled to previously]
- Add Another [Comment: Use this option to add more countries that you have traveled]
- Have you belonged to, contributed to, or worked of any professional, social, or charitable organization? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if you are affiliated with a professional (IEEE, ACM, Bar Association, etc) or charitable (Red Cross, MSF) group and enter the details below]
- Do you have any specialized skills or training, such as firearms, explosives, nuclear, biological, or chemical experience? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if you were trained in using firearms, etc]
- Have you ever served in the military? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if you have served/serving in the military]
- Have you ever served in, been a member of, or been involved with a paramilitary unit, vigilante unit, rebel group, guerrilla group, or insurgent organization? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if you have been involved any of those groups and enter the details below]
NOTE
For “Provide a List of Languages You Speak”, enter all languages that you speak, even if you speak at a beginner level.
NOTE
For “Provide a List of Countries/Regions Visited”, enter all countries you have traveled to so far including your country of residence (if it’s not your country of passport). Exclude the US (if you have traveled to the US before), your country of passport and any country that you have merely passed through on a layover.
11. Security and Background
DS-160 – Security and Background: Part 1 page
Enter the following information in “Part 1”
- Do you have a communicable disease of public health significance? (Communicable diseases of public significance include chancroid, gonorrhea, granuloma inguinale, infectious leprosy, lymphogranuloma venereum, infectious stage syphilis, active tuberculosis, and others diseases as determined by the Department of Health and Human Services.) [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if you have any of those diseases]
- Do you have a mental or physical disorder that poses or is likely to pose a threat to the safety or welfare of yourself or others? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if you have mental or physical disorder]
- Are you or have you ever been a drug abuser or addict? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” only if you were a drug abuser or addict]
DS-160 – Security and Background: Part 2 page
Enter the following information in “Part 2”
- Have you ever been arrested or convicted for any offense or crime, even though subject of a pardon, amnesty, or other similar action? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you ever violated, or engaged in a conspiracy to violate, any law relating to controlled substances? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Are you coming to the United States to engage in prostitution or unlawful commercialized vice or have you been engaged in prostitution or procuring prostitutes within the past 10 years? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you ever been involved in, or do you seek to engage in, money laundering? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you ever committed or conspired to commit a human trafficking offense in the United States or outside the United States? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you knowingly aided, abetted, assisted or colluded with an individual who has committed or conspired to commit a severe human trafficking offense in the United States or outside the United States? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Are you the spouse, son, or daughter of an individual who has committed or conspired to commit a human trafficking offense in the United States or outside the United States and have you within the last five years, knowingly benefited from the trafficking activities? [Comment: Select “No”]
DS-160 – Security and Background: Part 3 page
Enter the following information in “Part 3”
- Do you seek to engage in espionage, sabotage, export control violations, or any other illegal activity while in the United States? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Do you seek to engage in terrorist activities while in the United States or have you ever engaged in terrorist activities? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you ever or do you intend to provide financial assistance or other support to terrorists or terrorist organizations? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Are you a member or representative of a terrorist organization? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you ever ordered, incited, committed, assisted, or otherwise participated in genocide?
[Comment: Select “No”] - Have you ever committed, ordered, incited, assisted, or otherwise participated in torture?
[Comment: Select “No”] - Have you committed, ordered, incited, assisted, or otherwise participated in extrajudicial killings, political killings, or other acts of violence? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you ever engaged in the recruitment or the use of the child soldiers? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you, while serving as a government official, been responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you ever been directly involved in the establishment or enforcement of the population controls forcing a woman to undergo an abortion against her free choice or a man or a woman to undergo sterilization against his or her free will? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you ever been directly involved in the coercive transplantation of human organs or bodily tissue? [Comment: Select “No”]
DS-160 – Security and Background: Part 4 page
Enter the following information in “Part 4”
- Have you ever been the subject of a removal or deportation hearing? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you ever sought to obtain or assist others to obtain a visa, entry into the United States, or any other United States immigration benefit by fraud or willful misrepresentation or other unlawful means? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you failed to attend a hearing on removability or inadmissibility within the last five years? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you ever been unlawfully present, overstayed the amount of time granted by an immigration official or otherwise violated the terms of a U.S. visa? [Comment: Select “No”]
DS-160 – Security and Background: Part 5 page
Enter the following information in “Part 5”
- Have you ever withheld custody of a U.S. citizen child outside the United States from a person granted legal custody by a U.S. court? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you voted in the United States in violation of any law or regulation? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you ever renounced United States citizenship for the purpose of avoiding taxation? [Comment: Select “No”]
- Have you attended a public elementary school on student (F) status or a public secondary school after November 30, 1996 without reimbursing the school? [Comment: Select “No”]
12. Photo
This section may not be available if applying in certain countries, ex: India, Mexico, etc. In such countries, photos are typically captured along with fingerprints by the visa application center or the consulate on the day of the visa interview appointment.
DS-160 – Upload Photo page
In the “Upload Photo” section, you will upload a passport size digital photo.
NOTE
If you have uploaded and tested your photo in “01. Getting Started” section, you will be taken directly to the “Confirm Photo” section.
DS-160 – Confirm Photo page
In the “Confirm Photo” section, you will see a preview of the photo you have uploaded. If you are satisfied with your photo, click on “Next: REVIEW”. Otherwise, click “Chose a Different Photo” to upload a different photo.
13. Review
In this section, you will review all the data you have entered so far. You will click on each of the following 7 subsections to review for accuracy and any mistakes in the data you have entered.
DS-160 – Review Personal, Address, Phone and Passport Information page
Review the entered information in “Personal/Address/Phone/Passport”
- Personal Information [Comment: If you see any mistakes in personal information, click on “Edit Personal Information” to fix the errors]
- Address and Phone Information [Comment: If you see any mistakes in address and phone information, click on “Edit Address and Phone Information” to fix the errors]
- Passport/Travel Document Information [Comment: If you see any mistakes in passport/travel document information, click on “Edit Passport/Travel Document Information” to fix the errors]
DS-160 – Review Travel Information page
Review the entered information in “Travel”
- Travel Information [Comment: If you see any mistakes in travel information, click on “Edit Travel Information” to fix the errors]
- Travel Companions Information [Comment: If you see any mistakes in travel companions information, click on “Edit Travel Companions Information” to fix the errors]
- Previous U.S. Travel Information [Comment: If you see any mistakes in previous US travel information, click on “Edit Previous U.S. Travel Information” to fix the errors]
DS-160 – Review U.S. Contact Information page
Review the entered information in “U.S. Contact”
- U.S. Point of Contact Information [Comment: If you see any mistakes in US point of contact information, click on “Edit U.S. Point of Contact Information” to fix the errors]
DS-160 – Review Family Information page
Review the entered information in “Family”
- Family Information: Relatives [Comment: If you see any mistakes family infomation relatives information, click on “Edit Family Information: Relatives” to fix the errors]
DS-160 – Review Work/Education/Training Information page
Review the entered information in “Work/Education/Training”
- Present Work Information [Comment: If you see any mistakes in present work information, click on “Edit Present Work Information” to fix the errors]
- Previous Work Information [Comment: If you see any mistakes in previous work information, click on “Edit Previous Work Information” to fix the errors]
- Additional Information [Comment: If you see any mistakes in additional information, click on “Edit Additional Information” to fix the errors]
DS-160 – Review Security and Background Information page
Review the entered information in “Security and Background”
- Part 1 [Comment: If you see any mistakes in part 1, click on “Edit Part 1” to fix the errors]
- Part 2 [Comment: If you see any mistakes in part 2, click on “Edit Part 2” to fix the errors]
- Part 3 [Comment: If you see any mistakes in part 3, click on “Edit Part 3” to fix the errors]
- Part 4 [Comment: If you see any mistakes in part 4, click on “Edit Part 4” to fix the errors]
- Part 5 [Comment: If you see any mistakes in part 5, click on “Edit Part 5” to fix the errors]
DS-160 – Review Location Information page
Review the entered information in “Location”
- Location [Comment: If you have made a mistake in selecting the location for your visa interview, click on “Edit Location Information” to select a different location]
14. Sign and Submit
DS-160 – Sign and Submit page
Enter the following information in “Sign and Submit Application”
- Preparer of Application
- Did anyone assist you in filling out this application? [Comment: Select “No” | Select “Yes” if a travel agent completed your application on your behalf]
- E-Signature
- Enter your Passport/Travel Document Number: [Comment: Enter your passport number]
- Enter the code as shown: [Comment: Enter the code shown in the captcha]
After entering the above information, click on “Sign and Submit Application” to electronically sign and submit your DS-160.
IMPORTANT
Once you click on “Sign and Submit Application”, you cannot make any more changes to your DS-160. If you notice any errors, then you have to fill a new application altogether. So, make sure all your information is correct and error-free before clicking on “Sign and Submit Application”.
After you click on “Sign and Submit Application”, the following confirmation is displayed.
“You have successfully signed and submitted your application. You cannot make any changes to your application at this point. Please click ‘Next: Confirmation’ to complete the application process”
Click on “Next: Confirmation” button to view and print your DS-160 confirmation.
15. Confirmation
DS-160 – Confirmation page
On this page, confirmation of your DS-160 will be displayed. You will see 3 options –
- Print Confirmation [Comment: Click this button to print DS-160 confirmation. A print of your DS-160 confirmation is required for your US visa interview]
- Print Application [Comment: Click this button to print a copy of DS-160 itself. This is for your records only. You do not need a DS-160 print for your interview]
- Email Confirmation [Comment: Click this button to email DS-160 confirmation. You can also print DS-160 confirmation from your email later]
Print DS-160 confirmation from this screen on an A4 or letter size paper. If not, at least print it to a PDF so you can have a copy. Email a copy to yourself as well so you can print it later if needed.
Also, print a copy of your DS-160 to PDF so you will have a copy of that too. Later down the line if you are applying/renewing the visa, you can upload this PDF to pre-populate the DS-160 form for you. It would save a ton of time.
***
That’s it, folks! Follow this step-by-step guide to fill your DS-160. If you have any questions or stuck at any step, just comment here or email me.
NEXT
After you complete and submit your DS-160, the next step would be to pay the MRV fee and schedule your US visa interview. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide on how to schedule US visa interview.
***
How to schedule US visa appointment- A step-by-step guide
How to travel 49 countries VISA-FREE with a US visa [2020 edition]
15 ways to get a travel itinerary for visa application
BM says
Hi All, I need urgent clarification, in Section 7 Previous U.S. Travel – Are you applying in the same country or location where the visa above was issued and is this country or location your place of principal of residence?.
I am an Indian citizen working in Singapore since 6 years not PR on a work visa and pay taxes in Singapore. I already have a B1/B2 visa issued in Singapore and now I am applying for H1B visa and would be attending a visa interview at Singapore.
What am I supposed to answer for the above question? Am I principle resident of Singapore or India? Should the answer be Yes or No?
Thirumal says
Hi BM! You must answer “Yes” to the above question. Your principal of residence (or country of residence) is Singapore since you’re on a work visa. Also, you are applying for your US visa at the same location (Singapore) as your previous visa. So, your answer must be “Yes”.
Czasel Bonifacio says
Hi! I will be applying for the US visa with my husband and 2 kids as my dependents. Do I need to fill up DS-160 for my husband? My kids’ ages are 13 and 7. Thank you very much!
Thirumal says
Hi Czasel! Yes, you have to fill DS-160 forms for each of your dependents. Start with your DS-160 form first and mention your husband and kids as your travel companions. After you submit your DS-160 form, you will see instructions on how to continue filling DS-160 forms for your husband and kids. If you follow those instructions, most of the data from your DS-160 will be copied over to their forms, which makes the processes a lot easier and quicker.
Czasel says
Thank you very much! I already did our DS-160 and booked an appointment. But I did a mistake in providing the Confirmation number of my husband on cgifederal website. I put my confirmation number, not his. How can I correct it?
Also, my husband is one of my dependents but in DS-160, he answered that he will pay for his expenses. Is that okay? Thank you very much.
Thirumal says
Once you schedule your appointment in cgifederal, you cannot change your DS-160 confirmation. The only way to update DS-160 confirmation number is to cancel your appointment and reschedule. If you do that, you may not find the dates you like. Therefore, I suggest the below approach.
Have your husband fill a new DS-160. Have him carry both his OLD DS-160 confirmation and NEW DS-160 confirmation with him to the appointment. At the time of the interview, have your husband present his NEW DS-160 confirmation and tell the visa officer that he updated his DS-160 after scheduling the appointment. The visa officer will then use his NEW DS-160. This is a perfectly acceptable approach.
Yes, it’s fine. You can add him (or he adds you) as a dependent in cgifedaral. This is only to schedule a family interview, nothing to do with trip expenses. In your DS-160s, you will mention who will pay for whom.
Muhammad Ali says
Hi! Thanks for putting this all together. It was really very helpful and nicely done. I have a quick question though. I’m about the complete DS-160 application for my dad and would want to complete one for my mom as well right after this one. I wanted to make sure the interview is scheduled on the same day for both of them. How do I do that? They are not traveling as part of a group or organization therefore I chose “NO” where this question was asked.
Since they will be traveling together (I answered in one of the questions on the form) but since most of the information I completed on my dad’s form will remain the same on my mom’s form too. What should I do to ensure that information from my dad’s form is auto-populated on my mom’s form? Thank you and look forward to a prompt answer with screenshots details that you have provided here in this guide.
Thirumal says
Hi Muhammad Ali! Follow the below steps to have your mom’s DS-160 auto-populated with information from your dad’s.
– Start with your dad’s DS-160. Add your mom as his travel companion.
– After submitting your dad’s DS-160 form, on the “thank you” page, you will be given the option to create the DS-160 form for your mom.
– Follow the on-screen instructions from there on. All common information such as travel dates, companions, etc will be copied over to your mom’s DS-160 form.
– I will soon add some screenshots to the article on how to do this.
Follow the steps below to schedule a single visa appointment for your mom and dad
– Create a profile/account for your dad (primary applicant) in US Travel Docs (refer to my article on scheduling the visa appointment for steps)
– Add your mom as a “dependent”
– On the payment page, you will be given a single receipt number and the total visa fee amount (for your dad and mom together) to be paid
– You must make the total visa fee payment for that receipt number
– When the receipt number becomes active, you will be able to schedule a single appointment for both your mom and dad
– On the day of the appointment, both your mom and dad must arrive at the consulate on the scheduled time and they both will be interviewed together
Yin Yin Kyi says
Hi! How to apply for double entry? We can’t find in the travel section.
Thirumal says
Hi Yin! You cannot select the “entry” for your US visa. All US visas are by default “multiple-entry”. When your US visa is issued, it will already be multiple-entry.
Rufael says
Good day! Please, I am finding difficult my confirmation number of both DS-160 confirmation page and my US visa appointment confirmation page. They are completely different because I was once denied. I tried to open a new account but it says I have to link up with the old account and that I will get a different confirmation number. How can I fix this problem?
Thirumal says
Hi Rufael! The customer service at US Travel Docs can help you with linking your old and new accounts. But if you don’t mind canceling and rescheduling your appointment, you will be able to update the DS-160 confirmation number yourself. Either way, ask the customer service first on the recommended option.
Pawan Anand says
Hi Thirumal, I am an Indian citizen currently working in Brussels, Belgium. Last week my H1B got approved. Currently, I don’t have any plans to visit India. Can I apply for the US visa from Brussels? I mean in form DS-160, can I fill my local address of Brussels and select Brussels to attend the visa interview? Are there any challenges in this regard? Is there any chance of rejection?
Thirumal says
Hi Pawan! Yes, you can use your local address and attend your visa interview in Brussels. US visa can be applied from anywhere including your country of residence. Belgium is your country of residence since you work/live there. H1B visa has dual intent so you won’t be scrutinized on your ties with Belgium or India either. So I say, go ahead and good luck.
James says
I am just visiting the USA from the UK as a tourist for 5 to 7 days. So in the travel section, do I just choose b1/b2 as my reason for the visit, in the pulldown box “business pleasure tourism”?
Thirumal says
Hi James! Yes. Select “Business Pleasure Tourism” and “B1/B2”.
Kish says
What if I missed updating the close relative (child) information in DS-160 while applying for parents’ visitor visa, will it be a problem? How to face it in the interview if any question raised regarding children residing in the US? Thanks much for your response in advance.
Thirumal says
Hi Kish! Holding off or not declaring information about your child could affect your visa result. I suggest creating a new DS-160 or updating your existing DS-160 with your child’s information. This will generate a new DS-160 confirmation. Print and carry both your old DS-160 confirmation and new DS-160 confirmation to your interview. At the time of your interview, handover your new DS-160 confirmation to the visa officer. The visa officer will use your new DS-160 for your visa interview.
Chaitanya says
Hi! For the question “Have you traveled to any countries/regions within the last five years?”. Do we need to include transit airports as well (transit through an airport to board a connecting flight)?
Thirumal says
Hi Chaitanya! No. You will not include transit airports for that question. You have to enter only those countries that you have entered physically seeking entry at the port of entry (using a visa/visa on arrival or visa exemption).
Cecil says
Hi, I am planning to apply for the renewal of my visa. The last time I entered the USA (2009), I got deported. The order stated, “you are an immigrant not in possession of a valid unexpired passport, or other suitable travel documents, or document of identity and nationality.” I was not allowed to enter the US for 5 years. I already served the 5 years ban. My family lives in California, I am the only one here and build my family here. Do you think I will be able to get a new B1/B2 visa? Thank you.
Thirumal says
Hi Cecil! A B1/B2 is a nonimmigrant visa. Your future B1/B2 applications will be scrutinized since the immigration officers have believed that you have immigration intent. My knowledge and experience are not sufficient to address your situation. I suggest taking the help of an immigration lawyer.
shoaib Safder says
On which page of DS-160 they ask about our travel history for last 10 years?
Thirumal says
Hi Shoaib! In “10. Work / Education / Training”, you will be asked to enter your previous employment, education and travel history. You have to enter your travel history for the last 5 years (not 10 years). Keep in mind that his section “10. Work / Education / Training” is applicable to all male applicants and female applicants of certain countries. If you don’t see this section, do not worry. You are probably not required to provide this info.
Adeel Mushtaque says
Kindly help me to fill DS-0156-E form for non-immigration business treaty visa. Waiting for your reply.
Thirumal says
Hi Adeel! Unfortunately, I never filled a DS-156E myself and I have no idea what information is needed for that form.
Michelle says
Hi. Your website is very informative and helpful. I have a few questions that I need help with.
1. The first time I was denied a visa was 30 years ago. Do I need to state ‘yes’ to the question? I cannot even remember why I was denied. Or if I was even given a reason.
2. The first time I visited the US which was about 25 years ago, a friend carried me to the DMV in New York and I got a non-drivers ID Card. Should I tick yes as to the U.S. Driver’s License question?
3. On my last two trips to the United States I would of spent about 7 days in the United States and then left on a cruise to a few countries for 7 days the first time and the second time I went on a trip to Europe for 10 days with my relative who resides in the United States and then of course we would of return to the United States where I would of spent about 7 days the first time before going back home to my country and the second time I spent one night before returning home to my country due to an emergency (death of my mother). In a case like this do I say that I was in the States for let’s say 18 days or do I state I was there for 7 days, 1 day, etc?
Thirumal says
Hi Michelle! Thanks!
1. You have to state “yes” to that question and explain your visa refusal. You don’t have to provide specifics like dates, etc. Just mentioning that you were denied a US visa about 30 years ago would be sufficient.
2. You have to tick “no”. That question is specific to US driver’s license.
3. You have to state that you there for 7 days, 1 day, etc. You have to mention each visit, even if it’s only for 1 day. If you don’t remember the exact dates, just entering approximate dates should be fine.
Dr Nath says
Hi Thirumal! Greeting! I am an Indian citizen, permanent resident of Hyderabad and working in Libya for the last 25 years until present. I am holding a valid B1/B2 visa with validity up to 29 June 2020, ***place of issue at Tripoli(Libya) ***. I would like to renew the visa in India to visit my son in the US. My son is a permanent resident of the US. My question to you is, am I eligible for the interview waiver program (IWP)? Kindly provide me information on how to proceed further.
Thirumal says
Hi Dr Nath! In order to become eligible for an interview waiver in India, your current/previous visa must have been issued in India. Since the US consulate in Libya is not operating anymore, you may be eligible for the interview waiver in India under special circumstances. I suggest contacting the US Travel Docs customer support in India to see what they can do.
REYAN YOUSUF says
Hi Thirumal, I have a question. While filling my DS-160, I added my brother as my travel companion. However, he will not be able to join me for the trip. Now shall I fill a complete new DS-160 or what? Also to let you know my wife and child will be still traveling with me whom I have added as travel companion too.
Thirumal says
Hi Reyan! If you haven’t scheduled your visa appointment yet, I suggest filling a new DS-160 to not include your brother as a travel companion. When filling a new one, you can upload your current DS-160. This will auto-populate all the information. You can then edit the travel companions section and submit it. Then take the print of the new DS-160 confirmation.
Imelda says
My sister is filling her DS-160 and the lost passport question came up. She lost her old expired passport from 1994 after it had expired. She is not sure how to answer the question as to whether it applies to a valid passport or does it apply to losing an old expired passport. Your advice would be appreciated.
Thirumal says
Hi Imelda! It only applies to a valid passport. If you had lost your passport while it was valid (unexpired), then you would mention. You don’t have to mention your old/expired passport since you lost it after it had expired.
Rohan says
Hi Thirumal, thanks for the quick response. This issue has been occurring from this Sunday. Just in case if I have to contact the technical team, could you please provide me the link on where can I find this information? This will be helpful.
Thirumal says
Hi Rohan! It’s a bit tricky to contact CEAC (Consular Electronic Application Center). There are a couple of options –
1. Contact your nearest US consulate. Let them know your issue and they will alert the technical team of CEAC.
2. Contact the National Visa Center (NVC) on their US phone number. There is no email/online form, so calling them is the only option and the wait times can be longer. Go to US Visas Contacts page, look up for the phone number next to “I would like to apply for a nonimmigrant visa”.
Rohan says
Hi Thirumal, I am facing a unique issue with my DS-160 and not sure if someone else has encountered the same. The issue I am observing is on the “Security and Background” section Part 3. In this part, there are 12 questions for which I have answered as “No”. I then save this form and move to the next part. If at any time I come back to part 3, I see that my answers for questions 11 and 12 are undone. No matter how many times I select my answer and save, it’s not getting saved. Now when I go to the “Review” section and check my answers for the same part, questions 11 and 12 are replaced completely with two new questions and it has my answers as “No”. I am not sure how this is happening. Due to this, I have not submitted my DS-160. Please let me know if this is expected or this may an issue with the site.
Thirumal says
Hi Rohan! I haven’t seen this issue myself or heard from any of the readers. This could be an issue with the website itself. Their technical team is fairly quick in resolving such issues. If you are not in a hurry, I suggest giving it a couple of days and trying again.
Jasmine says
Hi Thirumal, I have a 3 month 2 entries B1/B2 visa. I already use it one time. My visa will expire on Nov 30. Now I want to apply for 1 year renewal visa. Is it ok? And how to apply?
Thirumal says
Hi Jasmine! US visa renewal depends on nationality, visa expiry and location. Therefore, it’s difficult to say whether you can renew your visa or have to apply for a fresh one. You will know whether you qualify for visa renewal only while scheduling your visa appointment. You have to first fill you DS-160, pay the visa fee and schedule your visa appointment. While scheduling your visa appointment, you will be asked a few questions on your current US visa and the system will determine whether you qualify for visa renewal. If you do not qualify, the system will walk you through the steps to schedule your appointment for the interview.
Rain says
Hi Thirumal, I am filling out the DS-160 for my son and in the Travel Companions Information, I need to add his sibling but there is no option for sibling under Relationship with Person. These are the only option: Parent, Spouse, Child, Other Relative, Friend, Business Associate, Other. Do I choose Other Relative?
Thirumal says
Hi Rain! Yes, you can choose Other Relative (or Other) for the relationship. This will not affect their visa result. So, no need to worry.
Simret says
Hi Thirumal, I’m living in the US for the last 8 months and now I’m starting to fill out the DS-160 non-immigrant visa application form for my mother. I’m not working. I’m just spending my time by taking care of my son but my husband is working. So do u think this gonna work out? Because since I’m new for the country what reason can she give to come to me as a visitor?
Thirumal says
Hi Simret! You being new in the US is not an issue. What’s important is your mother being able to prove that she has strong ties with her country and she has a reason to come back to her country after her trip to the US. If she is over retirement age and has strong ties with her country (family, employment, assets, etc.) then she has a fair chance of securing the visa.
P.sagar says
Purpose of the trip to the US
a. temp . business pleasure visitor (B)
Specify
a. Business & Tourism(temporary visitor) (B1/B2)
My question: I am an Indian residing in U.A.E so applying for a tourist visa. Is the info same as specified and should be input same as given by you? And also do we get an appointment in 7-15 days? Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Sagar! Yes. Those two options are correct if your purpose of travel is “tourism”. Appointment availability varies from city to city, so it’s difficult to say if you will get an appointment in 7-15 days. I suggest checking the current wait times for the consulates in UAE and scheduling your appointment at the consulate where the wait times are shorter.
Madhu says
Hi, I am filling the DS-160 form for my family. What should I answer to the question did someone assist you in filling the form. Should I check Yes or No?
Thirumal says
Hi Madhu! If you are also one of the applicants and going for the interview together with your family, then check “Yes” and enter your details. Otherwise, check “No”.
SHAMIM AFTAB says
This is Shamim! I want to apply with my family. Will I have to fill this form 4 times – 2 child, 1 wife, and myself? Regards.
Thirumal says
Hi Shamim! Yes, you have to fill a DS-160 form for each of your family members. That is 2 for your children, 1 for your wife and 1 for yourself.
I suggest starting with your own DS-160 first. Add your wife and children as your travel companions. After submitting your DS-160 form, on the “thank you” page, you will be given the option to create DS-160 form for your wife and children. Follow the on-screen instructions from there, some of the common information (such as travel dates, companions, etc) will be copied over to your wife and children DS-160 forms. It saves you time and helps you avoid making mistakes.
Sreeni says
Hi Thirumal! Really appreciate the kind of effort you put here and helping all, God Bless!
I have 2 questions but they are with regards to H1 & H4 Visa though, if you are able to answer I will be really grateful to you but if you can’t that’s still fine and I can understand. You are doing Awesome job though!
1. For Drop Box option, I see one of the qualifying questions is if my previous visa is expired within the last 12 months. It’s actually Nov 3rd 2018 and approved extension. Visiting India for a vacation trip. So to calculate this 12 month eligibility should I calculate the time from the date I submit DS-160 online which will be now or calculate from the date I intend to schedule the appointment to drop off which will be around mid or end of Nov?
2. If I am eligible for Dropbox, Would I be able to do dropbox for my wife as well who is in H4 and if she also qualifies all the above criteria? or else she needs to go for an in-person interview?
Thank you soo much in advance.
Sreeni
Thirumal says
Hi Sreeni!
1. The day on which you submit your request for “interview waiver” will be used. For example, while scheduling your visa appointment, you will be asked questions on your previous visa and it’s expiry. Then the system will determine that you qualify for the interview waiver. You will then pay the fee and submit your request for dropbox. The day on which you submit this request must be within 1 year of your previous visa expiry.
2. I’m not sure about this. If you are scheduling a family appointment, I believe both of you must qualify for interview waiver. If one of you don’t, then I think you both have to appear for the interview. This may not apply if scheduling the appointments individually.
A few things to keep in mind if opting for dropbox.
– Usually, you will not be given a date on which you have to drop the documents off. You can drop off your documents anytime. There may be a final date within which you have to drop your documents off.
– The VAC will receive your packages and send them to the consulate on your behalf. There is no guarantee that the consulate will open your packages right away. Therefore, make sure you have enough time for the consulate to process your visa and send the passports back.
– The consulate can still ask you to appear for the interview. Therefore, make sure you have enough time on your schedule for such unexpected events.
Camille says
Hi. I was not able to sign the DS-160 form and already submitted and got a confirmation number. What should I do?
Thirumal says
Hi Camille! If you have already submitted your application, then you don’t need to worry. Either your electronic signature is not required or already taken.
hopeful says
Hi Sir Thirumal, please help me. I have a niece in the USA and so I have to put her name in the immediate relatives’ section. The problem is there’s no selection that says niece there. I can only find spouse, fiance/fiancee, child and sibling. And one more question, are my brother and sister-in-law considered immediate relatives? Do I also have to put their names in the DS-160. Thank you so much and more power.
Thirumal says
Hi Hopeful! Niece is not an immediate relative. Enter her details in “other relatives”. Brother is an immediate relative, so enter his details in “immediate relative” as “sibling”.
Hopeful says
Hi sir, big thanks for the idea. One more clarification, are my brother-in-law and sister-in-law considered my immediate relatives? Thanks!
Thirumal says
No. They will be “other relatives”. Immediate relatives are only parents, siblings, children or spouse.
SIRAJ says
Hi Sir! Your pages are very helpful and I have gone through your tips to fill my DS-160 US VISA APPLICATION (Not yet submitted) and I have some questions.
1. Actually, I was employed since 1996 till 2010 with 4 employers. How many employment details should I mention in “WERE YOU PREVIOUSLY EMPLOYED?”. My last employment is enough to fill that field or have to fill all employer details?
2. My wife traveled/visited UAE in 2011. Shall I mention that trip in the field: WITHIN 5 YEARS VISITED COUNTRY” (Because she visited 8 years before).
3. Name & Address of the person or Organization in US field what should I fill? Because I have no relatives/friends in the US. If I book a Hotel shall I mention that? Can you please suggest/list any HOTEL who will do the booking with refundable payment if visa not granted.
4. Now I’m in Chennai having own Rental Properties getting RENTAL INCOME so that what should I mention in the field: What’s your primary occupation? (I’m 52 years old = now not employed or not doing any other business)
Appreciate your reply. Thank you so much.
Thirumal says
Hi Siraj!
1. The DS-160 form accepts up to 2 previous employments. Therefore, you must mention your last 2 previous employments.
2. No. That trip was 8 years ago. She has to mention the countries she has traveled only within the last 5 years.
3. Yes. You can mention the hotel details. Book a refundable hotel using Booking.com or Expedia. There are plenty of hotels with “refundable” option on those two websites.
4. Rental income is “passive” income which makes you a “self-employed”. But if you have several rental properties then you can be categorized as a “business owner”. I suggest selecting OTHER for primary occupation and explaining that you are (a) renting your personal property or (b) you have a property rental business.
sam says
Hi Thirumal, I have a job offer and want to apply for H visa but I do not know which visa I have to choose. I am an electronics engineer and my job offer is in this field. Whether an H1B visa is suitable for my case?
Could you please tell me which documents I need to show at the interview at the U.S embassy? I have a list but not sure it is true or not. Let me know if it is enough and true.
1- Passport.
2- DS-160 Forms.
3- US embassy Visa interview appointment confirmation.
4- Form i797A or B (H1B approval notice).
5- Form i129 (H1B application)
6- H1B LCA copy
7- Employment verification letter
8- Last 3 months Pay stubs.
Also, I want to know about the I797A or I797B, Which form I have to complete? i797A or i797B? And could you please tell me instead of last 3 months pay stubs, can I show my bank statements? Because I am a self-employed engineer and I work for myself.
Best regards,
Sam.
Thirumal says
Hi Sam! You haven’t mentioned whether you must be “physically present in the US” to work for your new US employer. If yes, then H1B is the correct visa type for you.
In order for you to travel to the US and start working for your new US employer, your new US employer has to file an H1B petition on your behalf at USCIS. Once the H1B petition is approved, an approval notice called “I-797” will be sent to the employer. It will be an I-797B since you have to appear at a US consulate for your visa. I-797A is for those who are changing employers within the US and do not have to appear in-person at a US consulate.
Keep in mind that you would need the I-797B “original” to appear for a visa interview at the US consulate in your country. Your document list looks perfect. You do not need paystubs, but I suggest carrying the following additional documents for your visa interview –
– Self-employment registration (if you have)
– Last 3 months bank statements
– A copy of your current resume
– All educational transcripts/certificate
Good luck!
Neha says
If I am applying for B1 visa from Canada but I am an Indian citizen, where does my current Canada status (work permit) reflect in the form? Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Neha! Your current status in Canada will not reflect in your DS-160. You have to select the location where will be applying for the visa, but your status in that location is not relevant for DS-160. But, the visa officer may ask about your current status during your visa interview.
Nusayba says
Hello, I was wondering, under step 10, number 2. Do I need to give my entire education background, starting from primary school? or Can I just provide them with my latest education degree which is in my case, my undergraduate degree?
Thirumal says
Hi Nusayba! Primary school information is not required. But you would need to provide your educational background from high school onwards. Start from your latest education degree and work backward till your high school (or higher secondary). In your case, enter your undergrad details first. Then click on “add another” to add your high school details.
ashar.as says
Hi Sir! Need your opinion and help on B1/B2 visa. I was denied a B1/B2 visa recently, I wanted to visit my aunt who lives in the US. I chose self as sponsor, also provided the details correctly. My salary is well above average. Not many questions were asked from me and I was handed the 214(b) refusal slip. Now the situation is that my organization wants me to apply for B1/B2 to attend a meeting in the US. I’m not sure how this time I can increase my chances since I have already been refused less than 10 days ago. Plus, the VO would already know everything about having applied same visa previously with different intent. I’m really in a fix.
Thirumal says
Hi Ashar! Employment and financial income cannot be the reasons for your visa refusal since you are employed and earn a good salary. Therefore, I assume the reasons for your visa refusal could be lack of travel history or family/social ties. Lack of travel history can pose a problem for your business visa as well. Improving your travel history can definitely improve your chances of securing the US visa.
Secondly, go through your old DS-160. Since you weren’t asked many questions, the VO made the decision based on your DS-160. Identify any inaccuracies, unclear and missing information, etc. in your old DS-160. Make sure you fix those in your new DS-160.
rasy says
Dear Thirumal Sir, I started to fill the Work/Education/Training section in DS-160 application form. I filled current employment details and after that, it directly goes to security and background option. Please advise me why I didn’t get the option to fill my education and previous employment details.
Thirumal says
Hi Rasy! Previous Work and Education are not required for female applicants from certain countries. Previous Work and Education details are required for (a) all male applicants and (b) all applicants (both male and female) from countries considered as questionable. If they are not shown on your form, it’s normal and no need to worry. Just fill your current employment details and then security and background information.
Helen Cayabyab says
Hi Thirumal, I am happy to come across your page and it is highly informative. I’m currently filling up my DS 160, and noticed the following changes (in comparison with the steps provided in your page):
1. “Social Media presence” is an addition to the form.
2. The “Education” section where an applicant will provide the details of his educational background was removed from the form.
3. The employment section does not provide the “previous employment details” section. If for example, I am working one full time and one part-time, what is your best advice on this matter? There is no part in the form where I can provide the part-time details of my employment. Thus, if I am earning, for example, a total of 35k for both jobs, do you think it is worthy to indicate this as my ‘monthly income’ taking into consideration that the source of this income would as it likely appear in the form is from my full-time employment alone.
Thanks and looking forward to hearing from you.
Kind regards
Helen
Thirumal says
Hi Helen!
1. Social Media is a new addition to the DS-160 form. I haven’t explored this new update yet and therefore it’s not in this step-by-step guide. I will add the screenshots and steps soon.
2. Previous Work and Education are not required for female applicants from certain countries. Previous Work and Education details are required for (a) all male applicants and (b) all applicants (both male and female) from countries considered as questionable. If they are not shown on your form, it’s normal and no need to worry.
3. Usually, I would ask my readers to put their part-time job/second full-time job/internship in the “Previous Work” with the job end date as today. But since the “Previous Work” section is not shown in your form, you can’t mention your part-time job.
If the income from your part-time job is not significant, I suggest mentioning your full-time job in your current occupation and the income from your full-time job as your “monthly income”.
Do not combine the incomes since there is no way for you to show your part-job. If at all the consulate contacts your employer, it can lead to issues.
Amira Kurmemovic says
Hi, very thorough write-up, much appreciated!
I am applying for a B1/B2 visa and I have one question concerning the part 07. Previous U.S. Travel / Question Q: Have you ever been issued a U.S. Visa? I have already been to USA in 2008. Since then I have renewed my passport and now I do not have the visa number nor the exact issue date. I don’t know whether I should answer “yes” or “no” in this case.
Many thanks in advance!
Kind regards,
Amira
Thirumal says
Hi Amira! You have to answer “Yes” to that question and provide your previous US visa details. Answering “No” would be considered as “lying” since the US visa officers can see your previous US visa details in their system. Therefore, answer “Yes” and try the following –
– Try your best to search and find your old passport.
– If you can’t find your old passport, see if you can at least find a scanned copy of your old US visa somewhere.
– If you can’t find even that, enter an “approximate date” for “Date Last Visa Was Issued” and check “Do Not Know” for “Visa Number”.
Amira says
Hi Thirumal,
Thank you very much for your help!
I will enter an approximate date and check « do not know » for visa number. Hope it will work.
Thank you once again.
Wish you a wonderful day!
Amira
Thirumal says
Yes. Good luck!
sam says
Wonderful information centre. Good job Sir. Please I need some information.
1. What is/are the chances of expatiates working in UAE (i.e. from other countries) getting B1/B2 visas approved when they apply in UAE?
2. How do I add wife in my B1/B2 application?
3. Does accompanying wife WITH NO JOB YET have a chance of being granted visa when we apply together?
4. Peradventure the visa is issued, is it necessary to tell the VO during the interview that WE INTEND TO USE THE VISA FOR CHILDBIRTH IN THE FUTURE?
Thanks as I anticipate your response. Cheers.
Thirumal says
Hi Sam!
1. The chances are higher if you have been living in the UAE for a few years. Residence in UAE for a few years shows that you have already established strong ties with the UAE. But if you have recently moved to the UAE, you have fewer chances. They would assume that you will remain in the US and will not return to the UAE.
2. You have to fill two separate DS-160s. One for you and one for your wife. Start with your own DS-160 first. Once you submit your DS-160 form, you will see an option “Email Confirmation”. When you select this option, you will be taken to a “Thank you” page. On this page, you will have the option to create another DS-160 form for your wife. This way, some of the data from your DS-160 will be copied over to your wife’s DS-160. This saves time and avoids making any errors.
When scheduling your appointment, you can schedule one appointment for both you and your wife. It’s called a family appointment.
3. It should not be a problem as long as you (primary applicant) demonstrate that you have strong ties with UAE.
4. No. You don’t have to.
sam says
Good. All replies noted. Thank you once again.
Cheers.
Akber says
I have two questions:
1) I made a minor mistake, my spelling is Akber which is as per my new passport, PR and bank statement but 8 years back I was issued US visa with the spelling of “Akbar”. I have forgotten to mention other names in the form. Is there any issue?
2) I put my email as xxx@homail.com instead of hotmail but I have provided alternate email for receipt of confirmation. Is there any issue of providing falsify info. I want to pay fee today online please advise as soon as possible.
Thirumal says
Hi Akber!
1) This is not an issue since you have mentioned about your previous US visas in the form. If the VO has to check on your previous visas, they can use the visa number to verify.
2) This is also not an issue as it’s simply a typo. It’s great if you can edit or create a new DS-160 by fixing your typo. If you cannot, I still don’t see any issue.
Tati says
Thank you for your quick response. I have another question when filling out the form DS-160 is there any place to fill an explanation of the purpose of the trip? I was planning to fill an explanation of the purpose of the trip in the form so that it would back up what she is gonna say in the interview. My plan is to bring my mother because I am giving birth soon. I want to fill out this in the form but I don’t see any place for it. Thank you!!!
Thirumal says
Hi Tati! There is no field to add an explanation for the purpose of the trip. She will be asked at the interview and she has to explain her purpose of the trip to the visa officer. I suggest preparing your mother on the following questions
– Why do you want to go to the US?
– How long do you plan to stay in the US?
– Have you been to the US before?
– Have you been to other countries?
– What do you do for a living?
Also, a few questions on your status in the US as well.
enoch says
I am applying for a B1/B2 visa together with my son who is below 1 year. Do I have to fill a separate DS-160 form or there is an alternative where I can fill my information and move to another page where I can fill the information for my son so that both of us can have the information on the same form and print out?
Thirumal says
Hi Enoch! There is no such option. You have to fill two separate DS-160s, one for you and one for your son. But there is an option to copy some of the data from your DS-160 to your son’s DS-160. Start with your own DS-160 first. Once you submit your DS-160 form, you will see an option “Email Confirmation”. When you select this option, you will be taken to a “Thank you” page. On this page, you will have the option to create another DS-160 form for a family member. This way, some of the data from your DS-160 will be copied over to your son’s DS-160. This saves time and avoids making any errors.
Yes. When you select “Email Confirmation” on your Confirmation Page, you will be directed to a “Thank You” page. On the “Thank You” page you will see an option to create a family or group application. When you select this option, certain information from your application, such as destination, will automatically be imported to and displayed on a new application. Please note that if you use this option you must create an individual application for each family member or for each individual within the group.
Rajendra says
Hi Sir, I am filling DS-160 form and need help.
1) “Have you ever been refused a U.S. Visa, been refused admission to the United States, or withdrawn your application for admission at the point of entry?” Under this, when I applied in 2003, the first time it was rejected (reason unknown). The second time in 2003 itself I got 10 years US visa up to 2013. What should I disclose then? Also, I do know the exact date and reason for rejection of first time.
2) WERE YOU PREVIOUSLY EMPLOYED? EMPLOYER NAME. Do we need to fill the last previous employer name or any previous employer name? I am working at the present employer from 2015. Previous to this I worked only one year with the previous employer 2014 to 2015 and previous to that I worked from 2000 – 2013 with another employer. So what should I choose?
3) Can they re-issue the visa without the interview process? Since I already had 10 years visa. Any possibility?
Thirumal says
Hi Rajendra!
1) You have to mention your visa refusal from 2003 in your DS-160. Select “Yes” and explain in the “Explain” box. If you don’t remember the exact reason, just say that you don’t know the reason. Also, add that you have been given a visa in the same year. Here is an example:
“I have been refused a B1/B2 visa application in June 2003. I do not remember the reason for the refusal. But I have been issued a 10 year B1/B2 in August 2003.”
2) Yes. You have to enter the 2 previous employments. Follow the steps in “10. Work / Education / Training” under “Previous”. Enter your first previous employment (2014-2015). Then click on “add another” to add your next previous employment (2000-2013).
3) You will qualify for the interview waiver if you are renewing your visa before it’s expired or within 1 year of expiry. Since your visa was expired in 2013, you will not qualify for interview waiver. You have to appear in person at the consulate for the visa interview.
hopeful says
Hi sir Thirumal, I just have a question, I am recently finishing my DS-160. Is it okay not to put the exact date of the school year because I can’t anymore remember only the month and year? Is it a big deal for the consul to not consider my visa application if I leave the date blank?
Thirumal says
Hi Hopeful! Yes. You can use the approxiate date for your school. As long as the year and month are accurate, you are fine.
Hopeful says
Hi sir, thank you for the enlightenment! I still have some questions. My husband has worked in a computer company as a computer technician with two owners since 1998 until one of the owners of the company migrated to Canada in 2008. One of the owners of the said company offered me and my husband to be one of the stockholders together with the two of our friends so we are five stockholders/owners in all. We also agreed to change the company name.
After six years (2014) the original owner of our company also migrated to the USA so we change again the name of the company almost near of the old company name example: the first one was technics and the present is Teqnics. The problem also is all of the three companies has the same address. My question is: is this a big deal to the consul? Will my husband be scrutinized on this part? Thanks sir Thirumal I am so confused.
Thirumal says
No. This won’t be a problem at all. Companies acquire, merge, rebrand, dissolve, etc. Your husband has to use his latest job title and the current company name in his DS-160. Example below –
Employer Name: Teqnics, Inc.
Job Title: Chief Technology Officer
Job Duration: 1998 – to date
adt says
Hi sir thanks again for the help. I have finished filling up my DS-160. I got confused because at the thank you page of the DS-160 I selected create family application/group application so I can fill up my wife’s DS-160. Was it the correct procedure or I have to select the create new application? My sis-in-law is in the US, is she considered my immediate relatives? Thanks in advance sir.
Thirumal says
Yes. That’s the correct procedure. You select the option to create a family or group application and you continue from there.
Tati says
Hi Thirumal, my mother was denied a B1/B2 visa due to act 214(b). In her interview, she was asked if she has kids she said no. But she has two kids. My question is can she say she has two kids for a second attempt or do they have a record of what she said in the first interview?
Thirumal says
Hi Tati! They will have a record of what she said in the first interview. If she answered “no” by mistake and she was not given enough time to correct herself, then she can definitely explain this in her second attempt. She just has to be quick enough to explain why she made a mistake in her previous interview.
Jane says
Hello Thirumal! Thank you for your selfless service. You are one of a kind.
I am applying for an F1 visa but confused on the address I should use on my DS-160 as accommodations aren’t open for 2020 spring and I have no friends/relatives that I can stay within the school city. Is it safe to use the school address or should I book hotel accommodation? Please suggest the best option. Secondly, I’m supposed to resume 31st Dec 2019, is it too early to schedule an interview in September? Please clarify. Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Jane! Yes. Use your school address for your stay as you will eventually stay at the school accommodation. If the topic comes up during your visa interview, you can explain that the accommodations aren’t open at the time of filling DS-160 and therefore, you had to use the school address.
No. It’s not too early at all. The appointment wait times are quite long at most US consulates these days. Complete your visa application as soon as you can as you need time to schedule your appointment, attend your visa interview, pick up your passport and book your flight tickets. It takes time and 4 months is just enough.
Jane says
Thanks a lot Thirumal. I will keep you updated.
Francis says
Hi Thirumal, I am a student applying for J1-student visa. However, I am currently working for a company as an intern, since my study program requires to carry out an internship in an industry. I am still enrolled as a student at my university, and so will I be after my internship finishes, but I will still be working as an intern at the time of the visa appointment. Is it fine to insert Student as my primary occupation, and then the internship in the previous work? The problem is that the system won’t let you set an end date later than yesterday.
Thanks a lot!
Thirumal says
Hi Francis! Yes. You should select “STUDENT” as your primary occupation since that’s your primary focus. You can then add your internship as your previous work with yesterday as end date. If the topic comes up during your visa interview, you can explain to the visa officer that you are still interning as it’s a requirement for your study program.
VKSWAMY IYER says
I have filed DS-160 Form and paid required US Visa Fee and taken an appointment for drop of my passport at US Consulate in India. After taken appointment recently I changed my employer and H1B approval also received. Can I change my employer in my previously filed DS-160 Form? Is it mandatory to take a fresh appointment for stamping or can I keep the original appointment date? Please clarify.
Thirumal says
Hi VKSwamy!
Option 1: This is what you would do for an “in-person” visa appointment. You will edit or fill a new DS-160. It will generate a new confirmation, which you will print and carry with you. At the visa interview, you will hand over your new DS-160 confirmation, I-797 and passport. The visa officer will scan the barcode on your new DS-160 confirmation and will use that DS-160 for your interview.
I cannot confirm if this approach works for dropbox. Neither myself nor any of the readers have tried this for dropbox.
Option 2: Cancel your current appointment. Then all fields in your US Trave Docs profile will become editable. You can then update the DS-160 confirmation number with the new one. But, neither myself nor any of the readers have tried rescheduling a dropbox appointment.
Option 3: Contact US Trave Docs customer service. They are usually very helpful in such matters. They may be able to provide a solution. Please let us also know if that solution works for you.
Phil says
Hi Thirumal! Last year after applying for a B1/B2 visa thru the Interview Waiver Program, I received a letter from the embassy stating that I was no longer eligible since I submitted the requirements a day late. However, they said that I may still use the visa fee I paid for about a year. I now need to apply for a C1 visa for work. May I know if I can still use the visa fee I paid last year for this new application or will I need to pay again? Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Phil! Yes, you can reuse your visa fee paid for your previous B1/B2 to schedule your C1 visa appointment. B1/B2 and C1 both fall into the same visa category and therefore you can use the same visa fee. Just make sure that it hasn’t been one year yet since you paid the fee. Otherwise, the fee won’t be valid.
Ameer says
Hi, Thirumal! I want to set an appointment for B2 visa (tourism) by August 30, 2019. However, because my previous DS-160 application was done by someone (travel agency) two years ago, I don’t know what step I’ll take next. I can either start a new application or retrieve an application. By the way, my previous application was denied. If I choose a new application, it may only lead to confusion (information). On the other hand, if I choose to retrieve an application, I forgot the answer to my security question. From your knowledge, shall I start a new application or just retrieve my previous application two years ago? Thank you.
Thirumal says
Hi Ameer! If you haven’t saved a copy of your previous DS-160 form, you have no way to retrieve it now. Even if you knew the answers to the security questions, you can only retrieve the confirmation, which is of no use now. I suggest starting a new DS-160. Do not use any agencies this time. Fill the form yourself.
DS-160 is the most important step in your US visa application. Do not rush. Take a few days to fill, review and fix any inaccuracies.
AJAY SUD says
Hi Thirumal! Thanks for your guidance during filling of DS-160 form. Please advise:
a. The date/month of the start/end of academic qualification is not known. Can I fillup year only.
b. The date/month of my spouse’s parent is not known. Can I fillup the year only
Thirumal says
Hi Ajay!
a. No. Date and month are also required. You can use an approximate date and month for your academic qualifications.
b. No. Date and month are also required. You can use an approximate date and month for your spouse’s parent’s details.
AJAY SUD says
Hi Thirumal. Refer your reply dated 05 Aug 19 to my query. Filling random date/month for above points not be considered as providing false information in the DS-160? Please advise.
Thirumal says
Yes. It can be considered as false information. But you don’t have a choice. Those date/month fields are mandatory/required and you cannot leave them blank. So, try to enter the dates that are as close to the actual dates as possible.
AJAY SUD says
Hi Thirumal! During the visa consular interview, black & white copies of DS-160 confirmation page and Visa Appointment letter is acceptable or colored copies have to be submitted?
Thirumal says
Yes. Black and white copies are acceptable. No need for colored copies.
Eddy says
I am trying to use add another in previous jobs. I had more than 2 in the past 5 years, yet the button does not allow me to add another. What should I do?
Thanks, eddy
Thirumal says
Hi Eddy! The DS-160 form allows you to add a maximum of two previous jobs. Enter only the latest two previous jobs you had. That would be sufficient.
Asare says
Thank you for the quick reply Sir. But please Monday is a holiday here in Ghana and so I can make payment for the visa fee on Tuesday 6th August 2019 and be able to schedule the appointment. I heard completed DS-160 is valid for a month and so please will it still be okay to continue with the scheduling of the appointment with the DS160 I completed last month 6th July 2019. Thank you.
Thirumal says
Hi Asare! A DS-160 form valid only for 30 days is not correct. A submitted DS-160 form is considered valid as long as the information in it is still up to date. You can use your already completed DS-160 (06 Jul 2019) for scheduling your visa interview.
Asare says
Hello! Please, I completed my DS-160 form on 6th July 2019 and I am about to schedule the appointment. Do I have to fill new DS-160 or I can continue with the scheduling of the interview. Thank you.
Thirumal says
Hi Asare! You don’t need to fill a new DS-160. You can use the one that you already completed on the 6th of July to schedule your visa appointment.
vaibhav says
Hi Thirumal! Thanks for writing this amazing blog. I wanted to check one thing, on my passport I do not have a surname I have just given name. What should I use while submitting as given name and surname field is mandatory?
Thirumal says
Hi Vaibhav! If your surname in the passport is “blank”, use the following format for your DS-160.
In your Current Passport
Surname:
Given Name: XXXX YYYY
This is how you will fill in your DS-160
Surname: XXXX YYYY
Given Name: FNU
Your US visa will be issued with the following name
Surname: XXXX YYYY
Given Name: FNU
NOTE: FNU means First Name Unknown.
IMPORTANT: You must get your passport fixed as soon as you can. It can create all kinds of issues, not only for visa applications but also at the airports. If you move to a foreign country to study or work, you won’t be able to open a bank account, apply for a driving license, etc.
Eliza says
Hi Thirumal, what should I fill in the US contact information? My first stop is Hawaii (and have booked a hotel) before get into NYC and DC. Meanwhile, in my previous application, I have filled my friend’s name. And we are going on this trip together.
Thanks for the advice 🙂
Thirumal says
Hi Eliza! You can use your hotel in Hawaii as your US contact. Enter the hotel name, address and phone number. Make sure you have a refundable booking in that hotel, so the staff can confirm if the US consulate contacts them.
Eliza says
I just want to double confirm again as I don’t want them to think I am tricking. So I filled my US friend’s contact in my last refused application and will it okay if I fill in hotel in Hawaii this time? It is purely change of destination and I still have US contact. It makes me confused.
Thirumal says
You did not provide complete information in your previous question such as your previous application was “refused”. I responded based on the information you have provided. Also, you have mentioned that your friend is traveling with you this time. That means, your friend doesn’t live in the US anymore. Therefore, your only option is to provide your hotel details as your US contact.
AJAY SUD says
Hi Thirumal,
a. I had visited Europe in May 2014 using Schengen visa and visited 4 countries. Have I to indicate the names of all the 4 countries visited in the last 5 years?
b. For travel to the USA in May 2020, when should I submit the DS-160 form?
c. For the interview with the Consular, what are the essential documents to be carried for the issue of USA visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Ajay!
a. Yes, you have to mention all 4 countries in the countries visited list.
b. You can apply as early as you can. There are no time limitations for the US visa. I suggest starting your US visa process in Sep/Oct this year.
c. You have to carry the following mandatory and optional documentation
Mandatory
– Current orginal passport
– Old original passports (if any)
– Visa appointment confirmation
– DS-160 confirmation
Optional
– Employment proofs
– Financial proofs
Sushma says
Hi Thirumal, I have a question regarding B1/B2 visa. My husband is traveling to the US on work and is applying for a B1 visa. He had L1 before which got expired and his company is applying for B1 visa now.
I would like to accompany my husband with our 2-year-old son. Can all 3 apply for the visa together and go for an appointment at the same time?
Or do we have to schedule a different appointment? Will they allow kids inside the consulate?
I read in the site saying kids below 14 are not required to visit the center. So kind of confused if we can take appointment together and take even son inside. Appreciate your input. Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Sushma! Yes, all 3 of you can attend your visa interview together. Fill a separate DS-160 for each of you and then following the below steps to schedule a family interview –
– Create only one profile/account for your husband (primary applicant) in US Travel Docs. Add your family members (you and your son) as “dependents”
– On the payment page, you will be given a single receipt number and the total visa fee amount (for the entire family) to be paid
– You must make the total visa fee payment for that receipt number
– When the receipt number becomes active, you will be able to schedule a single appointment for the entire family
– On the day of the appointment, all 3 of you have to arrive at the consulate on the scheduled time and you all will be interviewed together
Depending on the country, kids below a certain age qualify for “interview waiver”. Such applicants are required to use the dropbox facility to submit the passport and documents. I suggest first following the above steps. The system will determine and tell you if your son qualifies for “interview waiver”. If he is not qualified, he must attend the visa interview along with you and your husband. The interview confirmation will have all 3 names on it.
The consulate allows all applicants including kids that need to attend the interview and have an appointment confirmation.
Judy Villafuerte says
Good day! I just want to inquire. I want to apply for a B1/B2 visa. For the payment, will I be paying my husband and son separately? I started filling up the DS-160 form, but I failed to enter the address of my relative. How can I retrieve my previous form?
Thirumal says
Hi Judy! If you, your husband and son plan to attend the visa interview together, you can schedule a single appointment for all 3 of you. You can also make a single payment of the visa fee for all 3 of you.
If you haven’t submitted your DS-160 yet, you can retrieve your partially filled DS-160 using your “Application Id”. Refer to “Retrieve an Application” in section “01. Getting Started”.
AJAY SUD says
Hi Thirumal,
a. What is National Identification Number for Indian citizens applying for B1/B2 visa?
b. During my visit to the USA in May 2020, I will be staying in 3 different cities with relatives. Can I give details of any relative in the DS-160 form for the place of stay in US and contact details in the US?
c. I am a retired person from PSU in India and worked in one company only. Do I have to give all the details of my previous employer?
d. Is digital photo of applicant to be uploaded for Indians applying for B1/B2 visa?
e. While submitting the completed DS-160 form any digital signature is required or it is only submitting by self?
f. Details of the institution from where engineering is completed have to be filled up?
Thirumal says
Hi Mr. Ajay Sud!
a. Enter your Aadhar Number for National Identification Number. If you don’t have an Aadhar Number, check “Does Not Apply”.
b. Yes. You can enter one of your relative’s information for the place of stay and US contact.
c. Yes. You must provide all the details of your previous employer (PSU).
d. I’m not sure whether it’s mandatory or not in India. Even if it is, you will be given the option to skip it. Your photo will be captured during your biometrics appointment.
e. No. In the E-Signature page, you will only be asked to enter your passport number. You DO NOT NEED to upload a scanned copy of your signature.
f. Yes. You have to enter the details for your education starting from the highest degree to the lowest. Engineering, higher secondary, etc. in that order.
hamza says
I applied for F1 visa last week but unfortunately, I was rejected.
In the interview, I told the consul that the company wanted to send me to learn the language. But the problem is that the financial sponsor is me not the company. So she asked me if the company intends to send you to learn English why do not they pay your expenses? I’m sure this question is the reason for the rejection, now I have a letter from the company and financial proof that the company will take care of the full trip expenses. Can I reapply again? Do I have chances to get a visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Hamza! US visa officers do not ask for any documentation. Therefore, even if you have a letter and financial proofs from your company, you may not be asked to show/present them. You will be left to explain your case only through DS-160 and interview.
Visa officer’s notes from your previous application/interview will be in the system permanently. If you change your answers, it can lead to further questioning (to explain), administrative processing (to verify the facts) or refusal. As you can see, your chances of admin processing or refusal are high.
Eric says
Very thorough write-up, much appreciated. My fiance is filling out the DS-160 as part of my petition to bring her here on a K1 fiance visa. We had a few questions and hoped you might be able to clarify:
1) The DS-160 specifically says to fill it out in English. I know this would apply to things like her job duties. Would it also apply to names of employers, addresses, etc? For example, on her initial K1 fiance application (I-129F) that was submitted and approved information like her address was filled out in Portuguese in order to match her passport and records.
For things like her college and graduate school, would we list it as “Universidade de Sao Paulo” or “University of Sao Paulo”? One is in English but obviously wouldn’t match records if they do a search or compare it to her initial fiance visa application which listed it as “Universidade de Sao Paulo”. Same issue with address. If her real address as listed on documentation was, “Avenida Paulista, 123” when converted to English it would be “123 Paulista Avenue” Any advice? We want to convert to English but are concerned it wouldn’t match information on other documentation she has to bring to her interview.
2) She has two current jobs. Both were listed on her fiance US Immigration fiance application, so we don’t want discrepancies. However, the DS-160 only allows for one current employer. Our thought was to enter her 2nd job under the “Previous Employment” section and make a note in “Job Duties” that she’s still currently employed.
Our thought is we’d rather provide too much information and explain it, then appear as if the information on her DS-160 doesn’t match with her I-129F Fiance Application we already filed in order to get to this point. We want to show a good faith effort. What would you recommend?
Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Eric!
1) In your case, English DOES NOT apply to names and addresses. It applies to only job duties, etc. For Spanish and Portuguese, just enter names and addresses as is, example “Avenida Paulista, 123”.
NOTE: English applies to names and addresses as well for non-Latin languages such as Thai. If an address is in Thai, it needs to be typed in English. It’s not an English translation, but the pronunciation written in English.
2) Form DS-160 doesn’t support two current jobs. So, enter the primary main job as her current employer and the 2nd one as her previous employer with a note in the job duties.
Make sure her information in DS-160 matches with her I-129F. Any mismatch can lead to questions and refusals.
Sheryn says
My father’s USA visa has expired and he still lives in the states which I only found out yesterday. On page 13, is your father in the US? What should I fill? I’m concerned it will affect my leisure visa application approval as I’m planning for a two week holiday. Please advise. I have previously granted for a 10 years tourist visa in 2003. Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Sheryn! You should say “Yes” to that question and fill your father’s details. Saying “No” will be considered as a lie and it can lead to much bigger issues, visa refusal or permanent ban. Your father overstaying his visa is not in your control and therefore, it will not affect your visa result. But lying about it can definitely affect your visa result.
Kolav chaudhary says
Hi Sir! Really liked your support in addressing the concerns. Thank you!
If you can help me on below queries; I am an Indian passport holder traveling 1st time to the US for 15 days to participate in business/customer meetings for my organization around 10th Sept 2019.
1. Full name in native alphabet – I mentioned it as Do not apply (not on my passport).
2. Other names – I have mentioned yes (since I am using short names on social media and my friends do call me with a short name, but I do not have any documented proof for this short name)
3. National identification number – I mention it as Do not apply.
4. Type of Visa – I have selected as B1.
5. Passport book number – I mention it as Do not apply.
6. Relationship with local contact – should I mention business associate or others (Since the person is my US local colleague /co-worker)?
7. I am not able to find the exact starting and completion date for my 4 yr engineering graduation, can I mention approx. dates?
Please guide.
Thirumal says
Hi Kolav!
1. Correct. Check “Do not apply”.
2. No need for any documentation proof
3. Enter your “Aadhar Number” if you have.
4. Correct. B1.
5. Correct. Check “Do not apply”.
6. Mention “other”.
7. Yes. Approximate dates are fine.
Nerooll says
Hello, I have been issued a US visa before but lost the passport and don’t remember the date. Secondly, I have been refused a US visa too and I don’t remember the dates. What should I do?
Thirumal says
Hi Nerooll! Try your best to figure those dates. Look in your emails, documents, computer files, phone messages, etc. Ask your parents, siblings, friends, if they have any records of it. If not, use approximate dates.
Keep in mind that any inaccuracies in your information will lead to questions, admin processing or refusal. Therefore, only after exhausting all of the above options, use approximate dates.
Sai says
Hello, I have a question regarding the entry: “Has anyone ever filed an immigrant petition on your behalf with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services”. My employer is currently in the process of applying for my I-140 following my PERM approval a couple of months ago. Could you kindly advise how I should answer this question in DS-160?
Thirumal says
Hi Sai! PERM is only the labor certification and I-140 is the actual immigrant petition. If your I-140 hasn’t been filed yet, you should answer “No” to that question.
Person seeking help says
Dear Thirumal, I filled in my DS-160 and a Visa Agency helped me (F-Visa).
Now I want to submit my DS-160 form, but there are two questions left and the agency isn’t available at the moment:
1. Monthly Income:
I’ve got different monthly income from the last months and now (for July). The last months were steady, but for July I had a raise and a payment in lieu of vacation (I canceled my job to the 31st July). Should I state my old monthly income (salary, fare and another steady benefit), or should I take my last wage slip (including my new salary [incl. raise], fare, lieu of vacation and the steady benefit). The last wage slip is “so to say unique” and only for July because I canceled my job (I got a new job and will earn another salary amount in August). Which one is the “safer” version? I could take my last 3 or 4 wage slips to the consulate if they need evidence.
2. Social Media
I have filled in the last years regarding social media appearance/e-mail/telephone numbers. But in the DS-160 form, you can only fill in the current telephone number and the current e-mail-address. Regarding the social media appearance, I would take all my current social media appearances and one, which I deleted last month, but there is no extra field for “the old ones”, is that right? Or should I neglect the deleted one because there is no “extra field” activated in the form?
Best regards!
Thirumal says
Hi Person Seeking Help!
1. I suggest using your latest salary slip (July). Enter your salary from that salary slip in your DS-160. Carry 3-4 salary slips to your interview.
2. This feature is new and I haven’t used it myself. So, I am not aware of the screen and the available options. But I suggest entering only the current social media handles and skipping the ones you already deleted.
ExplorerMe says
Hi Sir,
I am applying for a B1/B2 visa with my two best friends and has submitted our DS-160. When I clicked YES in Travel Companion, the next box is requesting me to provide the group name. Are we considered a part of an organized tour? We will book & arrange our itinerary on our own together. I have selected No, is it correct? Is it safe to say that I will be travelling with my friends if we get our visa approved incase the consul will ask my travel companion even though I have selected No?
Secondly, we have provided a hotel name & address in the US address but we have not booked that hotel yet, is it safe?
Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi ExplorerMe! No. Your’s will not be considered as a group tour. You should answer “No” to that question.
Sure, you can say that you will be traveling with your friends. For the visa, what matters is your ability to prove that you have strong ties with your country and you will return back after the trip. Your friends would also need to do the same on their own. You guys traveling together will not affect any of your visa results.
I suggest booking the hotel if they offer a “refundable” option. In case the consulate contacts the hotel, the staff will be able to confirm your booking.
Ram says
Hi, I am trying to fill DS 160 form for non-immigrant (H1B). After entering the personal information it is directly taking me to Section 4 by skipping section 2 and 3 (Address and Phone and Passport). Was there any recent changes to DS-160?
Thirumal says
Hi Ram! Yes, there have been some changes in the last couple of months. The inclusion of social media handles caused rearrangement of some of the sections. These recent changes are not consistent yet, so I am waiting to update the guide.
Rais ur Rahman says
Hi sir, I am filing online DS-160 application for B2 visa. I need your support for the following two questions.
– I have expired Canadian PR card and I am presently in my native country. What should I answer for the question “Do you have residency of any other country” in DS-160. Yes or No. My card was expired in 2009.
– I have been refused US visa in 2004 due to the reason that my previous paasport was misplaced but now I found it few years back. What should I answer for the question “Do you ever lost your passport.”
Thanks in advance for your support.
Thirumal says
Hi Rais!
– You should answer “No”. The question is whether you have a permanent residency “currently”. Since you are not a permanent resident of Canada “currently”, the answer to that question would be “No”.
– The answer should be “Yes”. You can explain that you found your passport later.
jayashree M says
Hi, asking on behalf of a friend:
1. What documents are required with the application?
2. For an applicant who has a DUI record but received pardon, any additional docs required or any issue in securing visa
Thanks and appreciated
Thirumal says
Hi Jayashree!
1. No documents are required. US VOs will not ask for any documents during the visa interview.
2. Again, no documents are required. You will not be asked to show any documents during your visa interview. You just have to say “Yes” to the question “Have you ever been arrested or convicted for any offense or crime…” and explain. That’s all.
Khaleel says
Hi Sir, Thanks for the details you provided. I filled the forms for my self and my wife. Unfortunately, I did a mistake on my wife’s application entered her mother surname as her grandmother name! Will it be a problem and the application submitted and got confirmation?
Also, VAC appointment selected July 31 and Consulate appointment selected Sep 4 which is the recent available date on showed in the system. Is there possible I can get consulate appointment next day of VAC appointment? Please advise.
Thanks in advance.
Thirumal says
Hi Khaleel! In my opinion, an error in mother’s surname is not a huge issue. But if you like to fix it, you can update or fill a new DS-160. Take a print of the new DS-160 confirmation. Carry both old and new DS-160 confirmations with you to the interview.
Keep an eye on the current wait times. If you notice a drop in the wait times, then reschedule your appointment. You may be able to get an earlier appointment. But keep in mind that when you reschedule your appointment, you reschedule both VAC and consulate appointments.
Liam says
Hi Thirumal! Appreciate your advice for the following query:
1) I am a Filipino national and currently residing in Dubai, UAE. Am I a permanent resident in UAE or no?
2) Do I have to put on the NATIONAL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER, our emirates ID Number?
3) I am traveling with my wife and there is an option in the form if I will be traveling as part of a group or organization. Do I have to say no since I am only traveling with my wife?
4) Grandmother has filed an immigration petition for my family in 2007 (Father, Mother, & two brothers were approved but my application got denied as my status was changed from single to married.) Do I have to explain this in DS-160 form and do they require any documentation about this petition papers? I was trying to get these documents from my parents but to no avail.
5) I and my wife are traveling to visit my family in the US, however, I am unsure the possibility of having a visa. Our two kids are currently enrolled in the UAE.
Appreciate your help based on my queries aforementioned.
Thirumal says
Hi Liam!
1) If you have “indefinite” leave to enter the UAE then you are a permanent resident. If your residence in the UAE is similar to “greencard” in the US, then you are a permanent resident. Otherwise, you are not.
2) If you are a permanent resident in UAE, then it’s your Emirates ID. Otherwise, it’s your national Id from the Philippines.
3) You will select “No” since you are traveling with family and NOT as group travel.
4) You have to enter your petition type, petition number, date filed and status. You DO NOT need any documentation or petition papers.
5) I think you have a fair chance of securing the visa. Make sure to take your time to fill your DS-160 accurately. It’s the most important document.
Arun says
Hi Thirumal,
I have got my J1 VISA. It expires on the 30th of September. Can you please tell me if it is possible for me to stay till October 15th post my VISA expiration? If so will it be an issue when I apply for a VISA in future? Thanks in advance.
Regards.
Arun
Thirumal says
Hi Arun! Your visa expiry doesn’t really matter. What matters is the exit date marked on the entry stamp in your passport.
At the first port of entry in the US, CBP officials mark the exit date on your passport by which you have to leave the US. If that is 30th September, then you have to leave the US on or before the 30th of September. If you leave later, it’s considered “overstay”. Overstay has serious consequences including future visa refusals, temporary/permanent ban from entering the US, etc.
Gerlee says
Hi! I missed out to put my middle name in my DS-160 and already submitted and got my confirmation. What will I do?
Thirumal says
Hi Gerlee! No need to worry! Fill a new DS-160 with correct middle name. Use this new DS-160 confirmation to schedule your visa appointment.
Kevin says
Hi Thirumal.
Thanks for providing this useful information about the DS-160.
I have a question about the previous education section. I did my bachelor degree in my home country ( the Netherlands). During the last year of my degree, I went to Australia for a 10 month internship at an institute that was part of a university. I was a visitor and not registered as an Australian student. I needed a visa for the internship.
My question is: Do I need to provide this information on the DS-160 form? Currently, I provided the information that I have done my bachelors degree in the Netherlands.
Thanks for the help!
Thirumal says
Hi Kevin! Though you were in Australia for a bit, you graduated in the Netherlands. Therefore, you have done your bachelors degree in the Netherlands. What you have entered in your DS-160 is correct.
And by the way, don’t forget to enter Australia as a country for the question “Have you traveled to any countries/regions within the last five years?”.
Al says
Hi Thirumal!
I’m going to travel for the holidays with my girlfriend to the US. She is a US citizen.
In the question “Are there other persons traveling with you?” shall I mention her as a travel companion or not? I’m a little bit confused in this section of the DS-160 form. She is no family to me nor are we part of a group. So, what shall I do?
Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Al! Your purpose of travel is to take a vacation to the US with your girlfriend. That means you both will be going and coming back together. In that case, she is your travel companion. Therefore, you should enter her as your travel companion in your DS-160.
Bijay Gaire says
Hi Sir! Greetings from me!
With your advice and suggestions, my mother had been issued a B1/B2 visa. Thanks a lot for helping me through your blog!
Today I’m in questions about that
As my mother got B1/B2 visa which has 5 years of validity from xx/xx/2019 to xx/xx/2024, But while filing out DS-160 form on option 5 of Travel on intended length of stay in the U.S., I’ve mentioned 6 months, but the Embassy had issued the 5 years visa of entries M type which means multiple entries.
1. Are all B1/B2 visa issued is of 5 years validity or less than 5 years or something else?
2. Another I want to know that my mother’s visa is of M type what is the meaning regarding M type Visa?
3. Prior to M type visa that is 5 years validity B1/B2 visa holders had to return compulsory after six months stay for the first visit or should leave or return from the U.S. for one or two days to overcome 6 months stay. (Or)
Should anyone with the above categories visa can stay 1 to 3 years or till the visa validity date without returning after 6 months stay on the first visit? What is the reason behind that please specify me details about these questions which are useful for all above type visa holders.
Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Bijay! Congratulations to your mother! I’m glad that this blog has been helpful.
1. B1/B2 visas are issued from 1 year to 10 years depending on the passport. For example, Indian passport holders are usually issued B1/B2 visas valid for 10 years. You can check the validity of different US visas for your passport here.
2. “M” means “multiple entries”. A visa holder with multiple entries can enter the US as many times as needed until the expiration of the visa.
3. A B1/B2 visa holder is allowed to stay in the US up to 6 months each entry. It’s not just the first entry, but every entry cannot be more than 6 months.
The visa holder can leave the US for a few days and re-enter to gain another 6 months entry. But, if the CBP officers at the port of entry suspect that visa holder is abusing the visa, they may cancel the visa, deport and ban for a few years.
Therefore, it’s extremely dangerous to abuse the visa. I suggest having your mother stay with you for 6 months and return home. Give about 6 months gap before she returns to the US for another 6 months.
Reason for 6-month ONLY entry: A B1/B2 visa is for either “business” or “tourism”. A business person or tourist only need a limited amount of time to conduct business or sightsee. If someone with “B1/B2” visa is staying longer in the US, they are basically “living” in the US. To live in the US, a different type of visa is required (such as greencard). Therefore, living in the US on a B1/B2 visa is considered as “visa abuse” which has serious consequences.
Harish says
Hi Thirumal, “Have you ever been refused a U.S. Visa, or been refused admission to the United States, or withdrawn your application for admission at the port of entry?”
1. I have an amendment denial in my past from Employer 1, immediately I switched to Employer 2 and filed H1 Transfer.
What should I fill in this case for the above-quoted question?
Thirumal says
Hi Harish! Your answer to that question should be “No”.
That amendment/transfer are for H1B work permit. Not to your visa. The above question is specific to the visa. You will only answer “Yes” to the above question if you were denied a US visa at a US consulate or your US visa was withdrawn/canceled/revoked at the airport (port of entry) in the US and you were sent back to your home country.
akj says
Hello Sir, I have a query.
My wife had H4 but she never travelled on it. Then she had H1B and she worked for 2yrs in the US but then her petition got denied. Now I am applying H4 for her again.
What will be the answer to below queries:
1. Has your U.S. Visa ever been cancelled or revoked?
2. Have you ever been refused a U.S. Visa, or been refused admission to the United States, or withdrawn your application for admission at the port of entry?
Thirumal says
Hi Akj! If your wife is currently in the US, she can apply for “change of status” from H1 to H4. Talk to your immigration lawyer on the procedure.
1. Your answer should be “No”. Her H1B “work permit” was denied and not her visa. This question is specific to US visa – the visa sticker in the passport.
2. Your answer should be “No”. Same as above, this question is also specific to US visa.
Sugar says
Hi Thirumal,
Please, I have a couple of questions to ask.
I was denied visa over a year ago and you want to reapply, I opened another account and the system identified that the data I uploaded tallies with an existing profile (brought out my existing email address) and requested to merge the profiles together. My questions are this:
1. At the point of logging in to my existing data, my details already populated and the previous DS-160 confirmation number is already populated. Am I supposed to use the existing confirmation number?
2. I continued with the details but it didn’t take me to where to edit travel information, US contact Information, work information, family information, etc. It just took me to where to pay. Is that okay? Somethings have changed which needed to be updated here. What can I do?
3. I presently wish to go to another state and stay in a hotel because I want to use this to trip to celebrate myself and mark my birthday. It’s strictly for pleasure! Is it possible for me to do this and will the consular not be wondering why?
Or is it advisable I still maintain where I stated previously then relocate to the hotel after getting there?
Thanks as I await your feedback
Thirumal says
Hi Sugar!
1. No. You must update the “DS-160 confirmation number” with your NEW DS-160 confirmation. If you haven’t filled a new DS-160, do so prior to scheduling your visa appointment.
2. You won’t be able to edit those details while scheduling your appointment. Only appointment scheduling can be done on that website while DS-160 is a different website. Follow this guide to complete your DS-160.
3. Your itinerary can change after your visa is approved. The CBP officials at the first port of entry in the US will ask your purpose and itinerary. If they are satisfied with your purpose and itinerary, then you are fine. It can be different from what you have entered in the visa application.
Sugar says
Thanks for your response. How do I fill a new DS-160 form? The system kept bringing my old record. How do I go about this please?
Thirumal says
First, follow this current article to fill a new DS-160. Once you submit it, it will generate a confirmation page for you. Print the confirmation.
Second, follow this another article to schedule your visa appointment.
urmila says
Hello,
For tourist visa,
A) For specific travel plans is it fine to say No or will that impact visa decision? For yes, there are (if known) options, doesn’t that mean they are tentative too? Also, for locations, are they looking for specific locations such as museums and parks or general ones like city names?
B) Is Aadhar number mandatory for national identification number? We have aadhar cards but are they recognized?
C) Will I need an invite letter from my relative? I may or may not stay with them but I have given their contact since I haven’t made any hotel bookings as yet.
Thanks in advance!
Thirumal says
Hi Urmila!
A) It’s fine to say NO. If you say YES, you would need to enter specific travel information. My suggestion is to select “No” to that question and enter your intended travel date, duration and address. If you have selected “YES”, then you can just enter the city names. (Selecting YES or NO will not impact your visa decision).
B) It is NOT mandatory and I’m not sure if it’s even recognized. But the goal here is to NOT check too many “DOES NOT KNOW”s. Check “DOES NOT KNOW” only if it’s absolutely necessary. If you have an Aadhar number, then enter the number.
C) No. Invitation letters are not needed. Even if you have one, the VO will not ask for it.
ma. adoracion jocson says
Hi Thirumal, good day! Hope you can comment on my concern. There is a question in DS-160 form that says if you have a traveling companion, my cousin is planning to go with me this sept 2019 if my visa will get approved. Do I need to put her on my DS-160 as my traveling companion? Anyway, she got her 10 yrs multiple entry visa 3 yrs ago and been traveling to the US every year for vacation. What if my visa will get approve and she will change her mind not to travel with me. Will it affect my records someday?
Another concern, about previous employment record, do I need to put my employmet information that was last 2004? I’d been a plain housewife for 10 yrs, not until 2015 I owned a travel agency business til now and its doing well. Thank you so much.
from,
Nadine Jocson
Thirumal says
Hi Nadine! I suggest not putting your cousin’s name in your DS-160. If you are a family and planning to travel together, then putting them as travel companions would make sense.
Yes, enter your previous employment information from 2004 as well. I know it’s way back, but if the application allows you to enter employment from 2004, make sure to enter it.
Hannah says
Hi, my intended date of arrival is 1 September but when I submitted my application the earliest appointment I got is 21st October so I selected 22nd for my interview. I didn’t fall under the category that can request for expedited appointment because I am going to Disney world. Please, will it affect the chances of me getting the US visa? Thank you.
Thirumal says
Hi Hannah! No. It won’t. But I suggest updating your DS-160 with new travel dates somewhere in November (or later). Print confirmation of this new DS-160 and carry it with you to the interview.
KALA NIDHI says
Thank so much sir, for your reply dated June 23, 2019, at 10:16 pm. In addition to that, my query,
A. Sir My father has decided to not to return to the USA due to his appointment in a Government department.
There then I can put “NO” to answer the question “Is Your Father in the US?.
B. I have decided to show my Term deposits in my financial documents.along with my CA appraisal. Will it be sufficient? I am not showing funds in the savings account. Will it be acceptable? or do I have show funds in the savings account?
Kindly help.Thank you in advance.
Regards.
Thirumal says
Hi Kala Nidhi!
A. In that case, enter “NO”.
B. I don’t know what financial documents are needed for an F1 visa. My knowledge and experience are only in tourist (B1/B2) visas.
Eliza says
Hi Thirumal, few questions to ask.
1. What should I fill in to address where I stay when visiting US if I will be travel to a few places? (Boston, Washington and NYC)
2. For the contact person, I previously entered a name of a friend cause I will be staying in his place but now due to change of itinerary, I will be staying in a hotel and move around plus the chances of meeting him is tentative. So should I still enter his name or tick I don’t know?
Thirumal says
Hi Eliza!
1. Fill the hotel address in the first city that you will be going to. If you will be going to Boston first, enter the hotel address from there.
2. You can enter your first hotel as your point of contact in the US.
Daniel Vale says
Hi! Great post! I accidentally clicked Yes on one of the options about security and background. But immediately I changed to “no”.
Is there any risk of this influencing my visa? Other than this situation, which I corrected immediately, the rest of the document is right
Thirumal says
Hi Daniel! No. It will not be tracked and it will not affect your visa result. No need to worry.
priya says
Hello Mr.Thirumal,
I was filling the DS-160 application form for my husband and had few doubts in personal information part 2 and travel information part. Actually, my husband is working at Muscat, Oman but he has Indian Nationality. So he is going to apply for the US visa at the US embassy in Oman.
The doubt is that he has a resident card over there which is valid for 2 years, but he is not a permanent resident of the country. So what should I fill up in the question: Are you a permanent resident of a country/region other than your country/region of origin (nationality) above?
And also do I need to mention Oman resident card number in the place NATIONAL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER column or leave it blank because of Indian nationality.
In the travel information part, we have not yet planned about the trip except for the month of travel. So after mentioning No in the column have you made specific travel plans? Do I still need to give some details of the intended date of arrival, stay in the US, address where you will stay in the US or can I just type not yet decided?
Thirumal says
Hi Priya! The answer would be “No” for the question “are you a permanent resident…”. The national identification number would be the national Id from India (ex: Aadhar number).
You still have to provide the intended date of arrival, length of stay, etc. You have to have some kind of idea when you want to go, where you want to go, what you want to do, etc. These details are important for your DS-160 and also for your visa interview.
Arushi Garg says
Thank you for your response. I have written to the embassy, waiting for their reply. If I can check the ‘do not know’ box, that would be the best solution to this worry of mine.
I also wanted to ask, I work as a freelancer sometimes, currently, I’m unemployed, so my primary occupation would be ‘unemployed’, right?
Also, do I need to book my hostel/apartment where I would plan to stay to fill in the address in the form? Would they ask for proof of accommodation during the interview?
Thirumal says
Hi Arushi! In my opinion, checking “do not know” will not have any consequences since you will be mentioning your previous travel dates anyway.
If you have no current income at all, then go for “unemployed”. If not, select “OTHER” and explain your freelance activities in the “Explain” box.
You will not be asked to show proof of accommodation at the time of interview. But I suggest booking a “refundable” hostel/apartment so you can provide its address in your DS-160. If for some reason, the consulate contacts the hostel/apartment, the staff can respond with the appropriate booking details.
Akber says
Hey, I have the following questions. I will be happy to have your suggestions. I didn’t find answers to my question that’s the reason I am writing for your advice.
1) My petition of the Green card is already filed in 2014 and since then I have never been awarded the US visa. I have tried from London and Pakistan too, but it’s not working out. Now we have a wedding in the US and I want to apply for Visit visa. Can you give me multiple ideas or suggestions?
2) Secondly, I have recently been denied by Canada. If I say “No” that I don’t have denials from any other country, is that fine? I have checked with a few of my colleague and they suggested me that data other than the USA is not traced. Is that true? Please guide.
I believe and trust in your cooperation.
Thirumal says
Hi Akber!
1) If you have a green card application pending, then it’s highly unlikely that you will be issued a B1/B2 visa. A green card application indicates that you have “immigration intent”. Whereas, B1/B2 has a “non-immigrant intent”. Therefore, your B1/B2 application conflicts with your actual intent. You have two options –
a) You have to withdraw your green card application. You will be likely issued a B1/B2 in that case.
b) Talk to an experienced immigration lawyer. They are trained and experienced such matters.
2) There is no documented evidence that countries share visa information. But I have seen many ex-VOs of US consulates mention that they all refer to various databases that are sourced from governments and third-parties. Also, I have seen numerous UK visa refusal letters stating that the applicants failed to mention their US/Canada visa refusals. The UK somehow seems to have access to other country visa refusals. So I believe the US, Canada, Australia, etc may also have access to this information.
RP says
Hello,
1. In DS160, there is a question which says “Do you have any immediate relatives, not including parents in the U.S.?”.
I am currently in the USA with my wife(H4) and child (H4) and filled the DS160 from the US. Hence, I selected “YES” and submitted the form as well. However, we all will come to India for visa interview together and at the time of the interview, none of us will be in the USA. So, what should be my answer here to that question? Can you please let me know if I need to change my answer to “NO” and submit a new DS160?
2. There is a similar question on my daughter’s DS160 under the “Family Information” section, which says “Is your father in the U.S.?” and “Is your mother in the U.S.?”
I have selected “YES” for those questions because I and my wife are currently in the USA. Do you think, I need to change the answer to “NO” because during the interview we all will be in India?
3. In DS160, on the “Previous U.S. Travel Information” page we need to answer “Have you ever been in the U.S.?” and my answer to that question is “Yes”. The next question there is “Date Arrived:” and I have the date for that too. The next question on that page (form) is “Length of Stay”. Since I am still in the US (filling my DS-160 from the US) and did not leave yet, what should be my answer there? As of today, I have completed 30 months; however, I will be going to India after two months for my visa interview. So, I will physically leave the US after two months (dates are not final yet). So, what should be the ‘Length of Stay’ for my last visit? Should it be 30 months or it should be 32 months (since my plan is to leave the US after 2 months)?
Thirumal says
Hi RP! My knowledge and experience are only in “tourist” visas. I have applied for myself and helped many. I can provide knowledgeable and concrete answers for B1/B2 questions.
That being said, I have also lived and worked in the US on H1B. I have been to several consulates in several countries for my H1B extensions. I will try to answer your questions solely based on how I filled my visa forms for my own H1B extensions back then.
1. I always assumed that I was still in the US even when attending the US visa interviews abroad. The reason for that was I was still employed, had a home in the US, had my car parked in the garage, paying my bills, receiving mail, etc. I was only temporarily outside the US for the visa interview. Therefore, in your case, I suggest selecting “Yes” and entering your wife and daughter’s details.
2. Leave it as “Yes”.
3. It will be 32 months.
Alex says
Is there any chance my sponsor got denied his visa if I do not get a visa? I meant to revoked my sponsor’s visa in case mine is not approved.
Thirumal says
Hi Alex! No. Once the visa is issued, it won’t be revoked due to someone’s else’s visa refusal. A visa may be revoked if the US department of state discovers visa fraud.
hamza says
Thank you so much! I am planning to apply for a USA study visa. I have 2 financial sponsors –
1 – My brother
2 – Present employer
In the I-20 form, I put my brother is my sponsor. Is ok to put my present employer as my financial sponsor in my DS-160 form or financial sponsors must be the same in I-20 and DS-160 form? Sorry for my English.
Thirumal says
Hi Hamza! It must be the same. Your brother on I-20 and DS-160. Otherwise, it will cause confusion to the VO which would lead to unnecessary complications.
Evelyn says
On the B1/B2 visa application: how should I answer the question about my education if I’m currently enrolled and attending a university? The system will not allow me to select a future date.
Thirumal says
Hi Evelyn! If you are a student, then you must select “STUDENT” for “Primary Occupation”. Then you must enter your current university details there. Any previous education details will go in the section for the question “Have you attended any educational institutions at a secondary level or above?”.
Evelyn says
Will it hurt my application if I noted my past and current employment information first then my current education at a secondary level?
Thirumal says
If you are currently employed and also enrolled in the university, then it’s tricky. The application is not designed to handle this scenario.
You have to give priority to your employment and enter your current employment for “Primary Occupation”. And enter your current education/enrollment for the question “Have you attended any educational institutions at a secondary level or above?” with a “Date of Attendance To” as today’s date. If asked during your interview, explain that you are currently working and also studying.
Arushi Garg says
Hi, I’m going to be applying for an F1 visa. As per your screenshots, they ask for your previous U.S visits and they ask for ‘visa number’ (the red digit code). I have a US tourist visa which is valid for the next two years, but it has been damaged, it’s washed out. So the red digit code is not visible. And I don’t have a photo or scan of the visa from when it was okay. So now, I would have to apply for renewal. Then get that visa, and then apply for F1, (which I’m afraid might cause suspicion) or I just try to procure my visa number based on my passport details from the embassy. What do you suggest I do? Because this will cause delays and it has complicated things for me.
Thirumal says
Hi Arushi! I suggest contacting the US embassy or consulate to see if they can provide your visa number. If not, just select the option “do not know”. If asked during the interview, explain that you couldn’t read the visa number since it’s damaged. You may also be asked on how it is damaged, so you may have to explain that as well.
Experience says
Hi Thirumal, I want to apply for a B1/B2 visa. The church will be providing accommodation for me where I will stay in the US.
In the interview, if I am asked – where will you stay in the US, should I say I will stay in the church and mention the name of the church and the address of the church OR I should only say the address of the church without mentioning the church name. Please, I need an answer to this.
Thirumal says
Hi Experience! It doesn’t really matter. I don’t see how mentioning the name of the church or not will affect your visa result.
Divyesh says
Hi Thirumal, Thanks for the prompt reply to my queries. That’s really helpful. I have another query though, I heard that by mentioning that you live with your family here in India increases your chances of getting visitor visa as US authority assumes you will return to your home country due to this. As I am living in a different location due to work, is it safe to mention that I am living with my family or should I mention that I am leaving here away from home? (Issue here is that parents are also working (Job) there in the permenant address). Do they ask questions on what your parents doing and where they work and necessary documents for the same?) Kindly suggest on this.
Thirumal says
Hi Divyesh! In my opinion, living with parents will not increase your chances of visa approval. Probably, it will, if your parents are dependent on you. But that is not the case since your parents are still working and have their jobs. Therefore, I would say, do not worry about it. Just apply from where you are currently.
The VO may ask your marital status but they may not ask about your parents, their whereabouts and their employment background. For your interview, focus on the following –
– Your purpose of travel (important)
– Your itinerary in the US (important)
– Your employment background (current job, role, duties, salary, etc)
– Your financial background (how much you make, etc)
REI says
Thank you so much, this really helped me a lot by following all the steps as listed here. Be blessed abundantly.
Thirumal says
Hi REI! Thanks! I’m glad this guide was helpful.
Divyeshkumar says
Hi Thirumal again,
I have a query around which address to provide in the address section. I am staying in Pune because of work. And my parents are staying in Gujarat which is my permanent address. All my documents have a permanent address. So is it ok to mention permanent address in DS-160?
Thanks in advance.
Thirumal says
Hi Divyeshkumar! Yes, you can mention your permanent address for both “Home” and “Mailing” address. But I suggest using your Pune address for “Mailing” address since you will be able to receive communication on that address much quickly.
Martin says
Hi Thirumal, does the home address in the J1 DS-160 application must match the one given in the ESTA application? As a student, I’m still registered at my parents home address, but I study in a different town.
Is it ok to use my parents’ place as my “home address” and my study place just as a mail address?
Thirumal says
Hi Martin! The addresses on your J1 DS-160 and ESTA can be different. It will not affect your visa result.
Yes, absolutely. You can use your parents’ place as your “home address” while your dorm/college as your “mailing address”.
Divyeshkumar says
Hi Thirumal,
I am planning to apply for a USA tourist visa. But I have an address issue problem with my passport. My passport and aadhar card has different addresses. Aadhar card has my current permanent address while passport helds the old address where we were staying before we moved to the present address. What should I do in this case? Should I apply for address change in my passport?
Thirumal says
Hi Divyeshkumar! Address changes are NOT necessary for your US visa application. You can update your address in Aadhar, etc for your personal convenience. US VOs will not ask for any documentation except your passport. They do not care what address you have in your passport.
Sunil says
Hello Thirumal ji, I am running one NGO from 15yrs which is a Voluntary Organisation. We don’t do fundraising, so our NGO’s banking is very bad. I never worked any of the time in my life in any company. I dedicated myself to Environmental service. The bank statement is good but I don’t have 3yrs IT returns.
I stayed in London for 1yr 6yrs ago. I want to attend one expo in the USA. Where should I mention all these? Please, help me out.
Thirumal says
Hi Sunil! You don’t need any documentation for your US visa. You will not be asked to show your bank statements, IT returns, etc during your interview. US VOs makes the decision based on your answers in your DS-160, interview and from various databases that they have access to.
You cannot mention something that is not asked in your DS-160. If you have to convey these things to the VO, your only option is to bring up those topics during your visa interview.
warren jucom says
Hi, My family is applying for a US nonimmigrant tourist visa and we already paid the visa fee and done with the submission of DS-160. But upon reading some comments here on your page, I realized that I made many mistakes in my DS-160. Here are some of my mistakes.
1. In the filled of “Full name in Native Alphabet” we put our names same as in PAssport. instead
2. My wife had lost her passport when she was still single but instead of checking” Yes” and she choose ” No”.
3. My wife had previously US visa denied year 2003 when she was still single. She checked “NO” instead of “YES”
Can she has to submit the new DS-160 application. or all of us have to fill up the new DS-160.
Thirumal says
Hi Warren!
1. This is not going to affect your visa result. Therefore, just leave it as is and DO NOT fill new DS-160s.
2. Your wife has to make this correction in her DS-160. She can edit the one that she already filled. This will generate new confirmation which she needs to print and carry with her to the interview.
3. Your wife has to make this correction in her DS-160 as well.
Only your wife needs to carry the print of her NEW/UPDATED DS-160 with her. Rest of you all will carry the existing DS-160 confirmations to the interview.
Ritesh Chawda says
Hi, I have completed my DS-160 with available passport size photograph which was taken recently but unfortunately, I missed my hard copies of passport size photographs.
So shall I click another passport size photographs and bring these passport size photos with me while going for US Visitor Visa interview? As in this case, upload photo and hard copy photo which I would be bringing will be different. Will it be fine or any problem? Please, confirm and guide me.
Thirumal says
Hi Ritesh! First of all, if you already uploaded a photo, you will not be asked to provide physical copies of the photos again at the interview. You may be asked to bring some to the interview, but they will usually use the one that’s already uploaded.
Second, if you have a digital copy that you uploaded, why don’t you get prints of the same digital copy? That way, you will have the same photos both digital and physical.
RITESH says
Thanks.
Yes. Same thing I have done. Taken a print of soft copy.
Thirumal says
Yes, that works! Good luck with your interview!
Revati says
Hi, Do I need to mention my other relatives in DS-160? If I don’t mention, will the visa counselor find out the truth?
Thirumal says
Hi Revati! There is no documented evidence that they will verify every information entered in the DS-160. If you have a strong case with no complications, then such minor details do not matter. If your case is weak and has complications, the VO may dig into everything.
Rahul says
Hello, I have filled up all required details for DS-160 but while reviewing it under address and phone information there is a question (: Have you used additional email addresses in the last five years?), but I don’t find the option to answer this question. How should I proceed in regards to this question?
Thirumal says
Hi Rahul! This is a new update introduced last week wherein the applicants have to now enter their social media handles, emails and phone number used in the last five years. Since this is a new update, there may be bugs with the application. If you are not shown that question in “Address and Phone” section but only visible in “Review”, then don’t worry about. Just complete your DS-160 as usual.
NOTE: Once the application becomes stable, I will update this step-by-step guide with the new updates.
KALA NIDHI says
Hello Mr.Thirumal,
Sir, I am applying for F1 visa and I already have a Visitor visa and have been to the USA four times.
My query is that my parents are permanent residents of U.S.A
A. My Father has applied for an extension in P.R. and is living in India with the extension document.
B. My Mother has been coming to India and going back to the U.S.A. Now she is going back to the U.S.A. She lives with my sister who is a U.S. Citizen.
C. My mother has applied for Immigration Visa I130 for alien relative (ME)
WHAT DO I WRITE ANSWER TO:
1. Is your father in the US?
2. Is Your Mother in the US?
3. Has anyone ever filed an immigrant petition on your behalf with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services?
4. And will the above status of my parents and my immigration petition will harm my F1 visa application?
Thank you In Advance.
Regards
Thirumal says
Hi Kala Nidhi!
1. The answer would be “Yes”. Your father has been living in the US and will be going back to the US after his extension. He might even be in the US by the time you go to the consulate for your interview.
2. The answer would be “Yes”.
3. If your mother has applied I130 for you, then the answer would be “Yes”.
4. It’s difficult to say. F1 is “non-immigrant”, whereas your parents are immigrants. You have a pending petition, so you have an immigrant intention as well. All these factors may affect your visa decision. But at the same, if you have admission in a reputed university, these factors may not matter.
Grace says
Hello! I am an F1 student and I had already applied for my visa twice (first with an interview and the second with an interview wavier) but for this third time, I had kind of reused my photo from my very first visa in my interview wavier. I did the same for my brother. The Consular had refused my brother’s documents saying that his photo is too old but had accepted all my documents and tell me to come and pick my passport and documents after 5 business days. What are my chances of getting my visa refused because of the photo? Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Grace! If they have accepted your documents, then you have a fair chance of visa approval. The photo must have been taken in the last 6 months. But if your appearance hasn’t changed much, you can still use an old photo.
Sushmitha Abboju says
I need to apply the visa for my parents. Should I fill separate DS-160 forms?
Thirumal says
Hi Sushmitha! Yes. You have to fill a separate DS-160 form for each of your parents.
Dinesh says
Hi, I would like to know about the new rule for including Social media accounts as well. I have already submitted my DS-160 form and have an interview scheduled in another 15-20 days.
What needs to be done here? Do I need to fill a new form with social media details and get a new appointment or does the rule apply only for new DS-160 forms?
If we have not filled will they ask for it at the time of interview?
Thanks in advance.
Thirumal says
Hi Dinesh! Including social media details on the application is a new regulation and I don’t have much insight into it. I’m currently researching and will update the guide accordingly. But in your case, do not fill a new one. Just go with the one you have already filled. If you are asked at the interview, just provide your social media handles.
Note: The inclusion of social media details will not affect normal travelers like us. There is no harm in providing those details. You only have to provide the social media handles. Passwords are NOT needed.
Eliza says
Hi Thirumal, I will apply for B1/B2 visa for 2nd attempt. My question is could I change the information in the DS-160 regarding contact in the US and person who travel with me? Previously I filled in I will stay at a friend’s home and this time I decided to join a tour so that I won’t be bored by the long hours flight and will stay at a hotel. And also since I join a tour, what should I answer for the question are you traveling alone? and person who travel with you?
Thanks for the advise, been so much help. Keep it up
Thirumal says
Hi Eliza! If you are traveling as part of a group tour, you must select “Yes” to the question “Are you traveling as part of a group or organization?” and then enter the group details.
raja says
Hi, I am raja. I have applied DS-160 for B1 visa in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia US embassy for an office conference. I applied DS-160 without a photo and paid money and got appointment time also, without a photo I applied what to do now?
Thirumal says
Hi Raja! Don’t worry. If you haven’t uploaded a photo in your DS-160, just carry 2 copies of your recent passport size (2 inch x 2 inch) photo to your visa appointment.
Marmik says
Hi, I am just going for two weeks trip all by myself. I don’t have any contact in the US, so what should I enter in that field. Also, my travelling dates are not yet fixed, it’s just I will travel in September month. So as I have not yet booked flight tickets, will it be an issue? And what other things I need to take care about that my visa does not get rejected, I am going there just as a tourist.
Thirumal says
Hi Marmik! You can enter your US hotel details for your “US contact”. I suggest booking a “refundable” hotel just for your visa and using their address as your “US contact”. If at all the US consulate contacts the hotel, the staff will be able to verify your information as there will be booking in their system.
No. It’s not an issue. You should NOT book your flight tickets before your US visa is issued. US consulate does not recommend purchasing your flight tickets prior to your visa approval.
A few suggestions
– I suggest taking a few days to fill your DS-160. Don’t hurry. Go through your completed DS-160 several times to spot any error, inaccuracies, missing information, etc. Only after you feel 100% satisfied, submit your DS-160.
– Know your itinerary well. What day you will arrive, how long you will stay in the US, what activities you will be doing while you are there, etc. You will be asked these questions and you must have clear answers to these questions.
Marvin says
Hi sir, thanks for the great work of helping.
1 week ago I submitted my DS-160 F1 student application and paid MTV fee, and on that part of the point of contact in the USA, I didn’t put my school official but I put my uncle/sponsor as my point of contact in the USA. Will this lead to my visa denial?
Thirumal says
Hi Marvin! This will not affect your F1 visa result. But if you are concerned, fill a new DS-160. Carry both the old and new DS-160 confirmations to your visa interview.
Gemma says
Hi, I have a few questions: I’m from the UK and travelling to Orlando for a friends wedding
Firstly – In regards to the part ‘Enter your National Identification Number’ what number would this be? or does it not apply?
Secondly – Where it asks for Arrival Flight/City and Departure Flight/City, what would I put for this as it asks for the ‘Date of Travel’ then it asks Arrival date first. Surely this would be where I am going (Orlando) then departure flight is where I am departing from so both Orlando. Is that correct?
Thank you.
Thirumal says
Hi Gemma! First of all, as a UK national, you are eligible for “visa waiver”. You don’t need a visa for visits to the US up to 90 days. All you need is an ESTA. More information on ESTA here -> https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/
But if you need to be there for more than 90 days, you would need a visa.
1. The National Identification Number is the unique identity number that your government provides. For example, SSN in the US. I believe the National Insurance Number (NI) in the UK is equivalent to the SSN in the US. If so, then you can enter your NI number.
2. If you haven’t booked your flight tickets yet, I suggest selecting “No” to the question “Have you made specific travel plans”. Then it will ask only 3 questions which are easy to answer – (1) Intended Date of Arrival, (2) Intended Length of Stay in the U.S. and (3) Address Where You Will Stay in the U.S.
But, if you have booked your flight tickets already, then you need to refer to the flight tickets to enter this information. Check your flight tickets for the dates of arrival and departure and cities of arrival and departure.
Giova says
Hi Thirumal,
This is a question regarding the “Travel Companion” section:
I currently hold a working visa and I am applying for an extension with the same employer a couple of months before the expiration of my current visa/I-94.
I am traveling out of the U.S. by myself for consular processing. My spouse and child are staying in the U.S. with their current dependent visas and I-94s having more than a year before expiration.
Should the answer to “Are there other persons traveling with you?” be “No” since I am traveling and applying alone this time?
Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Giova! That’s correct. Your answer to that question should be “No” since you will be traveling back to the US by yourself.
Jen Chung says
Hi!
I’m a Taiwanese undergraduate student who has been studying at a university in Hong Kong. However, I will be transferring to a university in the U.S in the upcoming fall. I was just wondering how I should fill in the Student/Exchange Visa/SEVIS Information section of the form. I was asked to provide information for additional points of contact. I will copy paste the instruction here for your reference: “You have indicated that you will be studying in some capacity while in the United States. List at least two contacts in your country of residence who can verify the information that you have provided on this application. Do not list immediate family members or other relatives. Post office box numbers are unacceptable.”
Do you think it will be alright for me to use my friends who are also studying in Hong Kong as points of contact?
Thanks in advance!
Thirumal says
Hi Jen! My knowledge and experience are only in tourist visas. That being said, I will try to answer your question with the limited knowledge I have in student visas.
Yes, you can use friends, colleagues or teachers as your contacts in your country of residence. Let your friends know about it so that they can verify the details quickly and easily when the US consulate contacts them.
Nitin says
Hi Thirumal,
It’s very good to see you replying all the questions so promptly. Thanks for your efforts!
I am a PR in Canada and yet to find a job.
However, since most of the prospective companies have their offices in the U.S.A., a valid U.S. visa is always preferred.
From that perspective, i.e. to make my profile stronger (to have an advantage in an interview), what type of visa should I select during the application?
Thanks for your reply.
Kind regards,
Thirumal says
Hi Nitin! I suggest selecting “B1/B2”. Since the US visas are issued for 10 years, it’s wise to get a B1/B2 which can be used for both tourism and business. If you have to visit your employer’s officers in the US or just take a vacation to the US, your B1/B2 works perfectly fine.
Arun says
Hi Thirumal, I am going on an internship to the US. I have got an invitation letter stating the funding I will be getting along with the period of internship. However, there is a typo in the “To” address on the letter, which is actually my house address. There is a typo (missing 2 a’s) in the street name alone and reset of the address is fine. Will this be an issue during the interview and will I be denied a VISA solely because of this? Thanks a lot in advance!
Regards
Thirumal says
Hi Arun! The VOs don’t ask for any letters or documentation. Even if you carry the letter with you, the chances of them asking for it is very slim. Therefore, I wouldn’t worry about it.
Anonym says
Are the VO aware of the applicants’ credit history? Would that matter for denying your visa?
Got my Passport renewed, how they will know my travel history?
My parents were separated legally, should I put my mother’s maiden name?
Thank you
Thirumal says
Hi Anonym! If you have lived in the US before and have an SSN, they may do a criminal check on you but I don’t think they do a credit check.
You have to mention your travel history in your DS-160. And, you also have to carry both your old and new passports to your visa interview.
Enter your mother’s name as it appears in her passport. If her name is changed back to her maiden name on her current passport, then enter her maiden name.
Shahriar says
Hi Thirumal, need your help. My sister wants to retrieve her DS-160 form through which she applied for US visa back in May 2012. Thankfully, the visa was approved. Now she wants to retrieve that form to extract some important information. When she inserted her application ID, it shows ‘no match found’. Now, what should we do now?
Thirumal says
Hi Shahriar! Your completed DS-160 is only available for 30 days from submission. After that, you won’t be able to access your DS-160 online. See if she has a PDF version DS-160. Usually, after the submission, you will be asked to download the DS-160 and the confirmation. If she has downloaded the PDF version of her DS-160, then she can extract from there the information she is looking for.
Usman says
Dear Thirumal,
Greetings. Hope you are well. I need advice from you
I was doing Ph.D. (part-time) along with a full-time job in 2016 and travelled US on B1 visit visa. I mentioned in the application that I am doing a Ph.D. as well as I mentioned my employment.
Now, I have been admitted to a full-time Ph.D. program in the US and I haven’t told the university of my previous Ph.D. education (I am still enrolled but not planning to pursue it anymore) however it is mentioned in my previous DS-160 Form as PhD [the word part-time is not mentioned in my previous application].
Now I have to apply for student Visa. I am worried that US visa officer may ask I was doing Ph.D. here why I am going for Ph.D. abroad. Can I skip the mentioning of the Ph.D. I am doing on the Education section to avoid such questions?
If the Visa Officer looked into my previous Application he will know I have skipped it. Should I mention it or skip it?
I appreciate your guidance.
Best.
Thirumal says
Hi Usman! Apologize for the delay in responding to your query. Your situation is unique and I don’t have any personal experience in it. I have been researching to figure a solution for you, but unfortunately, I couldn’t.
Your situation is like a double-edged sword. It can affect your visa result either way. If I was you, I would mention your part-time Ph.D. in Education section. I will explain the VO if I was asked.
Usman says
Dear Thriumal,
Due to blessings of Allah Almighty, I have got my visa. I mentioned my Ph.D. as it was mentioned in my previous visa application and not mentioned the word “part-time”. The visa officer didn’t ask me anything about it, however, my visa went into administrative processing and they asked my research plan, CV and advisor CV via email. I submitted this info and got my Visa in 28 days.
I am grateful for your kind support. You are doing a great job Indeed!
Best Regards,
Usman
Thirumal says
Hi Usman! Thanks for the kind words! I am glad your visa is approved. Congratulation and have a great trip!
alejandra says
Hi! I have a couple of questions:
1. I hold a tourist visa now I’m applying for an F1 visa now. before my the B1/B2 visa, I was denied a tourist visa before. When asked the questions, if I have been denied a visa before, I select yes /no?
2. It only asked for work information, actual employer and previous one, nothing related to education or travel history, is it ok? Even though I’m applying for a student visa?
Thank you in advance!
Thirumal says
Hi Alejandra!
1. You should select “Yes” and mention your previous visa denial. I know it was denied prior to your currently approved B1/B2, but you must still disclose it. This information will be in their records and if you don’t disclose it, it can come off as lying or withholding information.
2. Education, travel history and some other information are only required from female applicants of certain countries. Don’t worry about it if you are not asked to fill those details.
hassan says
Hi, my wife was living in the USA and I am applying spouse visiting visa just a temporary. So, when I selected the DS-160 it shows some categories like F2 spouse or child F1, E3D spouse or child of an E3 so which category do I choose?
Thirumal says
Hi Hassan! The category of your visa depends on your wife’s current visa status in the US. If she is studying on an F1 visa, then you select “F2”. If she is working on an H1B visa, then you select “H4”, etc. Therefore, knowing your wife’s visa category will help you apply for the correct visa category.
Sed says
Hi Thirumal!
This is a question regarding the Occupation section. I just graduated college, reviewed for a board exam, and just passed the board exam two weeks ago. Basically, I am an engineer now but I am definitely unemployed. Should I put in the Occupation part that I am an engineer? I am thinking that it might make an impression that I am already working, and thus I may have to provide financial details of my own when I do not have one yet. Are there any options for that?
Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Sed! If you have just graduated and not yet working, “unemployed” is the appropriate “occupation”. If you select “engineer”, the VO will assume that you are working as an engineer.
Catherine Maramag says
Hi There Friend! I would like to ask if it’s okay to use the Point of Contact my relatives in New Jersey? I have indicated in my form that I am going to LA but I won’t be visiting them in NJ because of the distance. My understanding here is anyone in the US who knows about me, not anyone whom I will be visiting. Hope you could help. I have already submitted my application and just realized if I have indicated it correctly or not.
Thirumal says
Hi Catherine! I usually suggest only using someone you will be visiting or the hotel you will be staying. I advise against using “anyone” because people tend to use literally “anyone” and this complicates the application. The more options you have, the more chances of making errors.
But technically, yes, you can use anyone who knows you and can vouch for you. If you have already used your relative in NJ as your point of contact, then don’t worry about it. Just in case if the consulate contacts, let your relatives know that you have indicated them as your point of contact
Lou says
Hi, same dilemma here. Will be visiting Guam but my relatives are in Florida. Not sure if I have to put the hotel or my relative’s address in Point of Contact. How did your visa interview go?
Thirumal says
Hi Lou! I will let Catherine respond to your query.
My opinion: It doesn’t really matter but whichever details you give, let them know that you gave their details. That way they will be prepared to respond to any phone calls from the department of state.
Sree says
Dear brother,
As I told you that I have added a friend name in US point of contact. Can I change that on the name of the hotel where I would be staying to avoid risking my visa refusal? If I update my US point of contact. Will they be able to see my old ds160 and know that I have changed my us point of contact will I be questioned unnecessarily about the changes and to validate the reason during the interview. I have heard that if you add your friend name, they might question you about his details of work and ID and bank statement. Is it true? Please let me know.
Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Sree! The VO will only see the DS-160 that you provide. The other DS-160s you have filled are not relevant. The VO will not ask for documentation from your friend such as ID, bank statements, etc., but VO will definitely ask questions on your friend.
Nami says
Hi, I submitted the DS-160 application for an H1B visa. DS-160 confirmation page got generated but I didn’t get the email (email address is correct though). Is that fine?
Generated DS160 confirmation page is in Hindi but my preferred language is English. In which language my interview will be taken?
Thanks,
Nami
Thirumal says
Hi Nami! It’s fine. All you need is a print of the DS-160 confirmation. If you have taken a print of your DS-160 confirmation already, then there is no need to have it in your email.
You will select your interview language while scheduling your visa appointment. Make sure you select “English” as your preferred language while scheduling your visa appointment. Then your visa interview will be in English.
Arjun says
Hi,I am going on an internship to a college in the US. I have my mentor as my US point of contact. Can you please tell me what I should mention in the relation tab. Should it be ‘OTHER’, ‘SCHOOL OFFICIAL’ or ‘EMPLOYER'(as I will be getting a stipend from him)? Thanks in advance.
Thirumal says
Hi Arjun! I’m assuming you are going to this college in the US to “Intern” and not to “study”. In that case, you should select “EMPLOYER”.
Hannah says
Hello sir, what does BUSINESS stand for under primary occupation? Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Hannah! You will select BUSINESS as your primary occupation if you are a business owner. You run the business on a daily basis, hold a position in the company and have all relevant business proofs such as business registration, tax returns, etc.
Sree says
Dear Brother,
First of all your blog is very helpful to everyone. I have applied for my tourist visa and submitted by DS-160 application.
1) I’m working in Abu Dhabi for a government firm and I am from Bangalore India. Where should I attend my visa interview? Is it better to attend in India or Abu Dhabi? I travel every 28 days back to India as I have a rotational job.
2) US point of contact. I have mentioned an old friend of mine in the US as a point of contact. Will they call and verify about me? I was not sure whose name I should write and I have informed him about the same. Would it be a reason for visa refusal? If he asks are you going to meet your friend. what should be the best answer since I am not sure I will meet him as I mentioned 2 weeks I will be back.
3) I have never traveled to Europe or the US before. I worked only in GCC countries. If the officer asks me why you want to go to only the US for tourism. What should I answer. I am seriously going only for sightseeing and tourism. Please advise.
4) Is it true that I will get 5 years visa in Abudhabi for B1/B2 and In India, we get 10 years for tourist? Please advise.
Thank you for your support. Awaiting your reply at the earliest
***
I just forgot to ask you one more query. My family is in India and I am attending my visa interview Abu Dhabi since I have a rotational job they don’t stay with me in UAE (Abu Dhabi). So will that be a reason for visa refusal for me? Please advise or shall I fill a new application with new place of visa interview in India and change Abu Dhabi. Is it possible to change now since my interview is already scheduled for July last week in Abu Dhabi. I also need to change the mailing address in that case. I am confused. Kindly advise.
Thirumal says
Hi Sree!
1) You can attend for your US visa interview in Abu Dhabi or India, wherever it’s convenient for you. Location wise it’s not an issue. But if you attend in Abu Dhabi, the VO will expect you to show strong ties with Abu Dhabi.
2) If you will not be meeting your friend, you could just put your hotel as your US point of contact. Hotel is the most appropriate US point of contact for tourist trips.
3) There is no way to convince the VO. You just have to tell the truth. If you are going for sightseeing, then just tell the VO that you are going for sightseeing.
4) No. Visa validity is based on the passport. If you hold an India passport, you will be issued a 10-year visa irrespective of where you have applied from.
***
Since you work in Abu Dhabi and plan to attend your visa interview there, you have to show strong ties with Abu Dhabi. If you travel to India quite often and your family is back in India, then your ties with Abu Dhabi aren’t that strong.
Visa fee is specific to a country. Therefore, if you want to attend your interview in India, then you have to pay the fee again in India and then schedule the appointment.
Jehan Martinez says
If my k1 fiance submits her ds-160 buts needs to update information (not from a mistake, but a different job position, etc) does she need to start a brand new DS 160 application with the new confirmation? Or can she just update the one she submitted but still print the confirmation page at the end?
I heard you can’t make any changes after submitting, but I also heard you can within 30 days, but you need to start a new application with a new confirmation and bring the old and new ones to the interview. Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Jehan! That’s correct. Your fiance can update her DS-160 within 30 days of submission. It will create a new confirmation which she needs to bring to the interview. After 30 days of submission, the DS-160 will not be accessible. In that case, she has to fill a new one and bring the new confirmation with her to the interview.
Rebecca says
Hello, I am working presently as a sales representative in a watch shop but I don’t know what to fill in my primary occupation. I have a brother in the USA and now my boyfriend invited me to come for a holiday because am staying with him. Who is my US point of contact? Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Rebecca! You should select “OTHER” for primary occupation and explain that you are a sales representative in the “Explain” box.
Your US point of contact would be your boyfriend since you will be going to the US to visit him.
Nina says
Hello,
Thank you for this wonderful blog! I am filling DS160 for my sisters. At the end of the application, what do I select for “Did anyone assist you in filling out this application”? Don’t they see the application was submitted from US IP address if I checked “no”?
Thirumal says
Hi Nina! You can select “Yes” to that question and fill your details as the “preparer”. Leaving it as “No” will also won’t affect their visa results.
Jehan Martinez says
Hello! My fiance from Germany is currently working on her DS 160 for our K1 Visa, but we are experiencing some issues:
On her work history, after she puts in her present employer and clicks next, it doesn’t let her enter her previous work history, only additional. We tried on 2 different computers with the same issue. However, when she clicks “Back” it shows the previous page, which she fills in but it doesn’t save it even after clicking save.
The 2nd issue is about her present employer. Her employer is a service provider where they help people find jobs. Like a staffing temp agency. They helped her find a job, so her position isn’t permanent because it’s only temporary work. She might have a different position next month depending on if the staffing agency has open positions at a different location, or she may not have any work. So we feel like we have to update or change her ds 160 information after submitting and provide a new confirmation page correct? Because we don’t want her info on the DS 160 to be different when she has her interview. It will look like she lied on her application but she’s confused what to enter. But what exactly does she update on her work history? Does she just remove the info under “describe briefly job duties” and monthly income or does she remove her present employer information altogether because technically she will be still employed with them, just not have any work right away because it varies depending on if there is work available? Is this something she can explain to the Officer in her interview and hope they will understand her situation, OR it has to match exactly what the DS 160 reflects.
We don’t know how to go on about this and we want to make sure we don’t confuse or make the consular officer deny her visa because of this.
Please help, thank you so much
Thirumal says
Hi Jehan!
1st Issue
I don’t know what exactly is causing that. A few assumptions
– Previous work, education, languages and travel history are not required from female applicants of certain nationalities. These sections are only shown to applicants (both male and female) from countries that the US considers as questionable. Germany is definitely not in that list and therefore those sections may not be applicable to female applicants from Germany.
– The application itself is buggy. I had issues with some fields that were visible sometime and weren’t sometimes. But ultimately, all information was shown on the “Review” page. Therefore, I suggest going all the way to the “Review” step and see if her “Previous work” information is showing there.
2nd Issue
First of all, her answers in DS-160 and interview must match. Secondly, her employment situation is quite confusing. If she considers the company that she is working for as an “employer”, then she must be paid at all times irrespective of whether she has work or not. If that company is staffing (headhunting) agency, then she is “self-employed”. She may be taking the help of this company to find work, but she is directly paid from the clients and therefore she is “self-employed”.
I suggest figuring the type of employment first and then entering the information in her DS-160 accordingly.
Riti says
Hi, I am on L1 Visa in the US and now going to my home country for H1B visa stamping.
In the question “who is paying for your trip”? What should I select from below options –
U.S petitioner or Employer in the U.S.
Both options look the same to me. Please help.
Thirumal says
Hi Riti! It doesn’t really matter that much. I worked in the US as well and went for stamping thrice. I always selected “SELF” for that question. But below is the explanation on what those two options mean.
US Petitioner: It’s your first H1B and you haven’t started working for this employer yet. You are still in your home country and your US petitioner is going to pay for your trip.
Employer in the US: You are already working for this employer in the US (on L1/H1) and this employer will pay for your trip.
Hannah says
Hi, I would like you to assist me with these questions. I work as a secretary in a stockbroking firm so what category does my primary occupation belong. Secondly, I have been working with the same company for 10 years, can I as well fill it as my previous occupation? Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Hannah! In your case, you can select “OTHER” for “Primary Occupation”. An “Explain” box will show up in which you can explain your work. Ex: I work as a secretary in the stockbroking firm xyz.
No. You have to enter all your 10 years of experience for “Present Employer” since it’s your current job.
Nami says
Thanks for the response!!!
1. If you haven’t booked your tickets back to the US yet, then answer “No” to the question “have you made any specific plans?”. Yes, your length of the stay must be up to the expiry of your current I-797.
>> {Nami} Can I provide an approximate date as intended date of arrival in the US ?
2. Your length of stay would be from the “date of arrival” to the date you will leave to your home country for stamping.
>> {Nami} I have not booked my tickets yet so can I provide approximation length of stay in this field?
Thanks !!!
Thirumal says
Hi Nami!
1. Yes, you can provide an approximate intended date of arrival in the US.
2. Yes, you can provide the approximate length of stay. It’s perfectly fine.
Nami says
Hi,
I am already in the US and I have to go to my home country for VISA Stamping and come back to the US.
Please help me on below questions
Question 1: What should I fill in “Have you made any specific plans”? I don’t have the exact intended date of arrival? and What would be the length of Stay (up to the expiry of I-797)?
Question 2: Previous US travel information:
Date of arrival: I know this
length of stay: I am already in the US so what should I fill in the length of stay?
Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Nami!
1. If you haven’t booked your tickets back to the US yet, then answer “No” to the question “have you made any specific plans?”. Yes, your length of the stay must be up to the expiry of your current I-797.
2. Your length of stay would be from the “date of arrival” to the date you will leave to your home country for stamping.
Sairam says
I have paid MRV fees for my B1 Visa but I did not book any slot. I have this unique MRV fee receipt. Can I use this unique receipt number for booking B1 visa slot for other applicants (ex: My family member/ friend)?
Thirumal says
Hi Sriram! Yes, MRV fee is transferable. But if the receipt number is tagged to your profile in some way, it cannot be transferred. For example: If you have used the receipt number to book a slot, but you did not as your desired dates weren’t available. In that case, the receipt number is now tagged to your profile. The best way is to have your family member or friend try the receipt number.
BOM says
Hi, I have a question. In the home address, Should I write my Home Address in the Philippines or address here in Riyadh where I am living because of work.
Thirumal says
Hi BOM! If you are living in Riyadh, then your “home” and “mailing” addresses will be your address in Riyadh.
Padme says
Hi. I just want to ask about the Family Information. It asked about the immediate family in the US. What if I have a sibling who’s only in the US to complete her training but she is not really living in the US? Should I answer it yes and put her info or No?
Hope you can answer because I’m stuck in this question ?♀️
Thirumal says
Hi Padme! If your sibling is in the US, then you should answer “Yes” to that question and put her information.
The question is “do you have any relatives IN THE US”. Therefore, if you have relatives (living, working, studying, etc) in the US, then you answer “Yes” to that question.
Oluwole says
I am an F1 visa applicant. I scheduled an appointment with the US embassy, the earliest date was August 7, 2019. The Programme start date is 9th August 2019. Can I apply for an expedite appointment? Thank you.
Thirumal says
Hi Oluwole! Yes, you can try for an expedited appointment. Also, keep an eye on the wait times at the consulate you have applied and other consulates in your country. When the wait times drop, cancel and schedule your appointment. A few readers here had the success that way.
john says
Hi, Good morning! I have gone through some comments posted on your platform and I must comment that you are doing a great job. There are some questions I would like to ask you. I am a resident of DUBAI and I work as sales with a jewelry company in 2016 I was refused US visa and the last question was how long have you been in UAE and I said 2 years but the VO said sorry we can’t grant you the visa and she gave me the 214b letter. I am in my home country for vacation and I want to apply with my wife and daughter to visit DISNEYLAND. My questions are stated below.
1. PRIMARY OCCUPATION. I work as sales so what should I fill in.
2. MONTHLY SALARY. Should I write the currency in the home country or UAE dirhams?
3. BRIEFLY DESCRIBE YOUR DUTIES. What to fil in.
4. POINT OF CONTACT. My first application purpose was to visit my sister who is a citizen in the US but now I am going to DISNEYLAND with my wife and daughter. What will be my point of contact?
please kindly reply to me. Thanks in anticipation, from JOHN
Thirumal says
Hi John!
1. You will select “OTHER” and then an “Explain” box will appear. Explain your job title in the “explain” box.
2. It would be in the currency of your home country since you are applying for the visa from your home country. Convert your monthly salary in UAE dirhams into your home country currency and then enter the number.
3. You have to write the duties you perform at your job.
4. Your point of contact will be your hotel address in Disneyland.
Kashaf says
Hi, I have two questions regarding my Visa Application for DS-160. I have mistakenly entered “No” to the question where it asked if you have ever attended secondary level education or above? Should I submit a new application given I haven’t paid the visa fee or scheduled an appointment. However, I have mentioned my current education details in the section where it asked about present school. How important is it to fill the application form again if I have missed out on this information?
Secondly, is it okay to choose someone as a sponsor for your trip who is not in the same country as you and is not living in the US either?
Thank you for your help!
Thirumal says
Hi Kashaf!
1. It is very important to fill every detail in DS-160. Holding back information is also considered as lying, which could affect your visa result. Therefore, I suggest you fill a new DS-160.
2. Yes, but expect questions on your sponsor and your relationship with the sponsor.
Bijay Gaire says
Hello Sir! Hope you are fine and healthy. Highly appreciate your answers.
What are the documents that are required for my mother DS-160 (visa B2) class interview? My mother is applying B2 VISA class to meet the sister in the US. According to the Instructions of the APPOINTMENT CONFIRMATION page please see it
Instructions
Documents required during the Interview:
1. Appointment Confirmation letter;
2. Original passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay for
travel to the United States;
3. DS-160 Confirmation page print out. (DS160 application cannot be reused. A new DS-160 application needs to be filled for each time the applicant appears for the visa Interview);
4. Photograph: One recent 2 x 2 inches (50 mm X 50 mm) color photograph, without borders, no glasses or hat/cap, full-face view directly facing the camera taken within last 06 months against a plain white background. This web page has information about the required photo
format.
5. Original DS- 2019, I- 20 or I- 797, or any other supporting document if applicable.
What are the documents that indicate in options 5? Though I have all above (1-4) documents with recent photo as specified in (photo instructions), but couldn’t understand that of option 5. What are the documents (any other supporting document if applicable) to be taken? Should My mother provide Relationship Verification Documents with Sister or any other documents?
Another Question regarding the checking at https://ceac.state.gov at nonimmigrant visa and I hit the Application ID or Case Number as AA00XXXXXX and check the Status. It always shows “No Status” though my mother has paid the required fee for B2 VISA and got the appointment confirmation. When it will be updated? The interview date is June 13, 2019. Will it be updated the day before the interview or after the interview, it only now shows case created date?
Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Bijay! Option 5 is not relevant for B2 visa. Those documents in Option 5 are for study visa (I-20), work visa (I-797), etc. B2 visa is for tourism purpose and option 5 is not relevant.
Your mother must carry additional documentation such as
– Proof of relationship
– Copy of your sister’s status in the US (visa, greencard, etc)
– Copy of your sister’s employment and financial proofs
– You mother’s employment (if applicable) and financial proofs
There won’t be any visa status prior to attending the interview. There won’t be any even after interview unless your monther’s visa is put on hold for further administrative processing. Administrative processing is basically a background check on the applicant, which can take up to 3 months. But it’s rare for B2 visas as B2 visas are usually either approved or denied.
Bijay Gaire says
Hi Thirumal sir greetings,
I have filed my mothers DS-160 forms and I have paid her non-immigrant visa fees at bank specified by the US Embassy and interview is scheduled by entering the receipt number given by the bank. My questions is that should my mother have to appear at MEDICAL CHECKUP center at International Organization for Migration (IOM) or it is not needed for her. Can she be appear directly at the interview at scheduled date? Moreover my sister is at US from the Diversity Visa (DV) category visa and she wants to bring mother to the US.
Please clarify me. Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Bijay! For B1/B2, a medical checkup is not required. If she is applying for a different category of visa, then I don’t know the procedure for those visas. My experience and knowledge are only in tourist visas.
Prashant Mathapati says
My parents are living in the USA on L1 visa, but I’m going to the USA for a student exchange program. I have an invitation letter from the University of Massachusetts. After the student exchange program, I’ll be visiting my parents for a week and then flying back to India. In parents info can I mention that they are living in the US or should I just mention India to be on the safer side?
Thirumal says
Hi Prashant! If your parents are currently in the US, then you have to mention that they are in the US in your DS-160. Their information will already be in the systems and it may be verifiable. If you say that they are in India, it can be considered as lying and can be used against you. This could lead to visa refusal and sometimes permanent ban. Don’t make that mistake. Just mention that they are in the US.
Diwakar Rane says
Hello Thirumal,
Many thanks!!! You are doing a good job by providing information to the needy ones.
I am going to travel on a tourist visa with my wife and my father-in-law. Do I need to fill up separate DS-160 forms for my self, my wife as well as for my father-in-law also? Please clarify. Thanks in advance
-Diwakar
Thirumal says
Hi Diwakar! Yes, you have to fill three DS-160 forms. One for each applicant.
Start the first DS-160 with the primary applicant. After submitting the form, on the “thank you” page, you will be given the option to create the remaining two DS-160 forms. If you follow the instructions from there, some of the common information (such as travel dates, companions, etc) will be copied over to the remaining DS-160 forms. It saves you a lot of time.
Diwakar Rane says
Hi! Our VISA interview is scheduled in the first week of August 2019. While submission of the DS-160 form I forgot to save and print the form. Now, how do I print my already submitted DS-160 form? I understand that VO will ask questions based on your filled DS-160 form. Your help will be highly appreciated. Regards,
Thirumal says
You don’t have to bring the completed DS-160 form for the interview. All you need is your DS-160 confirmation with the barcode on it.
If you have forgotten to print your DS-160 confirmation, you can reprint it by going to the CEAC home page and clicking on “Retrieve an Application”.
Diwakar Rane says
I do have DS-160 confirmation copy and hard copy also. I need to print my submitted DS-160 form, from which questions are asked during the interview.
Thirumal says
Unfortunately, you cannot anymore. You will only be given the option to print (or save a soft copy) your completed DS-160 form right after you submit it. You can’t print it later.
Gaby says
Hi. Few questions: it’s asking for city and state/providence. I can’t find on an Australian passport. Where can I find the answers?
Thirumal says
Hi Gaby! I am assuming you are asking for the question “Where was the passport issued”? If they are not on the passport, you can just enter where your passport was issued.
Prashant Mathapati says
My parents are currently living in the US on L1 L2 visa, I am now filling the DS 160 form for myself. When I click on YES, for the option Is your dad/mom living in the US. The visa type of my dad/mom is asked but there is no option for L1 and L2. Which is the other alternative that I can choose? Right now I have chosen other/don’t know.
Thirumal says
Hi Prashant! You should not select a wrong visa category of your parents. If L1 and L2 are not in the list, then “other/don’t know” is the appropriate option.
Sade says
Hi, my name is sade. Does visa fee different from MRV fee? Please, I don’t understand. And please how many days can the visa form spent before submission?
Thirumal says
Hi Sade! Visa fee and MRV fee are the same. Once you start your DS-160, you will have 30 days to complete and submit it. After 30 days, your unsubmitted DS-160 will not be accessible and you would need to fill a new one.
Egbeyale Florence says
Thank you. I am applying for a student visa with my husband and kids as a dependant.
My questions:
1. Do we need to fill different DS-160 forms?
2. Do I need to fill my husband and kids as people traveling with me?
3. Does my husband need to fill anybody under any person traveling with him?
Thirumal says
Hi Egbeyale!
1. Yes. You need to fill a different DS-160 form for everyone. One for you, one for your husband and one for each of your kids.
2. Yes. You need to enter your husband and kids as the people traveling with you.
3. Yes. Your husband must also enter anyone traveling with him.
I suggest you complete your DS-160 form first. At the last step (thank you page), you will be given an option to create DS-160 forms for others traveling with you. This will open a new DS-160 form for each of them and will copy some of the common information including the people traveling with them.
Rubaitur says
Hi Thirumal,
Can you please help me in clarifying the below query regarding filling D 160 form.
In my Indian Passport, place of birth mentioned is Rampur, West Bengal. Here Rampur is a small village in Malda town (district) of state West Bengal. I have address documents regarding the same.
However, I was checking the D-160 form, the place of birth mentioned as a “City”. What should I fill here ?’
I have been selected in H1B lottery this year and looking forward for the next steps for visa approval, etc where it seems filling up D-160 is necessary.
Can you please help me with the case.
Thirumal says
Hi Rubaitur! “City” in DS-160 doesn’t mean an actual city. It can be a village, town, or city. Therefore, you should enter “Rampur” for city and “West Bengal” for state.
Edelweiss Miguel says
I am confused in the Passport Section “Where was the Passport/Travel Document Issued?” It was the Philippines because that is my Nationality but I renew my passport here in Philippine Embassy Riyadh, Saudi Arabia because I work here.
What will I write?
Appreciate your help!
Thirumal says
Hi Edelweiss! If you have renewed your passport in Riyadh, then you must answer “Riyadh” to that question.
NOTE: Check your passport. The “place of issue” should be somewhere on your passport. If it’s not on your passport, then enter “Riyadh” for the above question.
Udayanga says
Hi Thirumal,
I’m currently in the US under F2 dependent visa. I got the admission to the Ph.D. program with an assistantship (TA) offer.
DS-160 asks who is paying for your trip. I was thinking they mean ‘who’s going to cover flight charges’ etc. so I thought I’d mention ‘other person’ and list the details of my wife. However, I saw a guideline online that says, ‘it should be the name of the person that has agreed to support you financially while you are in the US’. Well, in my case Ph.D. student with a TA offer that would be my university. Please clarify what would appropriate considering that I’m fully-funded by my department with a TA offer.
As per the I-20, my program end date is Aug 2025, what would be the appropriate time period to fill ‘Intended length of stay’ under travel plans?
Thirumal says
Hi Udayanga! First of all, if you are already in the US, then you can apply for a “change of status” from F2 to F1. You don’t need to go for an interview at a consulate outside the US. You would only need to appear at the consulate if you travel outside the US and need to re-enter on your F1 visa.
For the question “who is paying for the trip”, it’s the person who would be bearing your expenses in the US. Since you are fully-funded by your university, you will enter your university details for that question.
For the “intended length of stay”, enter the dates as per your I-20, that is till Aug 2025.
Grace says
Hi again.
I plan to schedule my interview online.
My email was previously used by my mom. Can I register another account using a different email address? And will it have problems since the email address indicated on my DS 160 will be different from the online visa application registration?
Thank you 🙂
Thirumal says
Hi Grace! Yes, you can register another account with a different email. Your email for the account has nothing to do with the email you have mentioned in your DS-160. They can be different and it won’t be an issue.
grace says
What a relief. Thank you so much.. You’re really helping us and making it easy for us.
Thanks!
Ladi Oye says
I got that part in the article, the person is actually female and she encountered the issue. Hope this will not affect the person on the day of her interview? what do you think? she cant fill her travel history and her education.
I await your response.
Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Ladi! I personally think that travel history and education are very important details for an applicant. The applicant is at a disadvantage of not being able to enter those details. Lack of those details may affect the visa decision.
Ladi Oye says
Please, help I was filling the DS-160 application form and I noticed that some pages are not there in the form.
DS 160 form not asking for previous experience and education and travel history.
Please someone should help confirm.
Thirumal says
Hi Ladi! Those sections are not shown for female applicants for certain countries. Please read the note in the article. It explains the reason clearly.
Ali says
Dear Thirumal,
Kindly advise whether it’s better to apply for B2 visa with the family or for myself first. We are all living in Dubai.
Regards,
Ai
Thirumal says
Hi Ali! I suggest applying for your B2 visa with your family.
Glenda says
Hello, I am currently filling out our ds 160. We are very confused on the surnames. We are Filipinos and we do have middle names. Middle names are the surname of our mother when she was still single. Once a woman gets married, her surname will become her middle name. And the surname of her husband becomes her surname as well.
FOR MEN
For Example: surname: Dela Cruz / Givenname: Juan / Middle Name: Santos
How are we going to fill up the surnames box and givenames box?
How about for married woman?
Example: Surname after marriage: Dela Cruz / Givenname: Susana / Middle name: Garcia
Name before marriage: Surname: Garcia / Givenname: Susana / Middle name: Sanchez
How am I going to fill up the surnames? givennames? and the maiden?
It is really confusing. Please help.
Thanks a lot.
Thirumal says
Hi Glenda! Yes, Filipino passports have “Middle Name”. You will simply add your “Middle Name” to your “Given Name” and enter that in your DS-160 “Given Name”. Examples below –
Passport (Men)
Surname: Dela Cruz
Given Names: Juan
Middle Name: Santos
DS-160 (Men)
Surname: Dela Cruz
Given Names: Juan Santos
Passport (Married woman after marriage)
Surname: Dela Cruz
Given Names: Susana
Middle Name: Garcia
DS-160 (Married woman after marriage)
Surname: Dela Cruz
Given Names: Susana Garcia
DS-160 (Married woman before marriage)
Maiden Name: Susana Sanchez Garcia
Gurinder says
I have a peculiar situation. I have filled DS-160 when I was working with my previous ORG but couldn’t go for an interview. Can I use the same application for my new company interview? This is for a B1/B2 visa.
Thirumal says
Hi Gurinder! Yes, you can. But your circumstances have changed (new employment) and your DS-160 is not current anymore. If you DS-160 is not current, it could lead to issues and visa refusal. For example, when the visa officer asks about your current employment. Your answer (new company) will not match with the information in DS-160 (previous company). So, the VO might assume that you are lying. The VO may not give you enough time to explain why your DS-160 says something different.
I suggest filling a new DS-160 with current information including your new employment. You can upload your previous DS-160 to pre-populate a new DS-160 and make the changes accordingly. It saves you a lot of time.
Muhammad Khan says
Hi Thirumal,
I was applying for a visit visa but I don’t have a exact destination yet in USA. I will book a hotel when we will reached there but while I was filling the form for visa it asked me for the address. So, can you please guide me up for it how should I apply for visa.
Thirumal says
Hi Muhammad! First of all, you must have an itinerary in mind, such as dates of travel, number of days in the US and the places that you plan to visit. You will definitely be asked questions on your itinerary. Failing to have a clear itinerary mostly probably leads to visa refusal.
For filling your DS-160, I suggest booking a “refundable” hotel and using their address in your DS-160. If at all the consulate contacts the hotel, the staff at the hotel can respond with your booking details. You can cancel your booking after you receive your visa.
Zahid says
Hi, Thirumal
Firstly, Thanks for all the information that you shared for us. So I have two questions :
1) I’m an international student in Italy. So according to that, I have a temporary residence permit as a student. But my home country is Azerbaijan. Do you have to emphasize my temporary residence permit somewhere on DS-160 form? I’m applying for F1 (Language School) US Embassy in Rome.
2) The part “who will be paying for the trip”. I’m stuck in this question. My father put some amount of money into my account. So I got the bank statement. How should I respond to this question? Self or others?
Thanks in advance. Kind regards.
Thirumal says
Hi Zahid!
1) No. There is no option to specify your status in Italy. You will be asked that question during your interview. You will have the opportunity to explain at that time.
2) I don’t know how financial proofs for student visas (F1) work. My experience and knowledge are only in tourist visas. For tourist visas, the VO will not ask to show any documentation (even bank statements). They make the decision based on the information from DS-160 and interview.
RICHARD SANDERS says
Hi Thirumal: Please advise me on this vexing “standstill”. The Department of State seems to have no answer!
Description: TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: I have made over 10(?) attempts to retrieve/ resume my DS-160 form answering the questions about 5 first characters of my sister in law’s surname and her birth year: Arianana Cortes Cortes. I typed in CORTE and answered 1958 for her birth year. The “red letter message” stated Please correct all areas in error as indicated below. Once you have finished, click ‘Retrieve Application’ button to continue completing your online application form. Well, nothing here enlightened me as to the mistake. I’m truly puzzled by their lack of proficiency in solving such a matter. Help please if you can.
Surname does not match.
Year of Birth does not match.
The data was correct! I have looked for a “HELP PAGE” for this but to no avail. I am again at a standstill for something quite minor. I certainly would appreciate any help you can provide me.
Thirumal says
Hi Richard! If that information is not matching, there is no way to retrieve the DS-160. Even the department of state will not help. They would also suggest creating a new one. I suggest creating a new DS-160. Make sure to check that you can retrieve your new DS-160 early on.
Note: I’m a bit confused on the birth year. You had used 1959 and 1954 in your earlier question. In this question, you said you have entered 1958. I’m assuming these are typos but if you are really using different years that do not match with her actual birth year, you won’t be able to retrieve her application.
Ivy says
Hi Thirumal,
Hoping to get your assistance on questions as follows – :
1) What if my appointment date is later than my intended travel date in visa applications?
2) If I and my mum are travelling together, does she need to complete the online application form? I’m quite sure this is the case, however, when filling out the DS-160 form, I couldn’t go through to the last “Sign” stage, after “Complete”, “Photo” and “Review”.
Thanks so much.
Ivy Jiang
Thirumal says
Hi Ivy!
1. In such cases, I suggest the following
– a. Delay your travel. You don’t need to create a new DS-160 for this small change but if you prefer, you can edit or create a new DS-160 and carry the print of the new DS-160 confirmation with you.
– b. Keep an eye on the wait times at the consulates where you scheduled your interview. When the wait times drop, cancel and rebook your appointment. You may be able to grab an appointment at an earlier date.
– c. Check the wait times at the other consulates in your country. Find a consulate with least wait times and schedule your appointment there.
2. Yes. You have to fill a DS-160 form for you and your mum has to fill one for herself. You can schedule a single visa appointment for both of you, so you both can go to the appointment together.
Are you getting an error on the “sign” page? If so, what error is that?
Dasha says
Thank you. And what if it’s not a US sponsor? What should the support of affidavit look like?
Thirumal says
Hi Dasha! You don’t need to provide any documentation if your sponsor is a non-US person. You just have to fill the relevant details in your DS-160 and have to answer any related questions during your interview.
Fazal Arafat says
Hi, I have submitted the application successfully. Do I have to fill a new DS-160 application if my wife is accompanying me?
Thirumal says
Hi Fazal! You have to fill a DS-160 form for your wife as well. After that, you both can schedule a single visa interview appointment.
Yas says
Hi Thirumal,
I’m applying for F1 visa currently. I have an aunt living with her whole family in the state where I’m planning to study, will it affect my application negatively if I mention them on my DS160 for the question ‘Do you have other relatives?’
My mum and dad are planning to come to drop me off and visit my aunt, however, my dad already has a visa to the US for 10 years and my mum hasn’t filed for a visa yet. Should I mention them on ‘other people travelling with you’ question? Their plan of coming with me is still not definite.
Thanks in advance!
Thirumal says
Hi Yas! No. It won’t affect your visa application. If you have your aunt in the US, then you have to select “Yes” for that question.
If your mum and dad’s plans are not definite yet, I suggest not mentioning about them joining you. Don’t complicate your application.
Tin Alcantara says
I’m planning to apply for a US Visa to attend my best friend’s sister’s wedding. My best friend will add me as a travel companion, but I’m planning to go back earlier than her. Example: She will stay there for 3 weeks but I will only stay there for two weeks. Is this possible? Or I would need to stay there for three weeks as well?
Thirumal says
Hi Tin! No, you don’t have to stay there for 3 weeks. You can return earlier. If you both are going there together, then you have to add your best friend as your travel companion, but you can return earlier than her.
Dasha says
Thank you so much for your response.
I have another question, and it will sound very stupid but I’m paranoid af. For all Nonimmigrant visa applications, is there are standard support of affidavit form to fill? I mean is I-134 the required SOA to take for the interview? Or does it vary from country to country?
Thirumal says
Hi Dasha! The I-134 is the same for all countries. You only have to fill and bring it to the interview if you have a US sponsor.
Grace says
Hi.
I have a petition on process I-130 and I am trying to apply for a Temporary Visa.
On the part of DS-160:
Has anyone ever filed an immigrant petition on your behalf with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services?
What will I be explaining?
Reasons why I am applying for a Temporary Visa or just indicate the details of my petition?
Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Grace! You will just enter the details of your petition, such as the type of petition, date of filing and current status.
Grace says
Can I indicate the reasons why I need to go visit my mom?
Thank you so much for your reply and time.
Thirumal says
Not in the field for “has anyone ever filed immigration petition..”. The purpose of your trip is not relevant to that question. You will be asked in your interview on why you need to travel to the US. You should explain the VO at that time.
grace says
Alright. Thank you so much for making time 🙂
I’ll update you if I had the chance to get a Visa.
Candice says
Thanks Thirumal! I got through at the embassy for my J1 visa. Your DS160 info helped a lot whilst filling out my application. Keep up the good work! 🙂
Thirumal says
Hi Candice! You’re welcome and good luck!
Samiah says
Hello Thirumal. I am going with the names of my biological parents like you advised, however, can I include my adopted siblings’ names under “immediate relatives living in the US”?
Thank you
Thirumal says
Hi Samiah! Yes, you will have to include your adopted siblings’ names under “immediate relatives”.
RICHARD SANDERS says
Sir: I am gratified to see your extensive guidance on your DS-160. I am sure I’ll be referring to it as I try to prepare my Panamanian sister in law’s nonimmigrant visa for a visit to our home in San Antonio. However, I’ve been stopped in my tracks very early; the problem is as follows: I had entered her surname as CORTES and date of birth as 1959. I left the application and returned and had to enter 3 mandatory questions, (1) the first 5 letters of her surname to which I answered CORTE and (2) her birth year, to which I answered 1954. (3) The third answer “city of her nearest relative was SATISFACTORY but #s (1) & (2) were deemed false-incorrect and so I have not been able to continue.
I made probably some 17 attempts at the retrieval, carefully scrutinizing where I might be in error but cannot figure what is wrong. Also, I looked for a telephone “Helpline” and have found none. I am fairly well vexed and only found your blog through Google Search. One more aspect of this I found to be most incongruent is that when I called the embassy in Panama they told me that they have nothing to do with the DS-160 forms and any attendant problems; that it is the Department of State, that addresses the characteristics and specifics of the form. Again I noted that no telephone helpline was to be found there and this question which they might regard as minutiae was not addressed.
I would be muchly appreciated if you could give me some guidance on this issue I seem to have exhausted any other possibilities. Thank you. Best Regards, Richard Sanders in San Antonio, Texas.
Thirumal says
Hi Richard! There must be some error in the information for those 3 questions. It’s not that you are entering them wrong to retrieve, but you may have entered them wrong in the form itself. If the information is not matching, there is no way to retrieve your application. The only option is to start a new one.
If you decide to start a new one, check that you can retrieve the application early on.
Note: You said her birth year is 1959 but you tried entering 1954. I am assuming that it is a typo in your question but if I suggest looking into that.
Dasha says
Hello Thirumal,
You have no clue how helpful this page has been. So, thanks!
I’m applying for an F1 visa and on my i-20, only the duration for my first semester is indicated(which is 4 months). However, I will be studying for a total of 20 months as indicated on the official offer letter. My question is, what should I write as my ‘Duration of stay?’
Thanks in advance.
Thirumal says
Hi Dasha! Your F1 validity depends on the reciprocity and not on the duration you enter in your DS-160. Therefore, it doesn’t really matter if you enter 4 months or 20 months. I would say, enter 4 months just to match with your I-20.
Refer to the Bureau of Consular Affairs website to see the duration of F1 visas issued for your country.
ADRIANA says
Hello! I would like to help me please! I am completing the DS-160 for a child of 12 years old, at the end page with sign and submit I am asked is someone had assisted me to fulfill, I say yes and I complete with the name of the father and address, but then is E SIGNATURE and it is asked to write the passport number: I don’t understand, I should write the child passport number for who is the application or the father’s passport number. Thank you.
Thirumal says
Hi Adriana! You must enter your child’s passport number on the “Sign and Submit” page. The passport number on the Signature page must match with the passport number of the applicant (your child) entered earlier in “04. Passport” page.
Bijay Gaire says
Hello Thirumal Sir
Good afternoon.
Thanks for all and all the right information.
I have one question regarding the filing of DS-160 FORM for the parents to bring them in the United States.
My sister is in the US from DIVERSITY VISA (DV) program since 5 years, now she wants to bring mom to the U.S. She doesn’t know anything that how to file for it. So I filed out DS-160 form for my mother while filing out I’m in confuse for below questions sir please provide me information about this.
On Step Travel of DS-160 form
1. Purpose of Trip to the U.S.
Ans- Temp. Business Pleasure Visitor (B)
2. Specify
Ans- Tourism/Medical Treatment (B2)
OR
Business & Tourism (Temporary Visitors) (B1/B2)
From the above options on each, which option should I choose to fill my mothers DS-160 form.
Is my options which I mentioned above are correct in option 2 of Specify Which answer should I choose B2 OR B1/B2 Please answer me, sir, I’m in trouble.
Thanks, waiting for your answer.
Thirumal says
Hi Bijay! Select “Tourism/Medical Treatment (B2)” for your mother’s DS-160.
Xxxx says
Dear Thirumal
Greetings.
Thanks a lot for the reply.
As I have no legal means, based on which I can find out my first name, middle name, and surname.
I’m currently studying masters in Germany.
In the university, they have written has First name: xxxx and Family name: yyyy zzzz, though I don’t have family name on my passport.
As I’m in need of US tourist visa now, I’m really not really getting how to deal this.
Right now I have filled DS-160 as follows
Given name: FNU
Surname: xxxx yyyy zzzz.
Please help me with this.
Thank you
Rekha
Thirumal says
Hi Rekha! Ok, a few things to do –
1) Send me an email with your full name and which part of India you come from. Maybe I can help.
2) Surname is basically “family name”. Check with your parents, siblings, cousins, etc to figure your family name. It could be one of those xxxx, yyyy or zzzz.
Your university probably assumed that yyyy zzzz is your family name. And this continues as your study, work or travel. Everyone will assume one/two of your names as your surname and it can make things much worse for you. You will end up with different documents with different names.
For your US visa, using FNU for your first name is the right way to go for now. If there is no “surname” in your passport, US authorities will issue your US visa with the first name as “FNU” and surname as “xxxx yyyy zzzz”.
I found this article online which may be useful on how to use FNU for your US visa.
xxxx says
Hi Thirumal
Thank you for helping us on the first hand.
My Given Name on Indian Passport is XXXX YYYY ZZZZ
I neither have the first name, nor surname.
Now, what should I fill on DS-160?
Thanks a lot
Thirumal says
Hi Xxxx! It’s a common occurrence in Indian passports. But it poses a big problem for visas. Most visa forms have given name and surname fields and both are mandatory.
If this is the first time you are filling a form (visa, education, government, etc) that is asking for a surname, then you have to first figure what exactly is your surname. Is it XXXX or YYYY or ZZZZ? After that, figure your first name and middle names. Then, fill your visa application with the given name (first name and middle name) and surname.
Note: You must get your name fixed when you renew your passport. Otherwise, you will face problems not only while filling your visa forms but also while traveling (at airports, immigration, etc).
Samiah says
Hi Thirumal,
Samiah here again! Thank you for the swift response. Sigh, so, for the most part, I think I have filled in my biological parents’ names. However, in some instances, I might have filled in my adopted parents’ names. I can’t remember for sure. Which would you advise I use? I don’t want to get a denial, so I am trying to be super careful. Is it also possible that I use my biological parents’ names and just provide evidence of the adoption and hopefully I get to explain the situation if I am granted an interview?
Again, will my application be considered as a fresh one or renewal as I have not been to the US in over 10 years since I was a minor? I look forward to your response again. Thanks a lot.
Thirumal says
Hi Samiah! In that case, I suggest going with your biological parents’ names. Also, carry a copy of your adoption documentation to your interview.
Your application will be considered as a fresh one. Renewals are only when applying within one year of expiry and from the same US consulate.
Adnan AKHTER says
Hi! Hope you are fine! Can you please guide me?
I’m an international student from Pakistan. Back in 2016, I was studying in Australia and I applied for USA visit visa which was approved and validity for the visa was for 6months. So, I couldn’t get a chance to go because of some reasons but now I’m planning to go there and my visa has been expired. So is there any chance I can get it again or not? And currently I’m in Pakistan and I’m holding “Australian Temporary Residency ” which is going to expire next year in June.
So where should I mention in the application that I’m holding Australian TR just to make the ties strong because there is no option in the application regarding it?
Your response will be highly appreciated
Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Adnan! You may be able to secure another US visa, but it depends on many factors such as your ties with your home country, your purpose of travel, your travel history, etc.
There is a field to specify if you hold a permanent residence but there isn’t any for temporary residence. Your only option is to specify Australia and other countries you have traveled for the question “Have you traveled to any countries/regions within the last five years?”, which is available as part of section “10. Work / Education / Training”.
Samiah says
Hello Thirumal, Please I have two questions.
Firstly, say the name on my passport is Azeez-Masha Bilaal but I bear Masha Bilaal on all my other documents. Can I select yes under the “have you ever beared any other name”?
Secondly, I have been to the US several times with my Biological Mother when I was younger, but when I was a teen I was adopted by her sister and husband but my name was never changed. Should I just fill in the names of my biological parents and not my adopted parents to avoid any confusion? Also, I would not mind filling in the names of my adopted parents but there is no box for “other information” to explain my circumstance.
I look forward to your response, thank you.
Thirumal says
Hi Samiah!
1. I would say “yes”. Enter Misha Bilaal as your other name.
2. This depends on whether you use your biological parents or adopted parents when filling forms (school, college, employment, passport, etc). Whoever you use in your forms, use them in your DS-160 as well. The reason for that is US visa officers refer to many databases that are sourced from third parties. If you have been using your biological/adopted parents’ names in your forms (school, college, employment, passport, etc), then that information might have made it into those databases already. If that’s your adopted parents’, then I also suggest producing a document proving that you are adopted by your biological mother’s sister.
Andrew Craig says
Hello
I’m trying to get a C1/D visa, do I have to fill in the DS-160 twice, one for the D and the other for the C1? Or do I just fill in D and ask at the interview?
Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Andrew! You have to fill only one DS-160 form. You can only enter ONE DS-160 confirmation code while scheduling your visa appointment.
Suggestion
Select either “ALIEN IN TRANSIT (C)” or “CREWMEMBER (D)” depending on your actual purpose. You will then be shown further options within “Specify”. See if you can select “C1/D”. If “C1/D” is not available in the options within “Specify”, then select the closest (ex: C1 or D). And then request for C1/D at the interview.
Lily says
Hello all, I completed a DS-160 form but I forgot my application ID. I can not log in it to submit. Do you have any solution to enter it again？Thank you very much！
Thirumal says
Hi Lily! Unfortunately, there is no way to retrieve an Application ID. You have to fill a new DS-160 form.
Note: There are some online articles on searching in Chrome browser cache for application ids. It would take much longer to do this than just filling a new DS-160. If you are interested in giving it a try, check this article.
Mayur Malani says
Hello,
I want to apply for US Business Visa. I have changed my home last year and address in the passport is not yet changed to the current address. My all other documents have the current permanent address.
Will this be a problem for applying for Business Visa?
Thanks,
Mayur
Thirumal says
Hi Mayur! Address in your passport has no bearing on your visa decision (US visa or any other visa). Passports are usually issued for 10 years and consulates do not expect the applicants to be residing in the same address. Changing address on a passport is not an easy procedure and I advise against it.
ALEX says
Hi! If I fill a visa for my friend will they know it was submitted from the US and will that be an issue? She lives in Mexico but wanna submit it for her since I know English and she is on the line with me answering the questions.
Thirumal says
Hi Alex! They may track the IP of the computer for security reasons, but I have never heard any incidents of them using the IP to make a visa decision. Therefore, I would say that it won’t be a problem.
Mani says
Hi Thirumal,
You have been doing an excellent job by helping/ guiding people. Both thumbs up!! I have been invited by a US university for an on-campus interview. I am a non-EU/ UK citizen, currently living in the UK on a Work visa sponsored by a higher education institute.
1. I contacted US embassy in London to know the relevant visa type and I have been asked to apply for a B2 visa for an on-campus interview, which is bit strange though, as this type of visa is intended for Visitor/ Medical purposes. I thought B1 is a more relevant category. What do you say?
2. My trip is being sponsored by the inviting higher education institute and I have got a sponsorship letter for them. I am bit confused about filling the “Travel Information” in DS-160 form. The date of my interview is set as 10 June 2019. Is it OK, if I given the answer “NO” to the question: “Have you made specific travel plans?” I am doing this because if I type yes, then I would have to input flight details, etc which could only be provided if I have bought tickets. I don’t want to purchase tickets unless I get the visa.
3. Regarding “Address where you will stay in the US”, my sponsor institute has given me names of a couple of institutes where they plan to book my accommodation. The situation is tricky because sponsor institute has asked me to purchase tickets (whenever I feel feasible – of course, I will purchase them after the issuance of visa) and then they will book accommodation on the basis of my tickets. They will reimburse all travel cost post interview. Now, I am a bit worried that if I write the name of one hotel without booking accommodation, then the embassy may check about booking. Also, if I don’t buy air tickets at this stage, i.e., prior to the visa interview, then sponsor institute is unable to book accommodation for me. I am afraid I would not have any travel arrangement documents (such as air ticket itinerary and accommodation booking) with me to show to the visa officer if he/ she asks me to show them. What do you suggest? How this situation can be handled?
4. What kind of questions could be asked during a visa interview in this case?
Regards,
Mani
Thirumal says
Hi Mani!
1. I never understood how certain travels are categorized. That is way, I recommend my readers to apply for B1/B2. This takes all the guesswork out. I suggest selecting B1/B2 in your case as well.
2. Select “No. It’s absolutely fine not to make any prior travel arrangements. In fact, the consulates themselves recommend not making any travel arrangements (flights/hotels, etc) until after you receive your visa.
3. There is a slight chance that the consulate may check your booking. But again, they themselves do not recommend booking anything. So, in the worst case, they may ask about your accommodation in the interview. You can tell that you are intending to stay there but you haven’t booked it yet.
4. You will mostly be asked about your purpose (what interview, why, etc), your total number of days, your activities during that time, where you intend to stay, how much you intend to spend, etc. You may also be asked about your employment, financial and travel history.
Robin Martens says
Hi Thirumal!
I have a question about “Personal Information Page 1”. It says all the information on the page has to be the same as on your passport.
For city, province, and country of birth, should I fill out the province even if the province of birth is not listed on my passport?
On the “passport information page” there is also the question where the passport was issued (city, province, country) but there it explicitly says only to fill out the province if it is on the passport. So here I will not add the province as it is not on my passport. However, I am still unsure if I should fill out the province I was born on the “personal information page 1”.
Thank you in advance!
Thirumal says
Hi Robin!
Personal Information Page 1
Yes. It is fine to enter the province of birth even though it’s not in your passport. Other information such as city and country must match with your passport.
Passport Information Page
No. Do not enter the province if it’s not in your passport.
Anonymous says
Hi Thirumal
From where can I get access to the DS-160 application I submitted? Because don’t I have to bring it along with the DS-160 confirmation on the interview?
Thirumal says
Hi Anonymous! You can use the option “Retrieve an Application” to view and print your DS-160. You don’t have to bring your DS-160 form. You only have to bring the DS-160 “confirmation” to your interview.
Anonymous says
Hi Thirumal,
When I was completing my DS-160 form, it asked me if you have any other relatives in US. I clicked yes. Now I am wondering that is it possible that in the interview they ask me to provide info of the relative you have there like bring their passport photocopy or bank statements and all.
thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Anonymous! If you mentioned that you have relatives in the US, you may be asked who they are, where they are, etc., but you will not be asked to show any documentation/proofs.
Anonymous says
Hi Thirumal,
I am still a university student and my father is going to be sponsoring my 2 week trip to the US. What documents would you recommend me to carry with myself to the interview?
thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Anonymous! US visa officers do not ask for any documentation at all. They make the decision based on the information in your DS-160 and interview.
That being said, carry minimal documentation to your interview such as your student proofs, your father’s employment and financial proofs.
Priyank Dhami says
One of the best explanation on the internet for DS-160 form. Good work buddy.
Thirumal says
Hi Priyank! Thanks for the kind words! I struggled to fill DS-160 myself many times. Decided to make a guide so it can be useful to others. I’m glad it was helpful to you. Thanks again!
Anonymous says
Hi Thirumal,
I just submitted my DS-160 form and on the address where I will be staying. I wrote my friends address where I will really be staying. Is it fine? Because I have heard from some people that if you are applying for a B1/B2 visa then you have to show bookings for a hotel and all. Secondly, Do I need to show a ticket as-well? Because I have not booked a ticket since it is super expensive and I do not want to risk it before visa issuance. Would be glad if you could clarify me on these agendas.
Thirumal says
Hi Anonymous! Flight tickets and hotel bookings are NOT REQUIRED for US visa application. No need to book them or no need to provide any proofs.
Explanation: Visa applications such as Schengen, Canada, etc ask for flight reservations (held tickets) and hotel bookings. They recommend not “purchasing” flight tickets but only to “hold” them. Similarly, they recommend booking “refundable” hotels. It is such a waste of money, time and effort.
Consulates and you pretty well know that you will purchase different flight tickets and make different hotel bookings after the visa. Thankfully, the US has completely eliminated this useless step from their visa applications.
Sam says
Hi Thirumal,
In the DS 160 form, for students who are funded by the institution (as a GTA) but not paying for flight charges, what option should I select for “who is paying for your trip” self or organization in the US?
Thirumal says
Hi Sam! My knowledge and experience are in “tourist” visas only. Therefore, I don’t know how student visas and student funding works.
That being said, I will try to answer your question from “tourist” visa point of view. In my opinion, the tuition fee is a lot more than the flight charges. Therefore, the “institution” will be the one “paying for the trip” since they are paying more than the student him/herself.
Woti says
Thanks Thirumal, the photo is uploaded today without error.
Thirumal says
Hi Woti! Good to know. Thanks for the update! Hopefully, it’s fixed for everyone.
marilyn says
Hi, planning to fill up the d160 form for my mother and sister to attend my son’s wedding. My mother had been in the US with a green card a long time ago and had expired and had been living in the Philippines, My question is what should I answer on the question of “Had any petition been filed for you”? Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Marilyn! You have to mention that she had held a green card within certain dates and it’s number. Ex: “I held a US green card valid from April 2006 to March 2016. I-155 number KCF2564918.”
sandy says
I am facing a problem in uploading my photo it appears “Error: There was a missing or invalid parameter in the request”
I tried from many browsers and devices still the same. Is the system down? The problem is that I have an appointment after 5 days what should I do?
Thirumal says
Hi Sandy! If you can see, many readers reported the same this on this weekend. This is a common issue and their tech team fixes it quickly. But if it happens on the weekend, they will fix it on the next working day (Monday). Just wait till Monday morning in the US, the issue should be fixed. Also, let us know when the issue is fixed so all those facing the same issue will be aware.
Sandy says
Thank you Thirumal, the problem has been solved. Thanks for your cooperation and quick reply.
Thirumal says
Hi Sandy! Thanks for the update! Hopefully, it’s fixed for everyone who had this issue on the weekend.
Natalia says
I saw the same question asked before, but still want to ask. While uploading a photo to my DS-160 form, I always get a mistake which says, “there was a missing or invalid parameter in the request”. What should I do in that case?
Thirumal says
Hi Natalia! I have received about 5 comments on the same issue today. Looks like it’s a common issue on their side and they will fix it on the next working day (which is Monday in the US). Just wait till Monday morning in the US and the issue should be fixed. Let us all know when the issue is fixed.
Narmeen says
Dear Thirumal, I am getting the following error every time I try uploading my photo for the DS-160 form:
Error: There was a missing or invalid parameter in the request
Do you have any idea that how much time does this take to get resolved? Am I supposed to report this error somewhere or call some helpline number?
Thank you for your help in advance.
Thirumal says
Hi Narmeen! I have filled DS-160 many times but I have never seen this error myself. A quick Google search reveals that it’s a common error that gets fixed quickly by their tech team. But if this error occurs on a weekend, their tech team only fixes it on the next working day. I received about 5 comments on this particular issue today. That means, it’s happening to everyone and you just have to wait till Monday for them to fix it. When I say Monday, it’s Monday in the US.
Praneet Shah says
Hi Thirumal,
I am in the process of applying DS 160 form and have reached US Point of contact information where I do not know any person in individual or an organization name I am aware of. While I click on “Do Not Know” for Contact Person and Organization name, the checkbox toggles on either of them (depending on which one is selected) and hence the form validation expects me to provide all the required details to be filled where I do not have any information for those fields.
Have checked different browsers but this issue has not yet resolved. Could you advise if “US Point Of Contact” section requires at least “Contact Person” or “Organization name” either to be filled?
Or is this a bug?
Thanks,
Praneet
Thirumal says
Hi Praneet! It’s not a bug. I have already mentioned in the article that you must enter “at least” one of them. Otherwise, you cannot go to the next step.
US contact depends on your purpose. If you are going for tourism, then you can enter your hotel address and phone. You can book a “refundable” hotel and enter its details.
If you are going for tourism but will be meeting a friend/family member, then you can enter their details as your US contact.
If you are going for business, then you can enter your client, conference organizer, etc as your US contact.
tugce says
Hi, Firstly, thank you!
US visa page still has ” Error: There was a missing or invalid parameter. ” for the photo:(
Will it be fixed today? Cause you have written next Monday for this server-side issue.
Thirumal says
Hi Tugce! I have never seen that error myself. But a quick Google search revealed that applicants have reported this issue as a server-side issue and usually was fixed on the next working day. So, try on Monday in the US. Also, let us all know if the issue gets fixed so our readers will know what to do when they see this error.
Neal says
Hi Thirumal,
I found your walkthrough here extremely helpful! Thanks! But as I was trying to upload my photo, this message about a missing or invalid parameter kept popping up. Any way I can troubleshoot this?
Thirumal says
Hi Neal! That error comes up usually on the weekend when their tech team is not available to resolve it immediately. Try on the next working day and the issue should be resolved.
dadaofsamuelle says
Hi Thirumal,
Good news!
Our visa has been approved yesterday and it will be delivered our passport with Visa Stamp within 2-3 business day.
Thank you so much for your advice and tips that make us prepared for the critical questions based in our circumstances. We confidently answered all the backgrounds and status of our Immediate family in the US to the best of our knowledge.
True that should not hide anything as there is no secrets or tricks to get a US visa. The Consular officer will simply look on your “Honest intention and Personal circumstances” if you are qualified for a visa which you’re applying.
Best Regards,
DadaofSamuelle
Thirumal says
Hi DadaofSamuelle! That’s fantastic. Congratulations!
You’re welcome! I’m glad that my advice has been helpful in securing US visas for you and your family.
Millions of people apply for visas and millions travel every day. If there is a genuine reason to travel, there is nothing to fear. Many make the mistake of hiding information or using an incompetent travel agent. None of these tactics are necessary and can only lead to denials.
Congrats again! Enjoy your family trip!
Tracey says
when I try to upload my photo it brings me to a page that says “Error: There was a missing or invalid parameter in the request” why is this?
Thirumal says
Hi Tracey! It’s an issue on their side and the tech team in the US fixes it quickly when it happens. If it happens on a weekend or holiday, they usually fix it on the next working day in the US. So, try again on a working day.
Woti says
Hi, am I the only one hit “Error: There was a missing or invalid parameter in the request” when uploading photo since 5 May 2019? Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Woti! It’s a server issue and the tech team in the US fixes it quickly. If it happens on a weekend or holiday, they usually fix on the next working day in the US. So, try again on Monday, May 6th in the US.
Intern says
Hi, I’m a student extending my F-1 visa. Should I put in my internship as previous employment or does it not count?
Thirumal says
Hi Intern! Yes. An internship is a form of employment, therefore you should put your internship as your previous employment.
Robin Martens says
Hi Thirumal! Thank you so much for your help with the phone number question.
Just to clarify, a phone number with country code would be 0031 (0)43 2623735, where 0031 is the country code.
Should I leave out the 0031 entirely and just put 043 2623735?
And this goes for all phone numbers? My own, my university’s phone number, my previous employer’s phone number, the US contact phone number (so, without the 001 before it for US numbers)?
Thank you so much for your help! I have found conflicting answers on the internet but with your expertise, I really value your answers.
Best,
Robin
Thirumal says
Hi Robin! Correct! You leave out 0031 and only enter 043 2623735. Also, I don’t know if that “0” is also necessary. If your friends or family have to call you from your country, do they have to dial “043 2623735” or “43 2623735”? If “43 2623735”, then enter “43 2623735”.
Yes, for all phone numbers for your country. And yes, without 001 for all US numbers.
Don’t worry too much about it. If they have to call you, they will reach you on your number. They know how to use those numbers.
Ali says
Dear Thirumal,
Thank you and well noted. However, I indicate two cities (New York and New Jersey) and tourist places. Is that okay or do I need to fill-up form again? Kindly advise.
Thirumal says
Hi Ali! That’s enough. No need to fill a new DS-160 form.
Robin Martens says
Hi! I have a question about the phone numbers you have to fill out in the form. Do I have to put country codes in front of the phone number (e.g. 0031 for the Netherlands)? I tried that but for one of the numbers, it will not allow me to add that many digits. I also tried to replace the 00 with the + but we are not allowed to add other digits than 0-9.
Would it be okay if I leave out the country code?
Thirumal says
Hi Robin! DO NOT put country code in front of your phone number. Your country/region is already specified in the “Address” part, so it’s assumed that the phone number is also from that country/region. Therefore, no need to add the country code (or 00 or +) to your phone number.
Ali says
Dear Thirumal,
When you select ” have you planned…..?” and if you say “yes” then you need to enter the places you want to visit
Thirumal says
Hi Ali! I understand now. Yes, enter the names of the cities you plan to visit.
Experience says
Thirumal,
Even though it is my cousin that is inviting me and I have already filled his details as my relative I am going to stay within the USA. On the DS-160 form where it is asked on the family portion “Do you have any other relatives in the United States?”, do I still say yes or not?
Please I want you to clarify me on this.
Thirumal says
Hi Experience! You will say “Yes”. Your cousin is considered as “other relative”.
Abdul Wahab Rasuli says
Hi Thirumal,
Hope you are fine and everything is going well.
My name is Abdul and I am currently living in the Netherlands. I don’t have a Dutch nationality yet but I have a Dutch residence permit. I applied for a tourist visa to the US. I wanted to go there to my parents who recently moved to the US (4 months ago).
My parents moved to the US through a special immigration visa which I was also included in the case. But as the process took very long and on the time I got married to my wife, I decided to live together with my wife and my father indicated me out of their visa case, in order to complete my parents case process the US Embassy in my origin asked me to an oath and fingerprint interview and to indicate me out of the immigration case. I went back to my origin from the Netherlands and everything went well. Now the consular officer told me that I cannot be in an immigration case and a tourist visa at the same time when I told him this story which I have already written on my DS-160. He responded that yeah I know what you mean but you are not eligible. I told him many reasons but he said not now but you can reapply. I have also mentioned that I gonna travel together with my wife which has Dutch nationality and passport. I have mentioned all these honestly on my application as well but my application got rejected when I went to interview yesterday. And they even did not tell me the exact reason why I have been rejected, 214(b) can contain a lot of reasons but how can I know what was the exact reason for my refusal? Can you give me some tips?
Now I want to know is it possible to reapply? I think I have all the reasons to convince them that I will come back to my residing country.
And as I have short time till my vacation start I wanted to know if it is possible to take the interview in Brussels (Belgium) while my first interview and refusal was in Amsterdam? And will it not raise any question for them that why I changed my interview location?
Is it okay if I apply for the same date and the same reasons for the second time?
Sorry that it is too long but in order to help me you had to know all my story.
I will be looking forward to your response.
Thank you in advance,
Abdul Wahab
Thirumal says
Hi Abdul! I apologize for a delayed response.
First of all, I don’t really know the procedure to remove oneself from a family immigration petition. Second, I don’t know if you have been completely removed from your family immigration petition. You must consult an immigration lawyer on the procedure to remove yourself completely from such an immigration petition. If the procedure was not done properly, it may affect all your future “non-immigrant” visas.
Yes, you can reapply for your tourist visa at any time. And yes, you can apply for your US visa from anywhere in the world. Therefore, you can take your interview in Brussels. It doesn’t have to be in Amsterdam.
You can also stick to your original itinerary and purpose of the trip. But, I strongly advise you to consult an immigration lawyer since your previous immigration petition will again affect your tourist visa application.
Huriah Fazli says
Hello Thirumal,
My husband has unfortunately not received a visa. He was refused. He would very much like to resubmit an application. Can he do this immediately for the same journey and the same reason? We are going on a family visit to his parents (his parents are there now for 4 months, they have already a green card but not a passport).
But when my husband went there to the consulate in Amsterdam for an interview they just asked how long you are here in Holland? He said 1,5 year. Where are you going in America? He said my parents are in Sacramento, going with my wife and she has a Dutch passport. Then the officer told that he can not get a visa. He only received a letter with refused reason 214 (B) also everything else what my husband asked after the letter he was really dry and just answered all the time no, not today, it is not possible to get a visa today.
How likely is he to be accepted now for the same travel and same reason? And what exactly should he do differently? He did not even have the chance to show his papers he got with him.
Other question: If he now submits another request for the same travel date, can he now do his interview in Brussels? The interview date is there earlier. He was refused by the consulate in Amsterdam. He has a passport from Afghanistan and a residence permit from the Netherlands.
My husband works already for more than one year in the Netherlands. He is here since 25 January 2018 we are buying a house. We already have a contract with the bank. We will get the house on 29 of May. His parents and two little brothers live in America since January 2019 and they have a green card. Also, his uncle lives in America for already 3 years.
Thirumal says
Hi Huriah! Sorry to hear that! Yes, he can reapply for his visa anytime. There is no waiting required. He can stick to his original travel dates and purpose of travel. Changing his purpose of travel will raise questions and may make his case even more complicated.
What I understand is that his entire family (parents, brothers, uncle, etc) have immigrated to the US. The visa officer may think that your husband has similar intent and may not return back to the Netherlands as his entire family resides in the US. As a Dutch national, it’s quite easy for you to immigrate as well. All those complexities, if not dealt in a proper way, can affect your husbands “non-immigrant” visa applications. I suggest consulting an immigration attorney as they are qualified and experienced in these matters.
There is nothing differently he can do. All he could do was to be honest, which he had been already in his interview. It’s not about how he did his interview. It’s about the law around family immigration, which I’m not well aware of. And only an immigration attorney can guide you both in the direction.
Yes, he can schedule his interview in Brussels. It is not necessary to schedule his interview in Amsterdam. That being said, your husband holds an Afghanistan passport. There are some travel restricts on some passports. You have to again talk to an immigration lawyer to find what these restrictions are and how they may affect your husband.
yoshy says
Hi, Thanks for your help and support.
I CAN FILL EACH FORM FOR EACH MEMBER SEPARATELY, that means if I did not complete the first one I can start the second because I have to confirm some details.
Thirumal says
Hi Yoshy! Yes, you can.
Jot says
Hi,
I am trying to apply for US Nonimmigrant visa. But the photos I had are not being accepted on the DS-160 form. I had them clicked by a professional from the Walmart store twice. So can I continue without uploading picture or I should wait for them to accept on the website?
I am confused now as I had photos clicked by professionals. What to do?
Thirumal says
Hi Jot! There are no professionals when it comes to photos for visas. It’s your job to make sure they are as per the photo specifications. If they are not, the application will not accept them.
Try to fix the photos you have as per the photo specifications. If you can’t, then you can go ahead without a photo. In that case, you have to carry 2 photos with you to the interview.
yoshy says
Hi, if we apply as a family, can you explain how we fill one form and add the family members details?
Thirumal says
Hi Yoshy! Each member of the family has to fill a separate DS-160. At the last step of your DS-160 (thank you page), you will be asked to create a new DS-160 for each family member. If you follow the instructions that way, some of the data (such as the address in the US, etc) will be copied to the DS-160s of your family members.
You can schedule one appointment for the visa interview for the entire family. Refer to my article on how to schedule US visa appointment.
Niran says
My given name is longer than the character limit, I will be exactly missing one part if I write continuously. May I short two part of my names?
Thirumal says
Hi Niran! It’s a common occurrence and nothing to worry about. Just spell your given name exactly till the character limit and truncate the remaining. DO NOT shorten, remove spaces, etc.
Example: Say, your given name is “Ravishaker Kiran Chandran”. If the given name field accepts only “Ravishaker Kiran Chan”, then just type that way. If it accepts only “Ravishaker Kiran” then just type that way.
Muhammed Roshan says
Hello Thirumal! Thanks for this amazing post. I have the same issue with the given name. My given name is 36 characters long and I was able to enter only up to 33 characters in DS-160. I got my visa yesterday and my surname is truncated to 33 characters as well. I contacted the US embassy and they mentioned that they cannot correct the visa as they have already included the maximum characters.
My question is if I travel to the US with this visa, will it cause any issues in US airports and immigration points? Any suggestions will be highly appreciated.
Thirumal says
Hi Muhammed Roshan! You will NOT have any issues traveling with your US visa. There is a character limit on the names for US visas and all immigration officers are aware of that. Therefore, you will not have any issues at immigration. You may have some issues at the airport while checking in. The airline staff may not be aware of the character limit and may say that your name on the passport is not exactly matching with the name on your US visa. Just tell them that there is a character limit on the names in the US visas and they will understand.
Ali says
Dear Thirumal,
Kindly take into consideration my message as I am going to fill-up DS-160 form. 1. Do I need to enter the cities of United States (location you want to visit) or only places like times square etc. 2. Do i need to mention lump-sum salary including housing, transportation or only the amount which I receive in my bank Account?
Thirumal says
Hi Ali!
(1) Which questions is that? I don’t see any question asking for places you like to visit.
(2) Only the amount you receive in your bank account. You may be asked to show proof of your income and you will show the bank statement in such a case.
Testimony says
Please, can someone provide his income statement which has income salary amount lower than what was filled in the DS 160 form as monthly income? Because being that he usually get additional funds from HR on extra work hour done on weekends most times, it does reflect in the income statement rather the actual salary refects. But he put the salary plus sum average of bonus/extra pay received which increased what was there different from the figure filled as monthly income on DS 160.
Now my question is, is there any harm if the statement would be checked. How best can he defend it?
Thirumal says
Hi Testimony! In such a case, you have to provide documentary evidence of the additional income. If not, then the applicant must enter his/her monthly income as the amount shown in his income statement.
Romi says
Thank you so much for the answers
Just one more question
As your answer to Q3 which is as follows:
“Q3. The contact person will be your niece. Your primary purpose of travel is to meet your niece and sister. Your niece is currently in the US and she will be your contact person.”
So, should I mention my niece’s hostel address or the place of booking address in the contact address as both places in different cities? And it’s not a hotel it’s a type of a small flat which has been booked by my sister.
Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Romi! You should mention your niece’s hostel address where she is currently residing. It should be the address where the consulate can contact her in case of verification.
Emily says
Hi Thirumal!
I’m from the Dominican Republic, living and working in Turkey as a Spanish teacher. I would like to participate in an education conference in the USA. I already received an invitation from the institute that is going to have the conference. They said I should bring the invitation letter to the appointment with the embassy. The point is that I would like to participate in that conference with my boyfriend. He is Turkish. He is working. He also received the invitation from the Institute but, I’m worried because he has no travel history, just once we were together in Ukraine. It will affect to him the fact that he doesn’t have travel history?
Thirumal says
Hi Emily! Travel history is only one parameter. If your boyfriend is strong in other areas such as employment background, financial solvency, strong family and social ties, he should be fine. I have seen many applicants secure US visas successfully with zero travel history.
Romi says
Hi, thank you for sharing your valuable knowledge here.
Want to apply for a US Visa for the first time
Would request if you could answer some questions.
Q1. In the column Address where you will stay:
Now here my sister has booked a place in the US and she is traveling separately from another country
And I from another. I will be staying at the same place in the US with her and my niece so, can I mention the same address which she has booked, the booking is in my sister’s name.
Q2. Persons traveling with you?
Now I will be traveling alone and meeting my sister there the answer should be No right?
Q3.Contact person or Organization in the US.
Now I have my niece who is studying in the US since the past year and lives in a hostel, my sister is visiting her
and we all will be staying together in the place booked by my sister.
So my question is who should be the contact person in the US
The answer should be Do Not Know right.
Q4.Do you have any immediate relatives, not including parents, in the United States?
Given the above scenario. What should be the answer here?
Q5. Now I am presently an artist. 12 years back was employed for a year but now not even remotely related to that field now and don’t even know if the place where I worked still exists or whether they have shifted. What should be the answer here? Should this be mentioned in previously employed?
Q6. The income includes the average income from all sources right?
Thirumal says
Hi Romi!
Q1. Yes, you can mention the same hotel address that your sister has booked. If you can, ask your sister to add your name on the booking as well. That way, in case the US consulate calls to inquire, the staff there can respond with your name and booking details.
Q2. Correct. Your answer will be “No”.
Q3. The contact person will be your niece. Your primary purpose of travel is to meet your niece and sister. Your niece is currently in the US and she will be your contact person.
Q4. “No” for immediate relatives but “Yes” for other relatives (your niece).
Q5. Work history for the last 10 years is the most important. Beyond that, it’s not that relevant. If you don’t remember your previous employment, don’t enter it.
Q6. Correct. Income from all sources.
Av says
Hello!
Can you advise, please?
I have tried to fill the DS-160 form online, the website keeps asking for codes all the time, I keep trying to save my pages as I go along. I thought I had completed the form and so arranged an appointment at the embassy.
I find out from a friend after chatting that I haven’t completed the form.
I have tried to retrieve my form to edit but I cant.
I can’t print out the form or submit a photo
I think I got up to education section and I thought it had saved the info but I don’t think it has.
I canceled the appointment date at the embassy, I can’t edit my form, speak to anyone to help me to resolve the problem.
what should I do?
should I start new DS-160? will I have to pay the fee again?
Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Av! DS-160 has a very short session time, so it will time-out if you take too long filling a particular section. If it had been over 30 days, your old DS-160 might have been deleted. But there is nothing to worry. Just fill a new DS-160. Make sure you complete all the way to the photo and submit the form. You must see a confirmation screen with a barcode. Print the confirmation as you will need this for your interview.
After you submit your DS-160, you can go ahead and schedule your visa appointment. You don’t have to pay the fee again. You can use the fee receipt number that you already paid.
Hanna says
Does anyone knows how to fix “Error: There was a missing or invalid parameter in the request” when trying to upload a photo?
Thirumal says
Hi Hanna! I have never seen this error myself but a quick Google search reveals that it’s a server-side error. The tech support team in the US usually fix this issue right away but if it’s a weekend, they will fix it on the following Monday in the US.
Sara S says
I have the same issue
Thirumal says
Hi Sara! It usually happens only on the weekend as their tech team will not be available to fix the issue immediately. Try on Monday and the issue should be resolved.
NP says
Hi Thirumal,
If I am applying for a B1 / B2 tourist visa from London as an Indian citizen, do I need to change my mailing address to be the one in London?
Is this where they will post the passports if the visa is given? Where do I put in this information as I don’t want them to send the passports elsewhere? Is this information requested when booking the interview?
Many thanks in advance.
Thirumal says
Hi NP! If you don’t live in the UK, you can use the mailing address from your home country. This mailing address is only for the US Department of State for their records.
You will specify your passport delivery address while scheduling your US visa appointment. You will have the option to either pick it up or have it delivered to an address. I have a detailed step-by-step guide on how to schedule US visa appointment. Check it out for passport delivery information.
Ali Murtaza says
Dear Thirumal,
I am going to fill DS-160 for B1/B2. In recent 5 years, I was issued 3 Schengen visas (Spain, France, Italy) but due to circumstances, I could not travel. Anyhow, I have traveled these countries five years back. Now my question is, Can I enter these countries in the list of “Countries traveled in last 5 years” Your feedback will be highly appreciated.
Regards,
Ali
Thirumal says
Hi Ali! Unfortunately, you can only enter those countries that you have traveled in the last 5 years. Usually, the visa officers will quickly flip through your passport at the beginning of the interview. They will notice all the visas you have in your passport. If you had those visas in your old passport, carry that with you as well. Hand over both your old and new passports to the VO.
icarus says
Sure, anyone needing help on group appointment (>10 people) process, do let me know, happy to help.
The second group is scheduled in May, 14 people, same profile, hope they too sail through.
I can say definitely say, don’t pay any agent for filling DS-160 forms, it’s very easy and logically structured.
Thirumal says
Thanks, Icarus! I will let you know when I get any group queries. They are not that often but they do come in once a while.
dadaofsamuelle says
Hi Thirumal,
In preparation to interview with regarding “US Point of Contact Information” technically we put the hotel which we will be going to stay for our 1st 3 days trip to Disneyland Anaheim. My Wife disclosed in the DS-160 that she has her brother currently there a US Citizen status (My Wife’s Sibling) and we’re planning to meet him with his family on the last 5 days of our trip.
Our doubt is maybe this will be questionable in our application since that she has an immediate relative there and why didn’t put his details as our US Point of Contact instead we put “Do not know” and following with Hotel name, Address and Phone number.
Mainly, the purpose of our trip is tourism, visiting the Disneyland and pleasure vacation for 12 days on coming school break. Meeting with my brother in law is only part of our itinerary and we have no plans to stay in their house. Every time we’re traveling internationally we’ve been doing our “self touring itinerary and staying in the hotel” is more convenient for us.
Based on our experience we notice that DS-160 form is totally different, unique and sensitive compared to other countries Visa application forms. Please advised as we already submitted our DS-160 and scheduled our interview by next week and maybe on this part will ask in a different way of questions during the interview.
Thanks again for your time.
DadaofSamuelle
Thirumal says
Hi DadaofSamuelle! If the primary purpose of your travel is to meet your brother-in-law, then you must enter his details as your US point of contact. But your primary purpose is to have a vacation in the US, hotel details are appropriate in your case.
Yes, DS-160 is very important as most of the decision is made based on it. But you are an experienced traveler and I’m sure you have taken at most care filling your DS-160. Do your interview and everything will go fine. Goodluck!
mohammad says
Hi, I have a few questions –
1) I am currently not employed, what should I write under the employment section and the details that follow?
2) After I graduated med school, I did a year which is like an internship but it was not required for me to get my diploma, and I was handed a lot of responsibility during it and also received a salary for it. Does this count as previous employment? should I write it down?
3) One of my travelling purposes is to do an internship at Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago and I have a letter that supports that. It was through an organization called American Clinical Rotation. Should I write that down and my contact in the US? Even though I have relatives there?
4) Also, my stay address is determined, but no flight tickets yet to be booked. Should I write that down too?
thanks in advance
Thirumal says
Hi Mohammad!
1) Ideally, “MEDICAL/HEALTH” is the best option for you as the VO can right away understand that you are a medical professional (doc, nurse, physical therapy, etc). Since you are unemployed currently, you can select either “NOT EMPLOYED” or “OTHER”. An “Explain” box will appear and you can explain in that box why you are currently unemployed.
2) Yes. It does count as your previous employment. Make sure you enter that info as in your previous employment.
3) You should use the contact from the American Clinical Rotation. If the consulate calls them, they can vouch for you and provide the necessary details of your internship.
4) Select “No” for “Have you made specific travel plans”. Enter “Intended Date of Arrival” and “Length of stay”. For “Address Where You Will Stay in the U.S.”, enter your stay address.
icarus says
Ok, but will they check sponsor’s docs like his financials, etc? Like how they will know that the sponsor is capable of paying for his trip.
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! If it’s a non-US sponsor, the VOs will not consider the sponsor as a reliable source of financial support for the applicant. The applicant has to still prove that he/she is capable to fund the travel on their own.
Sankalp says
1) Before I started working as a physics faculty in a private coaching institute, I was a private tutor teaching at home for about a year. Should I add this in my previous employment because I have mentioned it on my CV. If yes, then what should I enter in the supervisor’s name and surname because I was the one who was governing everything then. Should I write ‘self-employed’ ?
2) My CV is very long content-wise. Now, in DS-160, there is one column that “briefly describe your duties”. Should I simply paste all my details from CV to this place in DS-160? or should I shorten it ? Because in case at the VISA interview, if VISA officer asks for my CV to match the details that I am going to write on DS160, it should match. If I shorten it, then it will not match.
Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Sankalp!
1) Write your private tutoring experience as “self-employed”.
2) As far as I know, you can’t copy paste anything into DS-160. If you can type the entire duties, then go for it. If not, just grab the main duties and enter those.
Note: This is not relevant to visas but I suggest to shorten your CV to 1-2 pages. Longer CVs are out of fashion now and most recruiters only pay attention to the first 1-2 pages.
Sankalp says
I am filling up DS-160 now. I have received a fully funded Ph.D. offer in Physics. Currently, I am working as a Physics faculty in a private coaching institute in India. What should be my private occupation?
Education, natural science or physical sciences? I am confused among these three? Which one should be the right choice for primary occupation?
Requested to help.
Thirumal says
Hi Sankalp! Either “Education” or “Physical Sciences” will work fine. I have selected different options on different occasions and it was fine. It all depends on how you interpret your current occupation. But in my opinion, “Education” makes more sense in your case as you are currently “teaching”.
icarus says
Very happy to inform that our group successfully obtained a visa. Thanks to this forum for guidance. There were 11 people who are part of the group going to the USA for a pooja ceremony. All of them cleared the interview. There were some hiccups like a lady forgot to carry revised ds 160 form and instead produced old ds 160. the staff at biometrics asked to print the correct bar code form within the next 5 minutes. Panick attack :0, Fortunately, the group leader was carrying another set of everyone’s DS-160 so in time produced the new one. There was a lady with her 16 year old kid in the group, she was surprisingly asked to bring her husband to interview (he did not apply)-very lucky that her case was not rejected outright.
She went with her husband and both the kid and she got issued visa today luckily. Moral of the story if your background is correct and the same has been accurately captured in DS-160, getting a visa should be easy (No financials, no educational docs were checked). It would be interesting to know the databases US embassy has access to.
However, there is no provision to keep mobile or luggage / big bags at both ofc and embassy. Therefore advisable to bring someone with you to keep with them.
I checked the online status today and it was updated as the visa has been issued for all. Though it would have been helpful to know the sanctioned duration of visa which I guess can be known only when the passport is received.
Looking back, now it seems getting a b1/b2 visa is a piece of cake, especially if you are above a certain age (the group was 50+).
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! That’s great to hear! Congratulations! I and all other readers are here to help. Feel free to chime in and help other readers (especially groups) that have questions.
There is no documentary evidence that these databases exist. But there are quite a few articles and forums online where the visa officers (mostly retired) themselves mentioned about these databases quite often.
Visa validity depends on the passport. Indian passport holders are issued 10-year US visas.
Correct! Along with age, marital status seems to play a major role as well. In my experience, mostly young single applicants are scrutinized a lot. Congratulations again! You have done a great job!
icarus says
Hi there, is there a particular format of a letter from the Indian (resident) sponsor (who is paying for the trip and stay) to be addressed to US embassy? There is a form I-134, which I guess is to be filled by US resident person sponsoring the trip.
Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! I-134 is for US sponsor. There isn’t a particular format for an Indian sponsor. I doubt the visa officers ask for sponsor letters, but you can have the sponsor write the letter in any format.
John says
Hello, every time I try to upload a photo it says “Error: There was a missing or invalid parameter in the request” even though it is under 240 mb and under 600mp
Thirumal says
Hi John! I have not seen such issues with photo upload. But a quick Google search shows that the issue comes up once in a while. It’s a server issue and their tech team fixes it quickly. If it happens on a weekend or holiday, they usually fix on the next working day. So, try again and let me know how it goes.
Meg says
Hi
I am applying for an F1 Visa from India, and my DS160 is complete. My Visa Interview is confirmed for 13th and 14th May 2019. Since we start the Fall session in August 2018, I have still not figured out my stay in terms of location. I am hoping to close this after the Visa Approval.
1. In the DS160, I have mentioned the School address itself (Where I would be staying), would that lead to any issues?
2. I visited the US back in 2016 and stayed at my friend’s place, although I have not included them in my US Contacts in the DS-160 now (even though they are still there) for my F1 Visa. Would this be a problem now?
Please help!
Thank you!
Meg
Thirumal says
Hi Meg! My experience and knowledge are only in “tourist” visas. I don’t know much about student visas. But I will try to answer your questions with the limited knowledge I have in student visas.
1. If your school provides you with accommodation for a few days initially, then you must mention the school address. If not, mention the address where you will be staying till you find accommodation on or off campus.
2. You must use your school as your US contact. It’s fine to not mention your friends as your US contacts.
Eliza says
My visa was rejected. I would like to reapply, how long do you advise before I reapply? I want to reapply from Malaysia, my visa is under domestic helper (even though my real job is not that). It was chosen by the company as the employment pass is difficult to attain. Could I do that?
Thirumal says
Hi Eliza! You can apply for a US visa whenever. There are no time limits or waiting required.
If your Malaysia work permit indicates something other than your actual work, it may pose a problem to the US visa and also to your work situation in Malaysia. If the US visa officers figure that out, they may notify the appropriate Malaysian authorities. In such a case, your employer may face legal action for visa fraud.
Naresh kumar says
Hi Thirumal, I am applying for an F1 visa to pursue my MS studies in the USA. I have also received my I20 form. My course is of two years duration as mentioned in my I20 with specific start and end dates. As per rule students pursuing STEM courses can undergo 1 year opt training which can further be extended for another two years, which makes it a 5-year programme. So can I mention 5 years in Duration of Stay in DS-160 even if I20 is not specific?
I have mentioned my school to be in the USA as my contact person, school’s phone and email addresses, etc. Is that ok since I know no one else in the USA.
And most important query- I passed my B. Tech in October 2018 and my classes in US university start from August 2019. In the intervening period, I have been preparing and applying for MS admission in the US. I am not employed and depending on my parents. In DS-160 under present employment/education, what should I correctly fill?
Thirumal says
Hi Naresh! My experience and knowledge are only in tourist (B1/B2) visas. I don’t know much about the student (F1) visas. That being said, I will try to answer your questions based on my limited knowledge in student visas.
You must only mention the period specified in your I20. Your student visa will not be issued straight away for 5 years. Therefore, it’s wise to mention the period mentioned in your I20.
Yes, of course, your school will be your US contact person/organization.
Ideally, selecting “STUDENT”, “ENGINEERING” or “COMPUTER SCIENCE” is better. But in your case, you can select “OTHER” and explain that you have been preparing for your US admissions. Don’t worry, selecting “OTHER” is not negative. It means that the provided options are not relevant to you.
Eliza says
Hi Thirumal, which currency salary I should enter if I apply from home country – Philippines but work in Malaysia?
Thirumal says
Hi Eliza! If you are working and has a status (work visa, residency, etc) in Malaysia, you should apply for your US visa from Malaysia. Otherwise, you will complicate your visa application. Similar to currency, there may be other questions that can be confusing to your and to visa officers as well.
Melly says
My DS-160 keeps rejecting my passport number at the end. I checked it a thousand times. During the application, there was a question about the passport book number which we don’t have in my country and I selected do not apply. There are no other places where I wrote down the passport number except at the end but it keeps saying “the passport number entered does not match the passport number that you previously entered” do you know what is the problem?
Thirumal says
Hi Melly! If your passport number you have entered in “04. Passport” section does not match with the one you just entered in “14. Sign and Submit”, then the application will show that message. Go back into your application and check your “04. Passport” section if you entered the correct passport number.
The “passport book number” is not relevant and you can select “do not apply”. Passport book number will not cause this issue. Just check your “04. Passport” section to make sure you entered the correct passport number.
Rianna says
Hi! I find your site useful. Had a quick question. I had filled out the DS-160 form for my mother and sister. My sister just got a job and my mother is a homemaker.
In the DS-160 form for the question “who is sponsoring your trip” I mentioned my name. I’m on L2 B dependent visa of my husband. I was working previously but now I’m on an active job hunt.
During the visa interview, what should my mother and sister mention as to who is sponsoring their trip? Can they mention my husband’s name in this case even though my name was filled in the DS-160?
Please let me know.
Thirumal says
Hi Rianna! They can mention your husband as their sponsor, but that would complicate things. Your entries in DS-160 and answers in the interview much match. If not, the visa officers might become suspicious and this can lead to many other questions for which your mom/sis may or may not have answers.
Rianna says
Thank you! But this is a genuine case. I’m currently looking for a job and hence I won’t have any documents to show sponsorship for them. Also, what kind of questions could they ask in this matter?
Thirumal says
I understand. The questions would be specific to the applicant’s situation. Some of them can be as below –
– Why do you want to go to the US?
– What will you do in the US?
– What is your daughter’s status in the US? (L2 Dependent)
– How did your daughter go to the US? (her husband was transferred to the US branch of xyz company, etc)
– What does your son-in-law do?
– How did your son-in-law go to the US? (transfer to the US branch, etc)
Icarus says
If I cancel my appointment and book another appointment slot, will the DS-160 form remains valid or again have to fill new DS-160?
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! Your DS-160 will remain valid even if you cancel and reschedule your visa appointment.
Nke says
Thanks again.
As a follow up to your response that it doesn’t matter when I travel, as long as it is still within the Visa validity period. If that is the case, I want to know if the duration of my stay filled out in my DS-160 form still applies if I will be traveling much later than stated in the form. For example, if I applied to travel in June for 28 days but eventually travelled in August or September, I’m I expected to stay for just those 28 days? Or can I stay for any duration of less than 6 months?
God bless you.
Thirumal says
Hi Nke! You can stay for any duration of less than 6 months.
Natalie says
Hi Thirumal,
First, I would like to say thank you for your useful information here.
I have some confused questions about filling DS-160.
1. I am currently student in Canada so in “home address”, should I fill my address in Canada or my home country address?
2. I have been refused US student visa 2 times in 2017 in my home country but I do not know the reason why I was refused. Therefore, in this case, can you please give me an advice to explain in that blank?
3. My mother’s sister has filed petition immigrant for my mother as family immigrant and also including me. But now I am under above 21 years old and in my knowledge that I am not qualified to follow my family in that petition. So in this case, should I choose “Yes” and how can I explain in this situation?
I am looking forward to your response.
Thank you so much.
Thirumal says
Hi Natalie!
1. You should fill your home address in Canada since you live in Canada now.
2. You don’t need to provide the reason for the refusal. You just have to provide which visa, when and the result. For example: “I have been refused F1 visa twice. First time in month, 2017 and the second time in month, 2017”.
3. Yes. The question is “has anyone EVER filed an immigrant petition”, therefore you must select “Yes” and provide the details. For example: “My aunt (my mother’s sister) has filed an immigrant petition for my mother and me in month, year. The case is still pending.”.
Note: The US Department of State may have your previous F1 visa attempts and the immigrant petition by your aunt in their records already. Therefore, it’s not the details that are important. What’s important is mentioning about them in your DS-160. Holding off or hiding information can have serious consequences.
Candice says
Thank you Thirumal for the answer! I was wondering if you knew the contact number for them (is it the same as national visa center helpline number by chance?). I try to fill the DS-160 application and it keeps coming up as session time out even though I’m quick to fill in the details so I wanted to call them to see if there is something wrong with the server.
Thirumal says
Hi Candice! Unfortunately, I don’t. It does timeout more often than you expect. Try the visa center helpline number first to see if they can help.
Nke says
Thanks a great deal for your prompt response to my earlier post.
Do well to help out with these ones too. Thanks.
1. I don’t have a NIM (National Identification No., so cannot supply one as requested in the DS-160 form. In your opinion, do you think it might have a negative impact? Do you suggest I wait to get one before continuing?
2. Can you give an idea of the amount that can be considered okay as a monthly income for someone who is paying for one’s self? Do you suppose an equivalent of 700-800 dollars can suffice for a monthly salary/income?
3. Applying for a B2 with the ‘single’ status, does it have any unfavorable implications for a lady?
4. If for some reasons one is unable to travel on the stipulated date on the application, can one still travel after a month without going through any other rigorous process?
Thanks again for your patience in answering these questions.
Thirumal says
Hi Nke!
1. The less you select “Do Not Apply”, the better it is. Otherwise, it appears to the visa officer that you are holding off information for some obvious reason. I suggest getting your NIM and using it in your DS-160.
2. It depends on your itinerary. For example, if you are going to the US for 7 days, a $200 USD budget per day is good enough. That means, your total expenses in the US would be about $1,400 USD. This total amount must be equal to 1 or 2 months salary and not more. If more, it doesn’t look realistic and visa officers would assume that you would involve in remuneration activities while in the US. $700-800 USD monthly income is good enough for a 7-10 day itinerary.
3. No. But you have to show strong ties to your country and an obligation to return back after your US trip.
4. Not an issue at all. You can travel to the US anytime during the validity of your US visa. For example, if you were issued a 10 year visa then you can hold off your travel till the 10th year. You can still enter the US during the 10th year. You will not be asked why you haven’t traveled to the US for 9 years.
Ali Mansoor says
Hello!
In the “Monthly Income In Local Currency (if employed)” field, students are supposed to check the “Does Not Apply” checkbox.
However, my situation is different, as I receive a monthly stipend (a fixed value, which is given to all students who keep their grades above a specific GPA). Am I supposed to include this monthly stipend in the monthly income field, or check the “Does Not Apply” checkbox?
Thirumal says
Hi Ali! A stipend is a taxable “income”. If you are supposed to pay taxes on your income, then yes, it is considered as a monthly income and you have to mention that in your DS-160. But on the other hand, what you are receiving is a “scholarship”, then it’s a “non-taxable” income. Therefore, depending on your tax situation, enter the “monthly income” or check “Does Not Apply”.
Candice says
Hi Thirumal,
Thank you for all the advice you are providing. I am currently applying for J1 visa so filling up DS-160 form. On the DS-160 form, it asks about previous refusals, prior to getting my current B1/B2 (issued in 2012) which is valid for 10 years, I had gotten a rejection (2011). In that question about refusals, or withdrawn at port of entry (question no.3) what do I say?
Next question: Question 2d – asks if applying from same location as previous visa (yes for me) but it also asks if it is the principal place of residence (no for me). what to answer here?
Thank you so much. I look forward to your reply.
Thirumal says
Hi Candice! Yes, you have to mention your 2011 visa rejection for question no. 3. It won’t affect your current J1 visa result. This is only for the records. You should not hold off any information as it can be used against you as “lying”. So, provide all the information you know.
Question 2d is a question on both “previous visa location” and “place of residence”. If one of them is “no”, then it would be a “no” for the entire question.
Margaret says
Hi, the question about ‘HAVE YOU ATTENDED ANY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AT A SECONDARY LEVEL OR ABOVE” IS ABSENT. WHAT DO I DO? You answered some people that if you’re a female, it is mostly absent. But I had a female friend who saw that question but I did not see it too. She is from my country in Africa. What will happen if I do not see that field?
Also, who is a US legal permanent resident and a US citizen?
Thirumal says
Hi Margaret! As far as I know, those sections are only required from female applicants of certain countries. Can you compare the below parameters between you and your friend and let me know if they are the same?
– Country of birth
– Country of passport
– Country of residence
– Age
– Work in the military?
A US legal permanent resident is someone who holds a “US greencard”, whereas a US citizen is someone who holds a “US passport”.
Saira says
What to do next? Can you help me with this? 3 times rejected.
I gave an interview in September 2018 for F2 dependent. My F1 was in Community College In the same state at that time. It got rejected. VO asked why did he transfer to community college? I gave answers then she gave me the yellow paper with 1) intend to be a student in USA 2) have insufficient funds to cover studies
After 2 weeks, I tried again. Then vo asked all normal questions and still gave white paper stating everybody is immigrant unless they satisfy counselor 214(b).
Then I took a gap of 6 months and my husband went to the same University back. Then booked interview again. This time vo asked when did you marry? Do you have children? And gave yellow paper again stating the same 1) and 2) reasons above.
Vo also said: I am not eligible for the visa this time.
Our situation has changed still they didn’t approve it. He was there to complete his core subjects and back now. What should be my next time?
Thirumal says
Hi Saira! Unfortunately, I don’t know much about “dependent” visas. My experience and knowledge are only in “tourist” visas. That being said, I will attempt to answer your question based on my knowledge in tourist visas.
First Attempt: Your husband transferring to a community college indicates that he couldn’t afford the tuition fee at the university. There may be other reason for the transfer, but that’s what the visa officers would assume. Therefore, he was not in a position to pay or take care of a dependent.
Second Attempt: If your husband was still in the community college, he was still not in a position to pay or take care of a dependent financially. Repeated visa attempts indicate that you have a “different” intent than staying as a dependent in the US.
Third Attempt: Your situation hasn’t changed much other than your husband transferred back to the university. Through he was now able to afford to pay for a dependent, the VO may not be convinced if he would remain in the university or transfer back to the community college.
Next Attempt: I suggest waiting until your husband finishes his studies. Then try for a different visa. Trying for F2 dependent visa may not work for you as your husband’s decision to move between university and community college has created issues in the past.
Hakunamatata says
Hey Thirumal,
If I am working currently as an apprentice, should I select others and mention my position? And I am not paid at the moment so for the salary question, do I need to click on does not apply?
Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Hakunamatata! Yes, you can select “OTHER” for “Primary Occupation” and explain about your apprenticeship. Yes, check “do not apply”.
Huriah says
Hi, I have a question regarding my husbands Visa application. He already fixed an appointment on the 1st of May. But we would like to go to Amerika in the first week of June. Do you think that we will have the visa on time? How long is the time between the appointment and getting te visa? He has an appointment with the Dutch Consulate in Amsterdam.
He has an Afghan passport and a Dutch Resident permit type 1. Because we want to buy the tickets. But When we will not get the visa on time we will lose all our money.
I hope you can give is answer. Regards
Thirumal says
Hi Huriah! You will be told your US visa result at the end of the interview. If you were approved, you can pick up or receive your passport in 5-7 working days. If you were denied, your passport will be returned to you at the end of the interview.
Nke says
You are doing a very beautiful job here. More wisdom and grace to you.
Please kindly advise on the following:
1. Is it compulsory to have a letter of invitation for a B2 Visa?
2. Is it advisable for a mature “single” lady who is paying for herself, to use a male American friend as a contact person or a hotel address?
3. Can the hotel booking be for just a day or two?
4. Must she go with a Bank statement to the interview?
Thanks in advance for your prompt response.
Thirumal says
Hi Nke!
1. No. Invitation letters do nothing for US visas. You won’t be able to upload them in your DS-160 and you will not be asked during your interview either.
2. I suggest using your hotel address
3. It has to be longer. The US consulate may contact the hotel to see if you have a booking with them. There are many hotels that are “completely refundable”. Just book one of those and you will be fine.
4. Yeah, carry a copy of your employment and financial proofs (including bank statement) to the interview.
Icarus says
No no, not the entire group. I mean within the group, some members. You see a couple of them are 65-70 years old and belong to an era when there was a matric system in education and they don’t remember the school details let the alone date of attendance.
Secondly, there is a lady in the group, 48 years, single, who has IT background, MSC Physics, was employed with IGATE long time back, not employed currently, has two flats in her name, monthly income limited to rentals. She has savings in the bank.
Will she be considered as potential immigration risk?
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! Firstly, applicants over retirement age will not be scrutinized that much. Those applicants in your group over 65-70 age should be fine without mentioning all of their education details.
Secondly, the applicant you mentioned has weak ties to her country and has no strong obligation to return back to her country. She obviously has fewer chances of visa approval.
PHILIPS says
Hi, I hope you understand my problem and reply to me.
I am applying for an F1 visa. My high school was completed in 2014. I was working from 2015 to 2018 and now I am working in some MNC Company from Nov 2018 to Present. I am filling my DS-160 as a private employe in some company.
Is there any problem with my visa interview that I have been working for a private company? I am applying for an F1 student visa to continue my pastoral education because I need to become a pastor for my church. Before that, I need to learn so I applied for bible college in Florida and I got I-20. Now I applied for us visa interview. Can you please answer me that? Is there any problem for my Student visa interview that I was working in some company ?
Thirumal says
Hi Philips! It’s absolutely fine to work and then pursue further studies. It won’t be a problem for your F1 visa interview.
Charu says
Hi Thirumal,
I have a question about the ‘Present Employer’ section. I have been offered a job by a US company, and my H1b petition has been approved w.e.f 01-April-2019. Currently, I am in India and not working since September 2018. While filling DS160, I initially thought to fill ‘Present Employer’ as ‘NOT EMPLOYED’ (since I haven’t started with the new organization). But, the lawyers for the organization advised me to fill the US company details into ‘Present Employer’, with a start date of 01-April-2019 (the validity start date). Can you advise what would be the right information to fill?
Thirumal says
Hi Charu! My experience and advice are mostly on travel visas. I don’t know too much about work visas. I suggest doing what the immigration lawyers say.
Note: When I applied for my H1B visa back in the day, I was still working for my employer in India. I filled the employer that I was working in India as my “present employer”.
Zahra malik says
Hello! Can we attach documents like affidavit of support, bank statement and invitation letter with DS-160 form or can we fax document to the embassy?
Thirumal says
Hi Zahra! No, you CANNOT attach any documents to your DS-160. You CANNOT fax documents to the embassy either. If you have any documentation, carry them with you to the interview.
icarus says
Have you personally come across any cases wherein B2 visa was kept on hold/rejected due to incomplete DS-160 (like in my group case)?
Actually, I am really worried (10th /12th details not filled, only graduation mentioned for everyone), now that the form has been filled and group appointment confirmed, it shouldn’t happen that entire group is denied visa on this reason? Will carrying a resume detailing education history will help? Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! The visa officers will not tell the “exact” reason for visa refusal. Therefore, even if someone’s visa was denied due to insufficient information, we will never know if that was the reason.
Even in a group, each applicant will be issued a visa on individual merit. The entire group will not be denied a visa just because a few are missing their education details. I have seen quite a few cases where a few members of the group were granted the visa and a few were not.
Uttam says
Sir, thanks for providing very useful information, really good work!
I am planning to visit the US for tourism purpose with my wife (46yrs) and son (21yrs)(Student). We had been to Singapore, Malaysia, and Dubai during the last three years as tourists. We self study and plan holidays accordingly. At present we don’t have any immediate plan to visit the US. However, it may happen within a period of one year. Regarding visa especially form DS-160 I have the following doubts. I will be thankful for the clarification of the queries.
1) I am a Govt officer for the last 25 years, shall I need my department’s NOC for applying for the visa. I mean, is it mandatory (as it takes a long time to get it as per govt procedure)?
2) I have not planned anything now. Hence what shall I write in the column reg my US stay ie hotel and its address etc.?
3) I have sufficient funds in the form of FDs and saving accounts and I own my house. But my wife and son don’t have sizable funds in their account. Of course, all the expenses shall be born by me only.
4) I will be the principal traveler, my wife and son will be traveling with me hence shall I apply as a group or what? ( I am confused here)
5) Whether we all three will be allowed together for the interview at once?
Thanks a lot
With Regards
Uttam
Thirumal says
Hi Uttam!
1. Documents are not necessary for US visa. You can carry minimal documentation such as your Id card, a copy of your bank statement, etc. But, a NOC document is completely unnecessary.
2. At the interview, you will be asked about your dates, places and the activities in the US. Therefore, you must have an itinerary in mind. You can change it after your visa but at least for the interview, you must be prepared with an itinerary. Based on your itinerary, book a “refundable” hotel in the first location. Use that hotel’s address in your DS-160. That way, if the US visa officers contact the hotel, the hotel staff can respond with your booking details. You can cancel that hotel booking after your visa is issued.
3. That’s fine.
4. Yes. But first, you must fill three DS-160 forms. One for you, one for your wife and one for your son. After that, you can schedule ONE visa appointment for all three as a family. Check my article on how to schedule US visa appointment for more information.
5. Yes. All three of you will go for the interview together. You all will be interviewed at the same time by one visa officer.
icarus says
In your experience, have you come across any instance wherein visa was rejected just due to incomplete (not incorrect) information provided? In such cases does visa officer inform this reason (namely incomplete form) to the applicant?
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! There is no such thing as “incomplete information” in the US visa application. There is only “insufficient information”. Insufficient information means a “weak case” leading to visa denial.
NP says
Hi Thirumal,
Thank you for your swift responses.
You mentioned that – Sponsorships and documentation will not help in the US visa application. What helps are (1) strong ties to their home country and (2) the obligation to return back to their home countries after the trip.
How does one prove the two points above on an application form? Or were you suggesting that they need to mention this in their interview?
Any tips on how to prove the points would be extremely useful.
Thank you
Thirumal says
Hi NP! DS-160 asks a number of questions related to employment, education, travel history, purpose of travel, previous US visits, family details, etc. This is to figure if the applicant has strong ties with their home country. The applicant will also be asked a bunch of questions during the interview to determine the ties, purpose of travel and intention to return back.
Additionally, the US maintains a number of databases that contain applicant’s information sourced from third-parties. The visa officers use these databases to match certain information to see if the applicant has strong ties to their countries.
As applicants, all we can do is to fill the DS-160 to the best of our knowledge. Answer the visa officers with short, direct and honest answers during the interview.
mavd says
I am a holder of Philippines passport and my husband and our daughters are both EU citizen. We are living as permanent residents in Suriname. I don’t work as I am a full-time housewife. So it’s my husband who will sponsor me for my US visa application. What are the documents he needs to provide to the embassy? And I want to change the date of the intended arrival in DS-160 because I made the application last year and haven’t scheduled an interview yet. Can I change it even if it’s finalized? or should I just start over again?
Thirumal says
Hi Mavd! US consulates and visa officers do not ask for any documentation. But you can carry minimal documentation to your interview such as your husband’s employment and financial documents.
If you have already submitted your DS-160, you cannot edit it. You have to start a new DS-160.
NP says
Hi Thirumal,
First of all, I would like to say thank you for taking the time and effort for such a comprehensive walk-through of how to fill this application form. It has been extremely useful and will save me a significant amount of time which I truly appreciate.
I have some questions regarding filling the application, as my application presents a somewhat unique situation.
I am completing this application on behalf of my aunt & uncle (Indian passport holders), who are currently visiting the UK on a visitor visa. They have a very close childhood friend living in the US who has insisted that they come to the US for a few months since they are not too far and that he will sponsor them. I had a few questions on this scenario if you could please help with:
– Will it be ok to submit their application and book their interviews in the UK? As I wasn’t sure if you had to apply in your country of birth/passport? Also, do you happen to know the average time it takes for them to make a decision after the interview? I have a 2-month window before their UK visa expires, so wanted to know whether it would be possible to get a decision within this time frame.
– I believe I need to complete two separate DS-160 applications, one for my aunt and one for my uncle – is this correct?
– How can I increase their chances of getting the visa approved? I was planning to get the sponsor to send a letter of invite, show proof of income to be able to support them, proof of home ownership/rent and complete an Affidavit of support (I-134 form).
– However, when I went through your DS-160 form page – there was nowhere to add these documents to support the application. Under these circumstances, how can I show that the sponsor is taking full responsibility of all the costs associated with my aunt and uncle for the duration of their trip?
– For the scenario described above – is it still better to apply for a B1/B2 combined visa option or do you recommend a different category? If the visa is granted – do they only grant the visa for the term requested or is it for longer than that?
– My aunt also has a few cousins in the US, which she does keep regular contact with. Would you advise that we include everyone in the category which asks if you have any other relatives? Will this help / increase their chances to get the visa approved?
I would be very grateful if you could answer the questions above as it will really help me with this application.
Thank you
NP
Thirumal says
Hi NP!
– Yes. You can have your uncle and aunt attend their US visa interviews in the UK. It is not mandatory to attend visa interviews in the country of citizenship or passport. You can attend the US visa interview anywhere in the world.
The visa decision is immediate. Your uncle and aunt will be told their visa results at the end of the interview. It may take 5-7 working days to receive their passports.
– Correct. You need to fill two DS-160 forms, one for your uncle and one for your aunt.
– Sponsorships and documentation will not help in the US visa application. What helps are (1) strong ties to their home country and (2) the obligation to return back to their home countries after the trip.
– You cannot upload documents in DS-160. The visa officers won’t ask for them during the interview either. The only option is to enter the sponsor’s name and address under “who is paying for the trip”. But, I think it’s better for them to just say “Self” since they can afford the travel expenses. This eliminates the need to introduce new people on the visa application and unnecessary complications.
– B1/B2 is the appropriate category of visa for them. US visas are granted for 10 years for Indian passport holders.
– Yes. She has to mention that in her DS-160 if she has any relatives in the US. It won’t help/increase her chances. It’s mostly for the records.
Icarus says
By the way, are B1/B2 visas issued from the date of the interview or date of the journey mentioned in DS-160?
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! All US B1/B2 visas are issued from the date of “interview”.
Nicholas says
I have a good friend with a serious DS-160 form issue.
[1] Her English is NOT good and she made SEVERAL mistakes that are NOT TRIVIAL while completing the form, submitted the form and paid the fee.
[2] She has NOT scheduled an appointment.
[3] She thought about correcting those mistakes by retrieving the existing form. But, is worried that because there were too many mistakes on the original form, those would be used against her even after she submitted a new form.
(a) Should she go ahead and submit a new form by retrieving the old form in the system?
OR, should she submit a BRAND NEW DS160 and pay a new application fee (meaning, she abandons the already submitted form)?
(b) Would mistakes made in the old form be used against her? She is aware she needs to bring the old and new forms with her to an interview if she chooses to submit a new one by retrieving an existing one.
You advise shall be very much appreciated.
Thank You.
Thirumal says
Hi Nicholas!
1. Not speaking good English can be a problem in the interview but at least she can convey the information well in her DS-160 if she takes someone’s (native English speaker) help.
2. If she hasn’t scheduled the appointment yet, she can create a brand new DS-160 and still use the fee that she already paid for scheduling the appointment.
3. No. The old form is irrelevant. The DS-160 number that she would enter while scheduling her visa interview will only be used during the interview. Any old DS-160s she filled are totally irrelevant.
(a) Visa fee is irrelevant for DS-160. Visa fee is for “scheduling the visa interview” ONLY. She can fill as many DS-160s as she wants. But she has to use ONE “DS-160 confirmation number” while scheduling her interview. That way, the visa officers will exactly know the DS-160 that they need to pull up and review during her interview.
(b) No. The visa officers will not be interested in old DS-160s she filled. They will be interested in the DS-160 number that she mentioned/entered in the “visa interview scheduling system”. More info on how to schedule a visa appointment.
If she has already scheduled her interview, it’s necessary to pay the fee again and schedule a new appointment with new DS-160. Since she hasn’t scheduled her interview yet, she can fill a new DS-160 with the help of someone and use that new DS-160 while scheduling her interview.
Akosua says
Please help out in 2017 I applied for B1/B2 visa and was denied and issued with 214(b) based on I don’t have stronger ties, in 2018 my fiancé filed fiancé I-129F and was denied at USCIS level. Right now my fiancé and I are not together I want to attend my brother graduation.
Now when you are filing DS 160, you are asked “have someone ever filed immigrant visa on your behalf” if the answer is yes explain, the answer is yes but I don’t know the reason for the denial, he is not willing to tell me the reason. Please what should I do?
Thirumal says
Hi Akosua! You don’t have to explain or mention the reason of denial. You just have to mention who filed, when and the status of it. If you know the petition number then that’s good too.
In your case, I suggest just mentioning that your fiancé at that time filed the petition for you in a certain year and you don’t know the reason for denial.
alex says
Good day! I just want to ask if what will I choose in marital status. Live-in partner but the guy is married is it possible for a domestic partner or just choose single? Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Alex! For live-in partnership, you can select “CIVIL UNION/DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP” for your marital status.
preet says
I have one situation here, I was submitting DS-160 form for my daughter 2 yrs old, but mistakenly I selected No in “Did anyone assist you in filling application”. The fee is done and the appointment is scheduled. The details there present on the Confirmation page are correct absolutely.
So is there any problem in this case during the visa interview or should I submit a new application? Time is very less, I cannot go for another appointment date for my child. Please advise.
Thirumal says
Hi Preet! All her personal data is correct which is very important. Saying “no” to “anyone assist” question is not an issue. You don’t need to worry about it too much. You don’t need to do a reapplication as well.
Taiwo hassan says
Hi Sir! I am traveling with my family to the US but need clarity completing the DS-160. My wife’s monthly salary is higher than mine, we are both employed. I earn extra from my personal business I run apart from my major job. “Under sponsor for this trip” is she to fill self?
Who should be the beneficiary, we also have a travel history.
regards
Thirumal says
Hi Taiwo! If your wife has a source of income and can support her travel to the US, you can fill “SELF” in your wife’s DS-160 for the question “Person/Entity Paying for Your Trip”.
Icarus says
I have 15 members in my group and I have given only their graduation details. I have already secured our appointments. Will it create problems in the interview?
My group members are 50 years or above of age, going for pooja ceremony in the USA. They have invitation letters from the temple in their name. So, will their application be scrutinized in general or in detail?
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! I believe you can enter up to 5 educational institutions in a DS-160. I usually advise my readers entering from the highest education to the lowest up till high school or higher secondary. I don’t think it would create issues, but entering all data without holding off any is a good practice.
Applicants are scrutinized individually even though they will be traveling in a group. Each of those applicants is considered as a specific applicant wanting to visit the US for religious reasons. Since the applicants are 50 years and above, they may not be scrutinized much.
Sarkar says
I am applying for my old mother’s visa and she does not remember her educational background details. What should I do as these are required fields?
Thirumal says
Hi Sarkar! You can use approximate dates and general locations. Applications from senior citizens will not be scrutinized that much. Therefore, it’s absolutely fine to use approximate dates and general locations.
If you don’t know what educational background your mother has, then just enter one educational detail such as “schooling” or “middle school”, etc. You get the idea.
icarus says
Forgot to ask, I have mentioned only graduation degree details in form DS-160. Is it ok or 12th pass details to be included? Do they check graduation certificate at the interview? Actually many questions in the form DS-160 seem trivial, isn’t it?
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! No, every piece of information on DS-160 is important and verifiable. Therefore, you have to enter only truthful and honest information. Holding information is considered as lying as well.
Yes, you have to enter your 12th and secondary/high school details as well.
You will not be asked to show any certificates. Visa offices use many databases to verify the information. They may have your graduation information in their databases already. Therefore, they don’t ask for your graduation certificates. But failing to give the information or lying about it can have serious consequences as they can verify/match information in their databases.
Taku says
Hi, please help. I was denied my C1/D visa under section 214b. I was interviewed in Zimbabwe. Problem is that I put my work experience when I was working in South Africa. So the consular asked for my work permit I didn’t have it but she never gave me a chance to tel her that I was using an Asylum. So now I want to reapply and provide my Asylum that I was using in South Africa. So is it a good idea to apply from South Africa once the visa was denied in Zimbabwe? And can this Asylum prove that I was legally staying in a foreign land?
Thirumal says
Hi Taku! Yes, you can reapply and in the interview, you can tell that your previous visa was denied on the fact that you couldn’t show your asylum proof. You can apply from either Zimbabwe or South Africa. It’s not mandatory to apply for the US visa from the country of passport.
icarus says
Thanks! By the way, what exactly is a maiden name? Asking as there are a couple of other women whose DS-160 forms to be filled. So don’t want to err again. Does the maiden name appear in her passport anywhere? How does embassy cross check other names/maiden names etc.?
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! Maiden name is the surname name of a woman (sometimes men as well) before marriage. Some women change their last or surnames after the marriage. If they did, they will have a maiden name and current name. If not, their maiden name and current name are the same.
Maiden name does not appear in passports. It’s only necessary for DS-160, so US Department of State can have the maiden names (if they have one) on the record as well. US Department of State doesn’t cross-check other names or maiden names, it’s only for records.
There may be many reasons why the US Department of State wants to have maiden names on the record. Some women change their surnames back to their maiden after divorce. It makes it easy for the US Department of State to track or match such applicants to their old records if they have their maiden name on the file as well. Also, it is believed that US and many other countries maintain databases of applicants’ information. The more data they have about an applicant the better it is for them to match and verify.
Desperate Father says
I am a permanent resident. I have a 9 yr old daughter in Colombia, but her mother and I never married. My daughter’s mother is willing to let her visit me in the US, but not willing to let me petition her for a green card to come live with me in the US. We have tried twice to get her a visa to come visit me and both times she has been denied. First time she went with her mother to the interview and was told she did not have sufficient ties in Colombia (I am her only relative in the US, all the rest of her family, including her mother, live in Colombia). The second time I went with her to the interview and was told I should petition for an immigrant visa for her instead of a visitors visa. Her mother will not allow this. Not sure how to make them understand I do not want to get a green card for my daughter, I just want her to be able to visit me in the US.
I am trying for the 3rd time. I would like her to come to the US to a summer camp and visit, and have already registered her. The person filling the application suggested not to mention this in the purpose of the trip and to chose B1/B2 visa, but used the summer camp info and address as her contact in the US. Need guidance on:
1.- how to properly fill the DS 160 so my daughter can get her visa: what to put under purpose and contact, and also under reasons for previous denials; and
2.- how to handle the issue that her mother would not agree to an immigrant petition during the interview, while at the same time make clear I still would like my daughter to visit me in the US.
Thirumal says
Hi!
1. It’s unfortunate but extremely unlikely for her visa to be approved. The visa officers can see her previous attempts, notes from previous visa officers and visa results. They would again tell that a B1/B2 visa is not appropriate for her.
2. This is a family and legal issue. I’m very sorry but I cannot give you any advice. Only an immigration lawyer can guide you well in this situation.
icarus2712 says
Select “Yes” if you have a maiden name, otherwise select “No”
Here in case of married ladies is it necessary to mention before marriage name- in case only surname changes after marriage and first name remain same?
(e.g Sandhya Sharma before marriage , now Sandhya Mishra after marriage, should YES option to be selected and mention Sandhya Sharma in this case?)
if the form is submitted and appointment has been booked and due to oversight No has been selected what is the way out? will the embassy reject the application(B1/B2 visa)
Nowhere in the passport before marriage name is mentioned i guess.
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus2712! It is not mandatory to enter “other names used”. But if you have a maiden name, you can enter it. If you have already submitted your DS-160 and scheduled your appointment, do not worry about. That information is not mandatory.
Eliza says
Hi Thirumal, need your advice on what would be the best answer if I were asked “why are you traveling alone?” .
Thirumal says
Hi Eliza! Such questions are personal and only you know the answer to that question. If I give an answer for you, then we will be trying to game the system which is illegal and will have serious consequences.
Gayle says
Hello,
I am applying for a US visa for my grandmother. Her last visa was issued in 1987 however the dates for this question starts from 1999 and I cannot move on without answering this question. What is the best way to answer this question, will selecting a date in 1999 cause problems with her application? Is there anyway to indicate that her last visa was issued prior to 1999.
Thirumal says
Hi Gayle! There isn’t a way to convey this information elsewhere. This may be that the visa officers are interested in knowing visas only in the last 10 years. The only option is to select 1999 and have your grandmother explain why you had to select 1999 during the interview.
US consulates do not scrutinize applications from senior citizens. You are fine selecting 1999 for that question. But have your grandmother convey that info to the visa officer during the interview, so they can update the records properly. It is important to have the correct information in their records.
Selva says
Hi sir,
I am travelling with my 2 kids to US and i have completed ds 160. My doubt is, when paying visa fees, do i need to pay individually for all 3 and generate 3 individual receipt numbers or i can pay together for all 3 and generate only 1 receipt number.
Thanks.
Thirumal says
Hi Selva! Yes, you have to pay individually for all 3 and generate 3 individual receipt numbers. Only groups of 10 or more (non-family groups only) has special provisions to pay the fee as a group.
surbhi says
At present I am in canada. So in address I have to mention my canada address or india?
Thirumal says
Hi Surbhi! It depends on your “status” in Canada. If you are currently traveling in Canada on a tourist visa, you must enter your address in India. But if you working or studying in Canada, you must enter your Canada address as you are technically residing in Canada.
Tanny says
Yes, I did not get chosen. A friend said I should mention it as they have record. So I am stuck and confuse.
Thanks for your assistance.
Thirumal says
There are no hard and fast rules. You are supposed to give honest information. If you want to mention that you applied for DV program, you can do so for the question “has anyone filed immigration petition”.
Tayyab says
Hi Thirumal,
Thank you for your kind support. I am going with self and ticked does not apply in the source of income as I do not earn money. Is it ok?
Thank you.
Thirumal says
Yes, that’s the least complicated option to handle your situation. You may be asked in the interview on how you are funding your travel if you do not have a source income. Be prepared for such questions.
sabb says
Hello!
1. Travel Companion: (yes)
i will be traveling with my live in partner’s mother we were both part of an organization and will attend the convention do i need to click yes in “are you part of an organization?” if yes I will put the name of the organization even though i am the only one applying for US Visa
2. marital status again:
my live in partner is an opposite sex is it still domestic partnership?(in Philippines)
3. do i need a reservation if I enter the hotel where we will stay? or is it okey just to put the hotel even we dont have reservations yet?
TIA!
sabb says
Hello!
1. Travel Companion: (yes)
I will travel with my live-in partner’s mother but we are both part of an organization and we will attend Convention but I’m the only one applying for US Visa. Do I need to click yes in “are you traveling as a part of a group or organization” if yes I will put the name of the organization? If no I will just put the name of my partner’s mother?
2. For marital status again:
My live-in partner is the opposite sex. Do I still choose Domestic partnership? (we’re from the PH)
3. Do I need to put the place where we will stay even though I don’t have reservations yet?
TIA
Thirumal says
Hi Sabb/Tia,
1. A group takes precedence over the partner. You must enter your organization name.
2. Yes. A live-in relationship is a domestic partnership arrangement.
3. If you are using a hotel name and address, I suggest you make a “refundable” reservation. If the US consulate contacts them, they must be able to confirm that you will stay with them.
Tanny says
Hi Thirumal, I made an entry for DV programme few years back. What should I answer for this section in DS160 “Have you ever been refused a U.S. visa, or been refused admission to the United States, or withdrawn your application for admission at the port of entry?”
Thirumal says
Hi Tanny! I assume if your entry hasn’t been picked up in the DV program, then it’s not considered as refusal or withdrawn. You don’t have to mention anything for that question.
jignesh says
Hi,
Which visa should we opt for Tourism and Medical (B2 visa) or Business and travel (B1/B2 visa). Our purpose of visit is only tourism at present trip. Does selecting either of this makes any difference in the interview ?
Thirumal says
Hi Jignesh! Selecting B2 or B1/B2 should not make any difference in your interview. I usually suggest selecting B1/B2 as it’s the most appropriate. US visas are issued for 10 years, so you may visit the US many times in those 10 years. Most of the times it may be for tourism but there may be times where you would visit for business. So selecting B1/B2 is usually a smart move.
Vince says
Hi Thirumal,
I think I just made a mistake in my appointment application. I was renewing my United States B2 tourism/medical visa and filled the correct code in the DS 160 form but when I wanted to schedule an interview to see if I am exempt for an interview, I selected B1/B2 Temp Business/Tourism. Now i have to go for an interview I already paid for and is non-refundable. Please will my application be rejected because I chose a different code from what I had in my DS160 form? even though they both fall under Tourism. Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Vince! I don’t think there is information sharing between DS-160 website and visa appointment website. You will enter your DS-160 number while scheduling your visa appointment so the visa officers can pull up your DS-160 during your interview. Your selected visa types in DS-160 and visa appointment should not affect your eligibility for interview waiver. It must be something else such as you are not renewing your visa within the given time frame, etc.
Your application will not be rejected just based on selected visa types. So don’t worry about it and just do your interview well. Good luck!
Aditi chakraborty says
Hello Thirumal. I am planning to take a letter of sponsorship from my cousin, his bank documents, my mark sheet, an air ticket from Kolkata to tampa and back home again. Like you said, I have to show strong ties – what about parents and family who are here in India, never stepped out or misused a visa, and my will to join back college as soon as I come back, and my small plan to start a business here, which can be only run here in India.
Is it enough if they ask me the question?
Thirumal says
Hi Aditi! You can only show your strong ties with your country through your DS-160 and interview answers. There are no fields for you to explain that you plan to join back college and start a business. You can try to steer the conversation towards these topics in your interview if you can.
Usually, strong ties mean continuous employment, good financial solvency, decent travel history and strong family and social ties. Having parents in India will not suffice. What you need to prove is that your parents would need you to be available physically.
Jignesh says
Hi,
I am applying for visitor visa in USA, but I am facing 2 – 3 issues and looking for your help in this regards.
1) Pre marriage my wife passport was not having surname only given name was there. So now post marriage we have included her surname in new passport. But when I am filling the spouse detail it is asking to include current name as well as maiden name, so what and how should I do that. Please suggest.
2) Are we suppose to fill state or province if it is not given in passport?
3) And same is the case when she has to enter her maiden name in her ds 160 form. What should she will in place of surname ?
Thirumal says
Hi Jignesh,
1. Your wife’s given name and surnames must be according to your current passport. Don’t worry about her old passport not having her surname. It’s not relevant. Her maiden name will not be in the passport but you will just enter her maiden name for her “maiden name” or “other name”.
2. No.
3. It’s fine if your wife’s old passport doesn’t have a surname. But for “maiden name” or “other name” in DS-160, just enter her maiden name.
Tayyab says
Hi,
Also, I have mentioned the trip is sponsored by me, myself because the money is in my own bank account given to me by my father. Should I include self or parents?
Thirumal says
Hi Tayyab! You live in the UK, your father stays somewhere, he gave you money, but you are going alone. This would complicate your case. The less complicated, the better it is. I would say go with self, which is the least complicated option.
Tayyab says
Hi,
I am confused in one question. In other relatives I mentioned it yes as I know my maternal mother’s mother brother who is in new york, Should I give his names and contact details in the U.S. Address or my hotel address in the organization name as I am staying in hotel. I can either give organization name and address or my relatives name. Bit confused because at interview they match the answers with application answers.
Thirumal says
Hi Tayyab! If you will not be staying with your relatives, I suggest giving your hotel details as your US contact. If asked in the interview, you can say that it’s your own trip and staying in a hotel. Nothing to do with your relatives.
Anisha says
Hi. I am simply confused about my application for a b2 visa. I dropped out of college two years back and planning to join back this year but before that I want to take a trip down Tampa, miami and orlando., also its a sponsored trip by my cousin from Berlin. I have filled up my DS 160 but left the education section out, I don’t know if I should mention that I’m not employed and put the university i was associated with as my former education institution. And in that case what documents do I need to show to prove ties to my country.. Can anyone please help me.
Thirumal says
Hi Anisha! If you are not employed and have no source of income of your own, it’s highly difficult to secure the US visa. You have to demonstrate that you have strong ties to your country and you intend to return back after your trip.
US visa officers do not ask for any documentation. They rely only on DS-160, interview and a number of databases that contain applicant’s information sourced from third-parties.
Sammy says
Thank you for your response, Thirumal! Not sure if this will be posted right after my earlier post, but I’m unable to post the reply to it.
Anyways, unfortunately, my mother’s was denied a B2 visa without being asked many questions or even viewing any documents she brought with her. She was given a 214(b) letter. I filled out the DS-160 the best to my knowledge but when I think back now, I might have made a mistake answering the part where it said “who will be paying for the trip”. I answered “Self” to it but my mother is unemployed and I am paying for her trip. At that time I thought answering “others” would mean maybe some organization sponsoring for her trip, so, I answered “self”. Now, my question is, was I supposed to answer “other” and put my info on it since I am the one paying for the trip?
Also, I know I have to put my info on the question where it says if you have any immediate relative in U.S., do I also say yes to the question “do you have any other relative in U.S. and put my husband’s info?
Lastly, do you know if I have to fill out a new DS-160 if I want my mother to reapply?
Thank you for any info you can provide on these matters.
Thirumal says
Hi Sammy! DS-160 is very important as the visa decision to the most part is based on it. Failing to disclose information can also be considered as lying. US visa officers refer to a multitude of databases that contain the applicant’s background information. They source this information from governments and third-parties. Some of the information we enter in DS-160 might already be in those databases. If the information doesn’t match, it can be seen as lying or hiding information.
I suggest reapplying for your mother with corrected information. I also suggest spending a few days on the DS-160 as it’s the most important document. Go over the DS-160 multiple times and fix any issues you see.
– Yes, “who will be paying” must be you as you will be paying for your mother’s trip. Select “OTHER PERSON” and fill the details.
– Yes, your details must be filled in for “immediate relatives”.
– Yes, your husband details must be filled in for “other relatives”.
Yes, you will have to fill a new DS-160, pay the visa fee and schedule the interview again.
Cherag says
Hi Thirumal,
I am filling DS-160 for F1 visa. I have a doubts regarding same:
I am currently working at a company, and I am on notice period. My last working day is on 4th May.
So, while filling DS-160, I am employed at this company, but while giving visa interview I would have left the company.
In this case, should I mention my current job in “present” occupation or “previous” occupation? Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Cherag! If you intend to attend your interview after 4th May, you must enter your current job as your previous occupation.
Kushan Patel says
Hi Thirumala,
I am reading your blogs and I must say that they are very useful for individual who want to apply for US visa. I do also need clarification to fill up my and my family DS-160 form for US visitor visa. I will be glad if I get prompt reply as I have prepared the forms and ready to book an appoinment. My area of clarifications are as below;
1. first of all do I need to write my all education details since childhood? or just university degree details?
2. my parents are US citizen and my mother lives in US with her sister but my father now lives in India and he does not have any plan to come to US for staying long period. he might come once in a 2 year just for short visit. So what should I write in the question that ask me about that father is in US? I mentioned no currently and yes for my mother. please guide.
3. My mother has filled petition for me , my wife and my eldest son. so the question of has anyone filled immigration petition ? I write yes in my application. what about my wife and my eldest son? should their DS160 form I also have to mention or its a just for primary applicant? and if yes for all, then I have my youngest child who was born after my petition was filled and we did not do anything for him till now. so in his DS 160 , I have mention NO. Is that ok?
4. I was refused once and my wife was refused 2 time before 5-6 years ago. Now we are Canadian PR holder and we are applying from Canada.
your answers and suggestions will be highly appreciated and thanks in advance. Please reply urgent if you can, as I need to book an appointment soon.
Thirumal says
Hi Kushan!
1. Yes. From secondary school onwards. Start from the highest education.
2. “No” for your father since he is “physically” not in the US. “Yes” for your mother.
3. Though you are the primary applicant, if it automatically includes the entire family when the petition is approved, you need to mention “YES” for all (you, your wife and your child) and explain the details. Their names may not be on the petition but they are eligible for the residency or change of status when the petition is approved.
4. That is fine. But you and your wife must mention your previous visa denials in your DS-160s.
Kushan Patel says
HI, Thirumal,
Thank you for prompt reply. Just to clear my doubts, what should be declare for question about any immigration petition in my youngest son`s DS160 application? As he was born after petition was filled. should I mention yes in his application too? I did click yes for me, my wife and my elder son , but still not sure for younger one? please reply.
Thanks
Thirumal says
In my opinion, you must say “Yes” and enter the details such as “a petition was filed for his parents and brother before he was born”.
Tayyab says
Hi,
A stupid question:
Since I arrived in uk on a study visa, i’ve been to Pakistan two times which is my home country and also dubai. Apart from dubai, will I mention Pakistan or U.K. in my last five years travel? As I travelled U.K and Pakistan but U.K. is my study visa entry not travel and Pakistan is my home country !
Thirumal says
Hi Tayyab! Only the US authorities know the true answer to this question. But I suggest my readers enter all countries except US and country of passport. In your case, it would be the UK and UAE.
sabb says
Hi Thirumal! Thank you so much for answering my questions!
I just want to have your opinion. I have a Business, but my live-in partner will pay for my trip, what is your opinion? Self-funded or other person paying for my trip? Because consul might question why will other person paying for my trip if I have a business they might think that my business is not operating successfully
I just want to have your opinion in that case.
TIA!
Thirumal says
Hi Sabb! The more you complicate your case, the fewer chances of visa approval. Along with a true purpose of travel, you are supposed to have excellent employment background, exceptional travel history, very good financial solvency, strong family and social ties. Anything out of this can be considered as a “complication”. I suggest to keep it as less complicated as possible if you care about your visa approval.
Icarus says
Thanks! I have raised a request for the group interview. Any idea of grounds it might get rejected and if so, can I really request? I have mentioned the preferred date of appointment as “any first available date after 10th of April” there are 18 people in the group.
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! I don’t really know how the group interview appointments work for large groups such as yours. I usually assist individual travelers or families.
Tayyab says
Hi,
Thank you for answering first question, in reference to my first question.I will be very thankful if you can answer second one.
1) On Ds160 application, it is written “ Your National Id is a unique number that your government provides.” In my case even I am applying from U.K but my government is not U.K., my government I think is Pakisran. Just want to confirm as still confused.
2) After the immediate relatives question, a question comes which is “ Do you have any other relatives in the U.S?” Well I am going as a tourist and living in hotel and no one is sponsoring me. I dont have any immediate relatives, but there are relatives that are very distant and their surnames are same as of mine, the thing is I dont even have contact with them except one who is maternal mothers uncle, I am nor visiting him but if I get visa maybe I will visit him another time. Very confused. Do I have to answer yes in this case, I dont have any details of him, what could they ask about him if I answer yes, but I think I should answer no. The problem can occur if I travel second or third time and go to his house then they can stop me saying that you said you have no relatives. Because they also stop and ask at Passport control. Very confused.
3) I am also required to show university letter at the embassy and on the letter, my term time address is the one where I am living in U.K and my home address is the pakistan one. Still I need to give U.K address in my home address of ds160?
Sorry for detailed questions. I hope to get answer. Thank you so much in advance.
Thirumal says
Hi Tayyab!
1. You can enter either one. But in my opinion, you are a student in the UK and have the obligation to return back to the UK to continue your studies after your US trip. That means you are demonstrating strong ties with the UK. In that case, a national id from the UK makes sense.
Note: The US refers to numerous databases and they may have your BRP Id and Pakistan Id already. It’s up to you to enter whichever you think is relevant in your situation.
2. If you don’t keep in touch with your relatives and don’t know where they live, you must answer “No”. But, if you think you may get in touch with them or may even visit them in the future, then answer “yes”.
The CBP can deny your entry into the US at the port of entry. They can even cancel your visa at the port of entry. This would usually happen if you commit a crime, overstay your visa or lie on the visa application. But things such as relatives shouldn’t affect your visa.
3. In that case, enter your “home address” as the address in Pakistan. Enter your “mailing address” as your address in the UK.
R A Khan says
Hi Thirumal! I’m applied for a B1/B2 visa. Last 24 March 2019 was my appointment date. But I was refused the visa. Now I’m filling DS160 form again. In the form, there is a question if you are refused a US visa. Yes I am. Explain what I write there. I don’t understand. Please help me. What I do.
Thank you
Thirumal says
Hi RA Khan! You must check your US visa refusal letter for the exact reason for your visa refusal. You must briefly explain that reason in the “Explain” field.
Mathilda says
Thanks for your response. My second question is, i had a cousin who used to live in the USA. While filling my first application in 2017, I filled his address. He’s married to an American and went to the USA through F1 visa. I have lost contact with him over a year now, should I still put his information in the “Do you have a relative section” , or just say No?
Thirumal says
Hi Mathilda! You must answer “Yes” to this question ONLY IF you keep in touch with that relative. If you don’t keep in touch and don’t know where they live, you must answer “No”.
TAYYAB says
Hi Thirumul,
I am an international student from Pakistan studying in UK. I want to apply for us visa (ds160) for tourism purposes.
I have some questions and I will be thankful if you answer :
1) What should I enter in National Identification number? I have pakistani id card and also UK temporary resident card (BRP). What should I write here?
2) What I should enter in U.S contact details? I am living in hotel in U.S, well I have uk contact number as I am student here!
3) What home address should I give uk one or pakistan one as I am applying from U.K?
Thank you so much in advance.
Thirumal says
Hi Tayyab!
1. You must enter your BRP number since you are living and applying from the UK.
2. You must enter your US hotel details as your US contact. If they already have your booking, they will respond to any US consulate queries.
3. You must enter your UK home address as the address is more for communication.
Icarus says
If a child below 14 is visiting with his grandparent to USA for first time tourism, his parents nor the grandparents having any us visa, will the child has to appear in person with his grandparent for interview or he is exempted? Here parents are not travelling only grand parents are. What documents are required of child.
Thirumal says
Hi Icarus! A child traveling with their grandparents should be fine. A declaration from the parents’ may be required for the US visa and boarding the plane. Having a declaration handy will be helpful.
Everyone, including the 14-year child, must appear for US visa interview. Grandparents and child can schedule a single visa appointment and can all go to the interview together.
sabb says
Thank you for answering my questions! sorry i cannot reply on my 1st comment
a few more questions
1. where will I put the details such as “convention”, “live.in partner’s mother(for travel companion), “live in parner” (for person paying the trip) i choose other but it did not give any details
2. what if I have an invitation for the convention? where or what section will I put/say that I have an invitation?
3. for US contact am i correct that i will put the name of the organization’s convention i will attend and the address of the venue or their actual address in the US?
Thirumal says
Hi Sabb!
1. When you select “OTHER”, an “Explain” box shows up. You will explain in that box. If no “Explain” box shows up, then you will explain directly to the visa officer at the interview (if asked).
2. There is no field to mention about invitations in DS-160. You can carry a copy of it with you to the interview.
3. The US consulate may contact the convention organizers about you. Enter the best address and phone where they can be reached. If that’s the address of the venue, go for it.
Mathilda says