us tourist visa application ds 160

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How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

Find out if you need a visa to visit the U.S.

Check if your country participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) . If it does, you can get a waiver and will not need a visa. If you do not see your country listed, you will need a visitor visa.

Visitor (tourist) visas and other travel documents for entering the U.S.

The visitor visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa for people who wish to temporarily enter the U.S. There are two categories:

• B-1 for business travel
• B-2 for tourism and medical treatment

Learn about B-1 and B-2 visas , including:

• Reasons you would need each type of visitor visa
• How to apply
• What documents you will need
• Application fees
• How to prepare for your interview at your U.S. embassy or consulate

Along with your visa, you must bring a passport issued by your country of citizenship. When you arrive at your port of entry into the U.S., officials will issue you a Form I-94, which electronically records your arrival and departure dates. Learn more about Form I-94.

How to renew a visitor visa

The process to renew a visitor visa is the same as getting one for the first time. Follow the process to apply for a visitor visa from the Department of State.

Find the contact information for your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and contact them for visa renewal information.

Understand expiration dates for visas and I-94 forms

• The date you must depart the U.S. will be shown on your Form I-94. This date is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer when you arrive at the port-of-entry into the U.S. 
• Only diplomatic visa holders and their dependents can renew their visas while they are in the U.S.

LAST UPDATED: May 31, 2024

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A Guide To Applying for a U.S. Temporary Visa With Form DS-160

Form DS-160 is also called the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form. Many people applying for temporary U.S. visa classifications like student visas and fiancé visas will have to file Form DS-160 with the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country to get permission to come to the United States. This article is a guide to Form DS-160. It explains who needs to file the form, the application process, and what happens after filing.

Written by Jonathan Petts .  Updated August 22, 2022

Who needs to file Form DS-160?

Most people who will be visiting the United States temporarily will need to file Form DS-160. If you plan to visit the United States with a temporary visa, such as the  F-1 visa , you must file  Form DS-160 . If you are traveling to the United States with a  K-1 visa  and will be getting married, you must also file Form DS-160. Citizens of Mexico who are applying for a TN visa (for  NAFTA  professionals) will also need to file this form. But, Canadian citizens applying for a  TN visa won’t need to file Form DS-160. Green card holders also do not need to file Form DS-160.

Each person traveling with you, including your children, will need their own completed DS-160 application. Applicants ages 16 years or younger, and applicants unable to complete the form on their own, may receive assistance from someone else. If you assist another applicant with completing their DS-160 form, you must identify yourself on the form’s “Sign and Submit” page.

How do you fill out Form DS-160?

You must file Form DS-160  online  through the U.S. Department of State Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC). There’s no paper version of the application.

On the CEAC online application, you’ll be able to save your progress on the form in case of any time outs. CEAC will save your information for up to 30 days counting from the day you began  the application. You’ll have to submit the form within 30 days of starting. You can access your saved form when you click the “Retrieve an Application” button on the CEAC landing page.

For those completing other Form DS-160s for their family members, you’ll be able to create a family application on the CEAC instead of setting up a new DS-160 application for each individual. To set up your family’s new application, complete your own Form DS-160. Then, on the CEAC’s “Thank You” page after the confirmation page, there will be an option allowing you to begin a family application. Creating a family application will automatically fill in some information for each family member, but be sure to review all Form DS-160s to ensure that they are complete and that each traveling family member has their own form.

What will you need to fill Form DS-160?

To fill out Form DS-160, you’ll need to have your passport and your travel itinerary. If applicable, you will need a national ID number from your home country and your Social Security Number (SSN) or U.S. Taxpayer ID. You should also find past travel and employment documents because you’ll need to answer some questions about your travel and employment history. You’ll also need to complete some biographical information questions on the forms about your travel companions, so be sure you have access to a record of their biographical information.

If you are traveling to the United States for school, you must also know the address of the school you’ll be attending and have a copy of your Student Exchange Visitor Information System  (SEVIS) ID . You can find your SEVIS ID on your Form I-20 or Form DS-2019.

If you are traveling to the United States as a temporary worker, you should also keep a copy of your Form I-129 close.

Lastly, all applicants must upload a current photograph satisfying  government requirements  to the online form.

What information does Form DS-160 request?

Form DS-160 will first ask you for the location you’ve chosen for applying for your U.S. visa. You should pick a U.S. embassy or consulate convenient for you, but don’t worry if your plans change. Suppose you have to travel unexpectedly but are still waiting to complete the visa application process. In that case, you’ll be free to schedule your visa interview appointment at a different U.S. embassy or consulate.

The next page of Form DS-160 will show you your Application ID number. You’ll also need to answer a security question. Be sure to keep this information in your records because you’ll need your Application ID and security question answer to come back to the application later.

Your saved form only remains available for 30 days. If you need more time than that to complete it, you may download Form DS-160 to your computer’s hard drive and upload it later. Read on for a breakdown of each part of Form DS-160.

Form DS-160 Part 1: Personal Information

The first part of Form DS-160 will ask you for your personal biographical information, including your full name, date of birth, marital status, nationality, passport or national ID number(s), and your U.S. Social Security Number (SSN) or U.S. Taxpayer ID number (if applicable).

Form DS-160 Part 2: Travel Information

The second part of Form DS-160 will ask you about your travel plans. You’ll need to explain your reasons for traveling, provide your arrival and departure dates, and provide the U.S. address at which you’re staying. If you do not have exact arrival or departure dates yet, you should give an estimate.

Form DS-160 Part 3: Travel Companions

The third part of Form DS-160 is where you’ll answer questions about your travel companions—the friends, family, or members of an organized tour group traveling with you to the United States. You won’t need to include information about any work colleagues traveling with you on this part of the form. But, be sure to remember that all travelers will need to complete and have their own Form DS-160.

Form DS-160 Part 4: Previous U.S. Travel

The form will then ask about the dates and details of any past travels to the United States. If the U.S. government has previously denied you a visa or if you have any history of submitting an immigrant petition to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you’ll need to disclose this.

Form DS-160 Part 5: Address and Phone Number

You’ll need to provide your current address, mailing address, phone number, and email address for section five. You’ll also need to list any social media accounts you have had over the last five years. Immigration officials may check your social media activity during their review of your application.

Form DS-160 Part 6: Passport Information

Next, you’ll need to provide your passport information. You’ll need to provide your Passport Book Number (or Inventory Control Number). Some countries do not use this number, so you should check off “Does Not Apply” if you do not have a Passport Book Number. You’ll also need to disclose if you’ve ever lost your passport before on this part of the form.

Form DS-160 Part 7: U.S Point of Contact

This section will ask you to list contact information for someone in the United States who knows you and can verify your identity. If you don’t have anyone in mind to list here, you can also submit the name of a company or organization you’ll be visiting during your trip instead. 

Form DS-160 Part 8: Relatives

You’ll now need to answer questions about your parents and any relatives currently living in the United States. If you have a spouse, you’ll also need to answer questions about their name, date of birth, nationality, and address.

Form DS-160 Part 9: Work, Education, and Training

Next, you’ll need to provide details about your educational and employment history going back to the last five years. You should also disclose your travel history, any special skills you have, and any military, charity, or professional groups you have been involved with before.

Form DS-160 Part 10: Security and Background Information

The form will then ask you 25 questions on security and background information. Be sure to review each question thoroughly and do not make mistakes as this could harm your application.

Form DS-160 Part 11: Applicant Photo

Next, you should upload a photo satisfying government requirements to the online form. See the Department of State  website  for more information on which kinds of images the U.S. government will accept.

Form DS-160 Part 12: Review, Confirm Location, Sign, and Submit

Lastly, you will have a chance to review each part of your form. The CEAC will ask you which U.S. embassy or consulate you’re applying through. You’ll then need to review terms and conditions and submit the form. Once you complete the form, be sure to save and print out your Form DS-160 confirmation page, as you’ll need it for your visa interview with a consular officer later.

Is there a filing fee for Form DS-160?

Fortunately, there is no filing fee for Form DS-160. However, you’ll still need to pay any applicable filing fees, depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. For many non-petition nonimmigrant visas, like business, tourist, or TN visas for NAFTA professionals, your filing fee will be $160. For most petition-based visas, your filing fee will usually be $190. You can double-check your visa filing fee on the U.S. Department of State  website .

What happens after filing Form DS-160?

Once you complete Form DS-160, you must print out the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) confirmation page. During your visa interview at your local U.S. consulate or embassy, you’ll need this confirmation page. If you did not print out your confirmation page the first time you completed Form DS-160, you can log into the CEAC with your Application ID number and security question. You will then be able to print out the page. At your visa interview, you must bring this confirmation page and any other supporting documents necessary for your visa application.

Throughout your application process, you will be able to check on the status of your Form DS-160 through the Department of State  website .

Continue reading and learning!

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DS-160 Form for US Visa: Everything You Need to Know

Updated: September 8, 2023

If you are applying for a US visa, you must complete the DS-160 form. Filling out the DS-160 form is a mandatory requirement for all US nonimmigrant visa applications such as the B1/B2.

The US Department of State uses form DS-160 along with the visa interview to determine your eligibility for a US visa. It’s important to complete this form accurately and honestly.

In this article, you will learn everything about the DS-160 form, the documents needed and how to complete it.

Table of Contents

What is ds-160 form.

DS-160 form is an online nonimmigrant visa application form for the United States. It’s a mandatory form for all US nonimmigrant visa applications such as the B1/B2. Completing this form is the first step in the US visa application process.

It’s a lengthy form so it can take about 60-90 minutes to fill. The form will ask for details about your personal information, travel plans, travel history, education, work, etc. For a sample form, take a look at this sample DS-160 on the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website.

Who Must Fill DS-160 Form?

If you are applying for a nonimmigrant visa for the US such as a B1/B2, you must fill out the DS-160 form. This form is required for all US nonimmigrant visa applicants regardless of their age or nationality.

Form DS-160 is the first step in the US visa application process. This is an online form that can take about 60-90 minutes to fill.

It’s important to fill this form accurately and honestly. Providing false or misleading information can lead to visa refusal or a temporary ban.

Where to Fill DS-160 Form?

To fill out the form DS-160, visit Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website. This is the only website authorized for completing and submitting the form DS-160.

A Word of Caution Third parties are allowed to fill out the application on your behalf. But I highly recommend filling out the form yourself to avoid any errors.

Technical Requirements to Fill Out Form DS-160

Before you start filling out your form DS-160, ensure that you have the necessary technical requirements.

• Device Compatibility: You need a computer or laptop. It’s a lengthy form with several sections. It’s cumbersome to fill it out on a phone or tablet. Use a computer or laptop.
• Browser Compatibility: You need a major browser such as Google Chrome, Firefox or Internet Explorer. It also works on Safari and Microsoft Edge, but I highly recommend using Google Chrome.
• Internet Connection: You need a stable and reliable internet connection. A slow and unstable internet can cause the form to load slowly or freeze. This can lead to frustration and delays.
• Software Requirements: You need a PDF reader installed on your computer. A PDF reader is necessary to view and print your confirmation page. If you do not have one, download Adobe Acrobat Reader .
• Other Technical Requirements: Disable popups and download blockers on your browser. These blockers can prevent downloading your confirmation page.

Documents Required to Fill Out DS-160 Form 

You must have the following documents ready before filling out your form DS-160. The form is long and requires a lot of information. Make sure to keep these documents and information handy before you start the application.

• Valid passport: You need a valid passport. The validity requirements for the passport depend on your nationality. Refer to the six-month club update on the CBP website for current passport validity requirements for US visa applications.
• Old passports (if any): You need your old passports to fill out the information on any previously issued US visas and travel history in the last 5 years.
• Digital photo: You need one digital photo as per the US visa photo requirements . Otherwise, you must carry two copies of 2-inch x 2-inch (50mmx50mm) photos to your personal interview.
• Travel itinerary: You need your US travel itinerary such as the date of arrival, length of the trip, etc. If you had made travel arrangements already, you would need your flight and hotel details as well.
• National ID: You need your National ID as you would need to fill in your national ID number.
• SSN or ITIN: If you have lived in the US before, you need to fill out your SSN or ITIN information. You need these documents handy as well.
• Employment history documents: You need information about your employment history starting from your current employer and past two employers.
• Education history documents: You need information about your education starting from your highest education all the way to high school.
• Travel history documents: You need information about the countries you have traveled in the last 5 years.
• Other Information: You also need information about your family, travel companions, social media accounts and the details of your US contact person.

Form DS-160 Fee

There is no fee to fill out form DS-160. This is only the first step in your US visa application process. You will pay the visa fee of $185 in the next step, which is scheduling your visa interview.

Form DS-160 Processing Time

There is no processing time for form DS-160. When you submit your form, the confirmation page is displayed immediately.

Again, keep in mind that filling out this form is only the first step in your US visa application process. You would still need to schedule and attend your visa interview.

Form DS-160 Validity

The validity of your DS-160 form depends on whether you are still filling it out or already submitted it.

Unsubmitted: Form DS-160 is valid for 30 days from the day of starting the application. You must complete and submit your form within this time period. After 30 days, the form will expire, and you will need to complete a new form.

Submitted: Form DS-160 is valid for one year from the day of submission. You must use this submitted DS-160 to schedule your interview within one year.

DS-160 Confirmation Number

When you submit your completed DS-160 form, you will receive a confirmation page with a unique 10-digit barcode. This barcode is your DS-160 confirmation number. You must make a note of this 10-digit code. You would need this to schedule your visa appointment.

How to Fill Out DS-160 Form?

Below are the various sections of the form DS-160 and the information required to fill out each section.

Section 01: Getting Started

Start your DS-160 form by going to the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website. Select the location and click on “Start An Application”. Make a note of the Application ID displayed.

Section 02: Personal

Enter your personal details such as your name, gender, date of birth, marital status, nationality, national ID number and US social security number (if you have one).

Section 03: Address and Phone

Enter your home and mailing address, phone and email addresses.

Section 04: Passport

Enter your passport details such as the passport number, place of issue, date of issue and expiration.

Section 05: Travel

Enter the purpose of your trip, details of your travel plans and whether you or some else is paying for the trip.

Section 06: Travel Companions

Enter the details of your travel companions. If you will be traveling by yourself, simply select “No” and move on to the next section.

Section 07: Previous U.S. Travel

Enter information about your previous US visa and US travel details. If you have never been to the US, select “No” and move on to the next section.

Section 08: U.S. Contact

Enter the information about your point of contact in the US. If you are a tourist, enter the details of your hotel or family/friend where you will stay.

Section 09: Family

Enter your father’s and mother’s information and details of any relatives that you have in the US.

Section 10: Work / Education / Training

Enter your employment, education and travel history information. This section is applicable only to certain applicants. If you do not see this section, simply move on to the next section.

Section 11: Security and Background

In this section, read and answer each and every security question. Every security question is important so make sure to answer accurately.

Section 12: Photo

In this section, upload your photo as per the photo requirements. This section is not applicable to applicants from certain countries. So if this section is not shown, move on to the next one.

Section 13: Review

In this section, review the information you have entered so far. This section will have 7 subsections, so take your time and review each and every detail for accuracy. Past this step, you cannot correct any information.

Section 14: Sign and Submit

In this section, electronically sign application and submit it. If someone helped you in filling out the form, enter their details and electronically sign the form.

To make this process easier, I have prepared a step-by-step guide with screenshots on how to fill DS-160 form . Refer to this guide and follow along.

How to Print DS-160 Confirmation Page?

After you submit your form DS-160, a confirmation page will be displayed. Click on the “Print Confirmation” button to print it on a letter size or A4 sheet. If you do not have access to a printer, save it as a PDF so you can print it later.

If you have already submitted your DS-160 but did not print your confirmation page, follow the below steps.

• Step 1: Go to the CEAC website and click on the “Retrieve an Application” button.
• Step 2: Enter your 10-digit application ID number (DS-160 confirmation number) and click on “Retrieve Application”. This will retrieve your submitted DS-160.
• Step 3: Click on the “Print Application Confirmation” button. A new window will open, displaying your confirmation page.
• Step 4: Click on the “Print” button to print your DS-160 confirmation. If you do not have access to a printer, save the confirmation page as a PDF so you can print it later.

After printing, keep the confirmation page in your records as you will need this for your visa interview appointment.

How to Retrieve DS-160 Form After Submission?

Follow the below steps to retrieve a DS-160 form after submission.

• Step 2: Enter your 10-digit application ID (also called DS-160 confirmation number) and click on “Retrieve Application”. This will retrieve your submitted DS-160.

You can edit the form or print the confirmation from here.

How to Edit DS-160 Form After Submission?

Follow the below steps to edit a DS-160 form after submission.

• Step 3: Click on the “Create a New Application” button. This will create a new form DS-160 and auto-populate the information from your old DS-160.
• Step 4: Make edits where necessary and submit the form. A new DS-160 confirmation will be displayed. Click on the “Print” button to print this new confirmation page.

How to fill out DS-160 for a family?

If you are applying for a US nonimmigrant visa as a family, each family member must submit a separate form DS-160. Follow these steps for completing the form for everyone in the family.

• Step 1: Start your (primary applicant) DS-160 form first. Add your family members as your travel companions.
• Step 2: After submitting your form, on the “thank you” page, you will be given the option to create DS-160 forms for your family members.
• Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions from there, some of the common information (such as travel dates, companions, etc) will be copied over to your family members’ forms. This saves time and helps to avoid making mistakes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to fill out the ds-160.

It takes about 60-90 minutes to complete the DS-160. If you don’t have the information required handy, it can take days to fill out the form. In such a case, you can save the form and revisit it as and when you gather the information necessary.

Do I need to complete DS-160 before visa appointment?

Yes, you must complete and submit form DS-160 before your visa appointment. Completing the DS-160 form is a prerequisite to scheduling a visa appointment.

Can someone else complete the DS-160 on my behalf?

Yes, someone else can complete your DS-160 on your behalf. But they must identify themselves at the end of the application within the “Sign and Submit” section. After which, you must personally review and sign the completed form before submitting it.

Can I make changes to my DS-160 form after submission?

Once you submit your DS-160 form, you cannot make any changes to it. However, you can create a new form and submit it with the correct information. You can pre-fill the new form DS-160 by using “Retrieve Application” with your old DS-160 Application ID.

What is an online nonimmigrant visa application?

Form DS-160 is also referred to as a nonimmigrant visa application form. The US Department of State assigns a number to each immigration form and hence the name DS-160. DS may stand for Department of State but there is no official documentation to confirm. 

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

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Advance travel planning and early visa application are important. If you plan to apply for a nonimmigrant visa to come to the United States as a temporary visitor, please review the current wait time for an interview using the tool below. Not all visa applications can be completed on the day of the interview; please read the information below for more details .

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Note: Please check the individual embassy or consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. embassy or consulate:

Global Visa Wait Times

Wait Time for Interview

The estimated wait time to receive a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate and is based on workload and staffing and can vary from week to week. The information provided is an estimate and does not guarantee the availability of an appointment.

Wait Time for Interview Waiver

Wait times for applicants eligible for Interview Waiver are applicable only for locations where applicants schedule appointments to submit their passport and any required documents to a U.S. embassy or consulate. The wait time estimate does not account for the time required for a consular officer to adjudicate the application nor mailing time of passports or other documents. Refer to the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section where you will apply to determine your eligibility for Interview Waiver and for instructions for submitting a nonimmigrant visa application. Note that applicants must be a national or resident of the country where they are applying to be eligible to apply via Interview Waiver.

Qualifications for an Expedited Interview Appointment

Consular sections overseas may be able to expedite your interview date if there is an urgent, unforeseen situation such as a funeral, medical emergency, or school start date. The process to request an expedited nonimmigrant visa interview varies by location. You should refer to the instructions on the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section  where you will interview, or on their online appointment scheduling site. You will need to provide proof of the need for an earlier appointment.

In all cases : You must first submit the online visa application form (DS-160), pay the application fee, and schedule the first available interview appointment. Only at this point will a consular section consider your request for an expedited appointment.

Note: Travel for the purpose of attending weddings and graduation ceremonies, assisting pregnant relatives, participating in an annual business/academic/professional conference, or enjoying last-minute tourism does not qualify for expedited appointments. For such travel, please schedule a regular visa appointment well in advance.

These estimates do not include time required for administrative processing, which may affect some applications. When administrative processing is required, the timing will vary based on individual circumstances of each case.

There are only two possible outcomes for U.S. visa applications. The consular officer will either issue or refuse the visa. If a visa applicant has not established that he or she is eligible for a visa, the consular officer must refuse that application. However, some refused visa applications may require further administrative processing. When administrative processing is required, the consular officer will inform the applicant at the end of the interview. The duration of the administrative processing will vary based on the individual circumstances of each case. At the conclusion of the administrative processing period, the consular officer might conclude that an applicant is now qualified for the visa for which he or she applied. The officer may also conclude that the applicant remains ineligible for a visa. Visa applicants are reminded to apply early for their visas, well in advance of the anticipated travel date.

Important Notice:   Except in cases of emergency travel (i.e. serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family), before making inquiries about status of administrative processing, applicants should wait at least 180 days from the date of interview or submission of supplemental documents, whichever is later.

About Visa Processing Wait Times – Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants

Information about nonimmigrant visa wait times for interviews and visa processing time frames are shown on this website, as well as on U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites worldwide. It should be noted that the “Wait Times for a Nonimmigrant Visa to be Processed” information by country does not include time required for administrative processing. Processing wait time also does not include the time required to return the passport to applicants, by either courier services or the local mail system.

In addition, it is important to thoroughly review all information on the specific  Embassy or Consulate Visa Section website  for local procedures and instructions, such as how to make an interview appointment. Embassy and Consulate websites will also explain any additional procedures for students, exchange visitors and those persons who need an earlier visa interview appointment.

About Wait Times

* Calendar days refers to every day of the week, including days when embassies are closed (such as weekends and holidays).

* Wait times are generally the MAXIMUM amount of time you will have to wait to get an appointment.  Appointments are continuously being added and you will likely be given an opportunity to move your appointment up as new appointments are opened.

† Work days refers only to days when the embassy is open and does not include weekends and holidays.      

‡ A, G, and NATO applications are excluded from these wait times, as they are processed separately.

Immigrant Visa Interview-Ready Backlog Report

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How To Fill Up the DS160 Form Online [USA Tourist Visa Application Form]

A lot of people want to visit the “Land of Milk and Honey,” “The Land of the Free,” or the “Land of Opportunity” – United States of America . But first, you will need to apply for a USA Visa if you’re a Philippine Passport Holder. Check out the process, how to fill up the Online DS160 Form, and many more in this article.

Many are scared to apply for USA Visa due to denied visa applications. The US Embassy is strict due to a huge number of illegal immigrants or TNTs there. However, if you have nothing to hid and go there on goodwill, it’s going to be very smooth.

• USA Visa Application Tips for Filipinos
• USA B2 Tourist Visa Applications – 20 Consul Interview Questions You Could Be Asked and How Best to Answer Them
• 30 Countries That You Can Visit With Your Multiple Entry US Visa In Your Philippines Passport– Updated For 2020!!
• How to Get an Australian Tourist Visa for Filipinos with Philippines Passport
• Planning to travel to Europe? How to Apply for Schengen Visa

Steps in How to Apply for USA Visa (Nonimmigrant Visa)

1. Complete the DS-160 Form (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application)

2. Pay the visa application fee of USD 160. Check this link for the latest exchange rates.

3. Schedule your appointment with the Embassy. You’ll need the following to be able to schedule your appointment:

• Passport Number
• MRV Dee Payment Receipt Number
• 10-Digit Barcode Number of your DS-160

4. Visit the US Embassy or Consulate on your appointment date. Be early, 30 minutes before your schedule. Please bring the following:

• Copy of your Appointment Letter
• DS-160 Confirmation Page
• One Recent Photograph (must be the same as the one you passed in your DS-160)
• Current and Old Passport
• Supporting Documents (this is not required but may help you in case the Consul asks)

5. Be interviewed by the Officer. You’ll get your result after the interview.

6. If you are approved, receive your passport after 5 days with your USA Visa!

Supporting Documents for your USA Visa Application

Not everyone may be asked to submit the following, but it’s better to be prepared:

1. Proof of Income or Assets

• Business Registration
• Certificate of Employment
• Tax Returns
• Properties or Titles

2. Travel Itinerary

• Day-to-Day Itinerary
• Hotel Bookings
• Flight Reservations

3. Letter from Employer – with your position, salary, length of service and if you are allowed to have a vacation or go for business purposes

4. Criminal or Court Records – if applicable

5. For Students – school documents or authentication, financial support

6. If you are visiting a relative – Relatives’ proof of status in the US, for example, passport, naturalization certificate, green card, etc.

Steps in How to Fill-Up DS-160 Form:

STEP 1: To apply for USA Visa by filling up a DS-160 Form through this link.

STEP 2: Select a location where you will be applying and enter the code shown. Click “Start Application.”

STEP 3: Remember your application ID and choose and answer the Security Question.

If you forget some information, you can continue it later. Retrieve it later by typing the Application ID, the first 5 letters of your Surname, year of birth, and the answer to the security question.

Click continue.

STEP 4: Type your Information

Please read below so that you may know what to prepare:

Personal Information 1

In the first part of your DS-160 Form, you will be asked the following:

• Surname – Last name
• Given Name – given name, should you have a middle initial, you can put it after your first name (e.g., if your full name is JUAN GARCIA DELA CRUZ, put JUAN GARCIA here)
• Full Name in Native Alphabet – If you have a different alphabet, for example, Japanese, then you can type in your name using Kanji or check “Does not apply or Technology not available.”
• Gender: Male or Female
• Common-Law Marriage
• Civil Union / Domestic Partnership – Note: Common Law Marriage or Domestic Partnership are unmarried lovers who live together like they are married; however definitions might differ in states or countries. Same-sex marriage are considered Civil unions in the US.
• Legally Separated
• Birthdate – Date – Month – Year Format, if you are not sure, follow what is in your passport
• City – you may put your hometown or municipality where you were born
• State/Province – You may check if it doesn’t apply
• Country/Region – Country you were born in
• Double-check this; you are not typing your home address or current address but your place of birth.

Click Next, if you want to stop, you can click save your DS-160 Form. PS If you choose “Save,” it will automatically exit to the main portal.

Personal Information 2

• Nationality
• If you have another nationality besides the first one, click yes and choose the country and answer the question if you have another passport or not. Type the passport number, too.
• If you are a permanent resident of another country, check yes, and select the country or region. If there’s none, click No.
• Type your National Identification Number, your US Social Security Number, and US Taxpayer ID Number; if it does not apply to you, check the boxes.

Travel Information

• Choose what your purpose in visiting the US is; you can choose more than one. Tourism – choose “Temp. Business Pleasure Visitor (B)” or  “Business or Tourism – B1/B2” or “Tourism or Medical Tournament – B2”
• Enter your Intended Date of Arrival (Date – Month – Year Format) and Intended Length of Stay. If you are not yet sure when you are going or how many days, please estimate.
• Address in the US – Use your relative’s or the hotel you plant to book
• Person or Entity Paying – Self, Other Person, Present Employer, Employer in the US, or other Company or Organization

Travel Companions

• Answer if you have other persons traveling with you (family, friends, tour group, etc.)
• For those in a tour group, enter the name of the group or organization, if not, then type the names of those you are traveling with and your relationship with them (you can add more than one)

Previous US Travel Information

• If it’s your first time in the US, choose “No”
• If you have, then answer the questions like Previous dates and lengths of stay of your visit
• Enter your US Driver’s license in case you have one
• If you were issued a US Visa before, answer the next questions
• Type the date your last US Visa that was issued to you and the Visa Number (8-digit number in the lower right of your visa or 12-digit number of your Border Crossing Card)
• Answer if it’s the same type of visa or a new type (like B1/B2)
• The next question will be about the country or location where you applied for a visa (if it’s the same or not)
• Have you got all of your ten-fingerprints were taken from you? If it were only two fingerprints, answer no
• US Visa has been lost /stolen or canceled/revoked
• US Visa refusal, refused admission, or withdrawn application at the port
• Petition for US Citizenship and Immigration on your behalf

Address and Phone Information

• Home address
• Mailing address (if different from home)
• Primary Phone Number (also secondary and work contact number)
• E-Mail Address
• Social Media Presence – e.g., Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.

Passport Information

• Type of your Passport – Be it regular, official, etc.
• Passport number (Valid)
• Passport book number – it is a control number of your passport, and some countries may have it while some may not. If it does not apply, check the box.
• Place of Issuance
• Issuance and Expiration Date (it must be at least 6 months valid beyond your arrival in USA, if not you may need to renew your passport)
• If you have lost or have your passport stolen (to know in case someone pretended to be you with your lost passport)

US Point of Contact Information

• Contact person or organization in the US that can verify your identity (you can check “Do Not Know”)
• Relationship to you
• Address and Contact Info in the US

Family Information: Relatives

• Full Name and Date of Birth of both your Father and Mother. If you don’t know your mom or dad, it’s okay; there is an option to check “Do Not Know.”
• Is your Father and/or Mother is in the US? If you answer, yes, you will be asked what their status is in the US? Citizen, Permanent Resident, Non-immigrant, or you don’t know.
• Immediate relative (spouse, fiancé, child, or sibling in the US.) – enter their names, your relationship with them, and their status
• Other relatives in the US

Present Work / Education / Training Information

• Primary occupation
• Company or School Name
• Address, your start date and monthly income in Local Currency
• If you are unemployed or a student, you may click “Does Not Apply” on Monthly income
• Work Description

Security and Background

Answer Yes or No. If you answer “Yes,” you must put in an explanation. Though it doesn’t mean if you answered “Yes,” you will be denied a visa, but you need to explain properly or have an interview at the consular office.

STEP 5: Upload your Photo. The cropping tool will help you in the dimensions.

• There’s a cropping tool to help you
• Colored and recently taken (3 months) with white background
• Full face with a neutral expression
• Normal clothing and no headwear (except if you are a religious person or need to wear it every day)
• No eyeglasses

Bring a 5cm x 5cm photo (the same as the one you uploaded) on your interview.

STEP 6: Double-check your application.

STEP 7: Sign, submit, and go to confirmation to complete the process.

STEP 8: Print or e-mail the confirmation page and bring it during the interview. You can use the barcode to make an appointment.

I hope you can successfully apply for a USA Visa. Should you need help in your application, we offer a Visa Application Bundle that can let you have a one-on-one call to go through your documents and prepare you for the interview. We wish you the best of luck!

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3 thoughts on “ How To Fill Up the DS160 Form Online [USA Tourist Visa Application Form] ”

Hi i follow u on facbok i want i prepare file with u any schgen country orbany other i already two time refuse usa embecy.but i am from pakistan how can i take help u for my file thanks

Hello question po about DS-160. I have completed the form and gotten my confirmation page. But I later realized that I failed to include my middle name in the Given Name field.

Can I fill out a new DS-160 form and use that instead? Will they not question the two DS-160 forms I submmitted online? (Note: This is for renewal and I have not yet entered my details in their login site where we input the DS-160 and Payment Receipt Number) .

Thank you in advance for your reply.

Question regarding sa DS160

Im working and at the same time nagmamasters ako.

sa DS 160 hindi ko maenter both yung work at school ko.

Pag ang present work ko nilalagay wala ng option para dun sa school ko now. Previous school ko na lang ang pwede ko ideclare sa DS160.

Pag yung school ko naman ang ilalagay ko. Walang option para ilagay yung present employer.

COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER: Many of the articles on Two Monkeys Travel Group are guest posts by a number of Approved Contributors and are hosted by Two Monkeys Travel Group. Approved Contributors control their own work and post freely to our site. This includes all text and images that they use within their own work. All contributors are instructed to follow internationally recognised copyright and intellectual property guidelines. Two Monkeys Travel Group takes its own responsibilities very seriously, so if you feel that any part of this work is abusive in any way, please send us an email so that we can investigate - [email protected]

DISCLOSURE: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links. So when you make a purchase we sometimes make a small commission, at no extra cost to you. The cost to you remains the same, sometimes even cheaper if we have negotiated a special deal for our readers.We use all of the companies we have listed here and that’s why they are in this list, but of course we need to keep Two Monkeys Travel Group running as well as it can, which is exactly what you’re helping with if you do decide to buy or book something through an affiliate link! If you have any more questions about the companies we use or any other companies you’re looking at, just email us and we’ll be happy to help. Please see our full disclaimer page for more information.

Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

Theme Parks of Quintana Roo: Xcaret, Xel-Há, and Xplor

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Visa Application Process

Here’s the high-level process for applying for a nonimmigrant visa to come to the US:

• Schedule an appointment
• Pay the appropriate application fee(s)
• Prepare your documentation and materials
• Complete a short personal interview with a consular officer

Additional details about the process, as well as recommendations and tips throughout the application cycle, are outlined below.

Apply early

The visa application process can take considerable time. Potential delays include limited availability for appointment scheduling, incomplete documentation, administrative processing requirements, and the need to reapply after an initial visa denial.

We recommend beginning the visa application process  at least two to three months in advance  of your intended travel. If you need specific documentation from the University before applying for the visa, work with your department as early as possible to allow for in-house processing.

Consider where to apply

Recommendation: apply in your home country.

We recommend that you apply in your home country, as those officers will be aware of any regional documentation practices and other considerations.

The United States also recommends you apply for a visa in your home country. Immigration regulations require that “an alien applying for a nonimmigrant visa shall make application at a consular office having jurisdiction over the alien’s place of residence” [22 CFR § 41.101(a)(1)]. Regulations also allow visa applications at any other US consulate where the applicant is physically present and which accepts applications from “ Third Country Nationals. ”

What to do if applying outside your home country

Many US consulates accept these types of nonimmigrant visa applications. However, it’s more difficult for a consular official outside your home country to evaluate your application, especially your ties to a residence abroad and nonimmigrant intent .

Don’t attempt this type of application without first speaking to an ISO advisor to evaluate your risk.  Contact ISO for an advisor appointment.

Documentation: Starting the application process

The US Department of State is responsible for all visa applications. To start the process, you will need to complete the  DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form . You will be asked to provide:

• Information from your passport
• Notes about your previous US travel history
• Details related to your intended activities in the United States

Besides the application form, the specific documents you need to demonstrate eligibility will depend on your requested visa category . Some applicants need to provide additional information about their financial ability to support their activities in the United States and their plans to return home.

If you’re applying for a University-sponsored visa category, you’ll need specific documentation from the University to complete this form, such as the F-1 (Form I-20), J-1 (Form DS-2019), or H-1B  (Forms I-129 and I-797). Visit the Visa Categories page to learn more.

A digital photograph must also be uploaded with the application.

Scheduling the visa appointment

Once you have completed the DS-160 online, you’ll be able to pay the required application fee. Reminder to F-1 and J-1 applicants: You need to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee before scheduling your visa interview.

After that, you’ll contact your local US consulate or embassy that has jurisdiction over your residence or physical presence to schedule the visa appointment.

Visa interview process

The visa interview is typically short, often as little as two to three minutes.

It helps to have your documentation organized in advance, though the consular officers generally only ask for certain documents and may not review all that you have prepared. For a detailed list of documents you may need during your visa appointment, visit our Visa Categories page .

The consular officer uses the interview to determine if you’re eligible for the visa category you have requested. For applicants required to demonstrate nonimmigrant intent , the officer will also consider whether you have sufficient ties to your home country to suggest that you’ll return home after completing your program or planned activities in the United States.

You’ll be notified at the end of the interview whether the visa is approved or denied. In some cases, the visa may be approved subject to administrative processing, which can delay the visa issuance for several weeks. For more information, visit our Visa Application Decisions page .

Additional interview tips

Adapted from  NAFSA: 10 Points to Remember When Applying for a Visa

General advice

Consular officers are under considerable pressure to conduct a quick and efficient interview since there are so many applicants to be seen. In general, they can allow for only 2 to 3 minutes per interview and must make a decision during that time. As a result, the initial impression you create is very important, so be sure to keep your answers short and specific.

Anticipate that the visa interview will be conducted in English, not in your native language. It may be helpful to practice English conversation with a native speaker before the interview, but do not prepare a speech.

It is also important that you speak for yourself; the officer wants to interview you, not a family member. If you are attending an English Language program at the University, be ready to explain why knowledge of English will be useful to you in your home country.

Under US law, all applicants for non-immigrant visas are viewed as intending immigrants unless they can convince the consular officer that they are not. You must therefore be able to show that you have reasons for returning to your home country that are stronger than those for remaining in the United States.

“Ties” to your home country are the things that bind you to your current place of residence (examples include a job, family, financial prospects that you own or will inherit, investments, etc.). You may be asked about your specific intentions or promise of future employment, family or other relationships, educational objectives, grades, long-range plans, and career prospects in your home country.

Each person’s situation is different, and there is no magic explanation or single document, certificate or letter that can guarantee visa issuance.

Don’t engage the consular official in an argument. If you are denied a visa, ask the officer for a list of documents he or she would suggest you bring in order to overcome the refusal, and obtain in writing an explanation of the reason you were denied.

It should be clear, at a glance, to the consular officer what written documents you are presenting and what they signify. Lengthy written explanations cannot be quickly read or evaluated, especially during such a short interview. Remember to bring original versions of all supporting documents, if available, with you to the appointment.

If you’re receiving funding from the University of Rochester, your home university, your employer, or from the government, be prepared to present the appropriate letters or documents which verify this funding.

If your financial support comes from personal or family funds, bank statements alone are seldom considered credible enough evidence to demonstrate sufficient finances. Only when coupled with highly credible documentation that can substantiate the source (such as job contracts, letters from an employer, tax documents, pay stubs, or deposit slips) will a bank statement be accepted. Bank statements are most credible if they are a series of reliable computer-generated ordinary monthly bank account statements.

Student-specific advice

Be familiar with the academic program to which you have been admitted and how it fits into your career plans. You should be able to explain how studying in the US relates to your future professional career, focusing on how you will use such skills when you return home.

Your main purpose for coming to the US is to study, not for the chance to work before or after graduation. While many students may work part-time during their studies, such employment is incidental to the main purpose of completing their US education. You must be able to clearly articulate your plan to return home at the end of your program.

If your spouse is also applying for an accompanying F-2 visa, be aware that F-2 dependents cannot, under any circumstances, be employed in the US. If asked, be prepared to address what your spouse intends to do with his or her time while in the US. Volunteer work and taking a class for recreational study are permitted activities. F-2 spouses are not allowed to begin a program of study or take classes to count towards a program of study.

If your spouse and children are remaining behind in your country, be prepared to address how they will support themselves in your absence. If the consular officer gains the impression that your family members will need you to remit money from the US in order to support them, your student visa will almost certainly be denied. If your family does decide to join you at a later time, it is helpful to have them apply at the same post where you applied for your visa.

Please note: Indicating that your spouse will remain at home while you study in the US is not likely to convince the consulate that you do not intend to immigrate. Other evidence will be needed.

Applicants from countries suffering economic problems or from countries where many students have remained in the US as immigrants often have more difficulty getting visas. They are also more likely to be asked about job opportunities at home after their study in the United States.

Citizens of Canada are not required to obtain a US visa to enter the United States. However, an officer of the US Immigration Service will inspect your papers either at a pre-inspection site in Canada or upon entry to the United States. You must have with you proof of Canadian citizenship, proof of admission to the University of Rochester, your University of Rochester Certificate of Eligibility, and proof of financial support that corresponds to the information on your I-20 or DS-2019. It is essential that you enter the United States in the appropriate status, so be sure to have complete documentation with you.

Visa category-specific guidance

There may be specific processes and nuances relative to your specific visa category. Visit our Visa Categories page to compare statuses and requirements, and to find additional details relevant to your situation.

Compare visa categories

Related resources

Visa application decisions

Nonimmigrant intent

Review visa categories and specific guidance

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Form DS-160 Information

On this page:

Guidelines for Completing the Form DS-160

More information.

Each applicant, including children, must have their own Form DS-160 visa application. The Form DS-160 must be completed and submitted online prior to your interview at the U.S. Embassy. The barcode number on the Form DS-160 confirmation page is required in order to book your interview. The Form DS-160 must be submitted online. The U.S. Embassy will not accept handwritten or typed applications and you will not be permitted to attend your interview without a Form DS-160 confirmation page.

When you sign your DS-160 electronically, you are certifying that all the information contained in it is true and correct. Misrepresenting any facts could render you ineligible to enter the United States. Please double-check that all your answers are accurate and that every question is answered completely.

Note:  Any inquiries on completing the DS-160 can be addressed on the following website . We are unable to answer any questions or provide guidance on this process.

Complete and submit your Form DS-160 after reviewing the nonimmigrant visa application process . You must submit your DS-160 application online prior to making an appointment for an interview at the U.S. Embassy.

• The Embassy you select at the beginning of the Form DS-160 must be the same Embassy where you schedule your interview appointment.
• All questions must be answered in English using English-language characters only, except when you are asked to provide your full name in your native alphabet.
• You are required to upload a photograph taken within the last six months as a part of the DS-160 process. Detailed guidelines for taking and submitting a quality photograph are on the U.S. Department of State website here .
• If you stop working on this application for more than 20 minutes, your session will expire. You will have to start over, unless you have recorded your Application ID Number or have saved your application to a file on your computer. Write down the Application ID displayed on the top right-hand corner of the page. If you need to close the browser before submitting your application, you will need this Application ID to continue your application.
• The completed Form DS-160 application form will generate an alpha-numeric barcode confirmation page. Print this page. The printed confirmation page is required for the interview at the Embassy.
• Once you have printed the barcode confirmation page, hit the "Back" button on your web browser and then email yourself a backup copy of the DS-160. The emailed file will be in PDF format, which requires Adobe Acrobat to view or print.
• A new DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form and associated barcode must be submitted with each and every new visa application. A DS-160 and barcode from a prior visa interview or drop-off service will be rejected and result in a delay of your visa application.

Any inquiries on completing the DS-160 can be addressed on the following website . We are unable to answer any questions or provide guidance on this process.The Form DS-160 is online here .

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What is a K-1 US visa?

THIS is the fiancé(e) non-immigrant visa for the foreign-citizen fiancé(e) of a United States (US) citizen. The K-1 visa permits the foreign-citizen fiancé(e) to travel to the United States and marry his or her US citizen sponsor within 90 days of arrival. The foreign citizen will then apply for adjustment of status to a permanent resident (LPR) with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

My petition is already approved, what happens next?

After USCIS approves the petition, it is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will mail you a letter when it sends your fiancé(e) case to the US Embassy in Kingston. Once you receive this letter, inform your fiancé(e) to take the actions to apply for a K-1 visa and prepare for the interview.

Children under age 21 may apply for K-2 visas along with the K-1 parent.

What documents are required?

Read carefully the letter you receive from the NVC, or check https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/nonimmigrant-visa-for-a-fiance-k-1.html#1

Do I need to fill out an application form?

Yes, as a K-1 applicant you need to fill out the DS-160 application form at https://ceac.state.gov/GenNIV/Default.aspx . You must do the same for any K-2 applicant children.

Do I need to upload documents electronically before my interview at the embassy?

No. K-1 applicants must bring all documents to their interview.

Do I need a medical exam?

Yes. Schedule your medical exam with our panel physician at https://amhosp.org/usmedical/ . You should complete your medical exam two weeks before your interview appointment at the embassy, to ensure we have your result in time. Make sure to bring to your medical appointment 1) your original passport, 2) your vaccination records, 3) your appointment letter, and 4) complete Andrews Memorial Hospital’s intake form ahead of time, found on their website https://amhosp.org/usmedical/ . The panel physician will send your medical exam result directly to the embassy.

Documents required to prove relationship with US citizen

In general, the foreign-citizen fiancé(e) and US citizen sponsor must have met in person within the past two years. Chances are, before and after meeting in person, you corresponded or even visited each other more than once. You should upload to your DS-160 application, plus bring to your interview, all documents to prove that you have a genuine relationship. Please note that you must bring any documents hard copy to your interview appointment, as we are prohibited from plugging devices (such as USBs) into our computers, and you will not be allowed to enter the waiting room with your cellphone. Examples include but are not limited to:

• Photos of you and your fiancé(e) together during different trips.

• Proof of travel to visit each other (flight itineraries, boarding passes, etc)

• Printouts of e-mail and WhatsApp correspondence over time.

• Cards sent to each other to celebrate events (birthdays, etc).

• Money transfer receipts; and birth certificates for any mutual children.

How do I schedule my K-1 interview appointment?

You must create an account and schedule your appointment at http://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-jm/iv/ . Using this website is also required because once your visa is issued, you will pick up the visa at the Document Service Center.

You can find more information about how to travel to the United States on our website, https://jm.usembassy.gov/ and the website of our authorised service provider for nonimmigrant and fiancé (K1) visa scheduling at https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-jm/niv . For detailed information on the K-1 visa process, visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/nonimmigrant-visa-for-a-fiance-k-1.html . For immigrant visa delivery, https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-jm/iv/ . Keep on top of Embassy news on our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/pages/US-Embassy-Jamaica and by following @USEmbassyJA on X (formerly Twitter).

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A simple guide to applying for a u.s. visa in nigeria using the new service provider.

On August 26, 2024, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos officially transitioned to a new visa services provider . This change affects how U.S. visa applications are managed for Nigerians applying to travel to the United States.

In July 2024, the U.S. Embassy announced its planned transition to the new visa services provider, advising applicants with interviews scheduled before August 26, 2024, to continue using the old system.

Applicants with interviews on or after August 26, 2024, were instructed to visit the new visa services website from that date onward to create a new account.

Attention Nigerian Visa Applicants! The U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos are moving to a new visa services provider on August 26, 2024. Here’s what you need to know: Interviews on or before August 16, 2024: No action needed. Continue using… — U.S. Mission Nigeria (@USinNigeria) July 31, 2024

In this article, we have curated a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the new website and apply for your U.S. visa.

What you should know

The new service provider is easy to navigate. Once you visit the landing page, you will see the nonimmigrant and immigrant visa tabs. These two tabs contain most information that you need to apply.

Under the “nonimmigrant” tab, intending travellers for business or pleasure can find an overview of the process: visa fees, visa types, and more. It’s important to note that Nigeria and Nigerians are not part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), so a visa is required for your visit.

In the immigrant visa section, prospective immigrants can find an overview of the application process: visa types, prices, and other important information for spouses and family visas.

It is important to note that Nigerians are no longer eligible for the Diversity Visa Lottery. Only individuals born outside of Nigeria or with parents born outside of Nigeria are eligible for the Diversity Visa. If you were born in Nigeria to Nigerian-born parents, you are not eligible for the visa lottery.

Read also: Ministry of Interior, Immigration Service launches digital portal for passport booking, renewal, visa others

A detailed step-by-step guide to the application process

A. nonimmigrant u.s. visa application process.

The nonimmigrant visa is intended for those travelling to the United States for business, tourism, or other temporary purposes. Here’s how to navigate the new visa application process:

1. Determine Your Visa Type

• Identify the visa type that suits the purpose of your visit to the United States. The Visa Wizard on the U.S. government webpage can further assist in choosing the right visa type.

2. Submit Your Visa Application Form DS-160

• Complete the DS-160 form on the U.S. Government website. Each applicant, including minors, must have their own DS-160 form completed before starting the scheduling process. Enquiries about completing the DS-160 form should be directed to the DS-160 FAQs.

3. Create or Sign In to Your User Account

• After completing the DS-160 form, visit the new visa services website to create an account and continue the application process. If you already have an account, log in.

4. Complete your details and pay the MRV fee

• In your scheduling profile, click on “Create New” in “My Dashboard.” Select the country of application and visa type, enter your details, add dependents if applicable, select a delivery option (if available), and pay the visa fee.

5. Schedule your visa interview appointment

• Once the payment is confirmed, your account will display available appointments or the Interview Waiver Confirmation if you qualify for the mail-in procedure. You must select the most convenient appointment date and time, and confirm your scheduling.

6. Attend Your Visa Interview Appointment or Submit Your Application by Mail

• Gather the necessary documents based on your visa type and attend the visa interview as scheduled, or if eligible, submit your application by mail following the instructions provided in the Interview Waiver confirmation.

7. Retrieve Your Documents

• Once your visa is processed, you will receive your documents through the chosen delivery option. You can track the delivery status of your passport by logging into your user account on the website. Upon receiving your passport, please make sure all the information on the visa is correct. If you find any errors, refer to the instructions on the FAQ page to address them.

B. Immigrant Visa Process

Immigrant visas are for those seeking to move to the United States permanently, whether for family, employment, or other reasons. Nigerian citizens and residents can apply for immigrant visas at the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos.

1. Submit the Immigrant Visa Petition or Register for the Diversity Visa Program

• The petitioner submits the immigrant visa petition to USCIS. You can track the status of your petition on the USCIS website using your 13-digit receipt number. For the Diversity Visa Program, you should submit your application electronically on the E-DV website and use the Entrant Status Check to keep track of your application status.

2. NVC/KCC Case Processing

• After USCIS approves your petition, it is transferred to the National Visa Centre (NVC) for pre-processing. The Diversity Visa (DV) program is administered by the Kentucky Consular Centre (KCC). Follow the instructions provided by NVC or KCC carefully.

3. Prepare for the Interview

• Please follow the instructions from NVC or KCC to pay fees, gather the required documents, and schedule a medical examination with an approved physician. Make sure to have all the necessary documents, including medical reports, police reports, and affidavits of support, prepared and ready to present at the interview.

4. Register the Delivery Option

• After receiving an appointment letter or email from NVC, KCC, or the U.S. Consulate, register on the new website to confirm your appointment and register the delivery option for your documents. Log in to your profile, confirm the appointment or reschedule it, enter your details, and select a delivery option.

5. Attend Your Visa Interview Appointment

• Attend the interview as scheduled. Petitioners are not permitted to accompany the beneficiary to the consulate for the interview. However, one family member with a valid ID may accompany minors or disabled beneficiaries. Translators are available for non-English speakers.

6. Retrieve Your Documents

• If your visa is granted, your passport and visa will be ready for pickup approximately 10 business days after the interview. Track the delivery status of your passport through your user account. Please verify the accuracy of the visa details once they are received.

If you need additional information on the visa application process, please refer to the FAQ page for updates.

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How to get an E-2 visa for the USA: step-by-step guide

Foreign investors that want to reside in the US and operate the business through their investment can apply with a U.S.-based entity for an E-2 visa . However, applying for this visa can be a tough and complicated process. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you a step-by-step submission process from checking your eligibility to preparing for the visa interview so that with all knowledge in hand, you can submit an application form of E-2 Visa successfully.

1. Introduction to the E-2 visa

The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa enables treaty traders and investors to enter into the U.S. for developing, directing, or controlling an enterprise in which they invest a substantial amount of capital. While the E-2 Visa has no set minimum investment requirement as some other visas do, enough must be invested to enable independent operation of the enterprise.

Key benefits of the E-2 visa

There are key advantages to the E-2 visa category, making it an excellent option for investors seeking to live and work in the United States. Some of the greatest benefits include:

• Renewable status: An E-2 visa may be renewed provided a business is still operating and meeting all requirements.
• Family inclusion: Dependents of the investor may accompany the principal holder of the E-2 visa: spouse and unmarried children under 21. The spouse can apply for work authorization, and children are able to enroll in schools.
• Flexibility: An E-2 visa holder can travel in and out of the U.S. as many times as they wish. Given that there is no requirement for continuous residence in the United States, an immigrant won’t need to continuously live in the country . To clarify, this is a case where legal advice may be of good value, but an investor visa attorney is not mandatory required for maintaining your visa status.

2. Determining eligibility

There are some basic eligibility requirements that an E-2 Visa applicant must meet before going into any application process. These include:

• Nationality: The applicant must be the national of a country having commerce and navigation treaty with the United States. Check out the list of countries eligible for an Australian student visa; although it includes many nations, major territories like China and India are omitted.
• Invest in a U.S. business: The applicant must have made, or be about to make, a significant investment in business. It needs to be a large enough investment that if the business was successful, you should make $100,000+, though this obviously varies depending on the type of biz.
• Ownership and control: The investor must either own at least 50% of the business or control operations (for example, through a management role or other corporate mechanisms).
• Business purpose: The company should be a lawful business entity and also an authentic existing industrial or commercial enterprise. Speculative or inactive investments do not qualify.
• Job creation: While the business generally does not have to create jobs, and is definitely higher than those for an EB-5 Visa application.

3. Preparing your application

If you have been eligible, then the next thing is to apply. This includes assembling all necessary types of documentation, completing forms in the proper manner, and verifying that your investment qualifies under USCIS guidelines.

Key documents needed:

• DS-160: online non-immigrant visa application for all statuses.
• DS-156E: used solely for E visa candidates.
• Nationality: Passport and documents that establish you are a national of a treaty country.
• Proof of investment: Bank statements, contracts and other relevant financial documents that demonstrate you have the current or planned funds to invest.
• A business plan that describes the proposed venture, including its purpose; market analysis; financial projections; and capacity to create new jobs.
• Please provide any evidence of ownership such as documents to demonstrate you are an owner or, at a minimum, that you control the business by more than 50% .
• Proof of employees: Items such as payroll records or employee contracts that demonstrate you will employ US workers.

Takeaways for preparing your application

• Step 1: Collect required documents. Get all docs and make sure they are current and true.
• Step 2: Form DS-160 and Form DS-156E. These forms must be filled in online, on which, you will receive a confirmation page with barcode that are to taken along for your visa interview.
• Step 3: Get application fee. A non-refundable fee has to be paid for the application process, the fee varies a little bit by country, but is $205 in most cases.
• After paying the fee…​ Step 4: Schedule your visa interview. The U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country schedules a visa interview for you after receiving payment of this fee step.

4. Completing the paperwork: Petition and papers

Petitioning is amongst the most crucial steps in your E-2 Visa application. That is where you upload all the evidence that states your qualifications and investment credibility.

Steps to file your petition

• Step 1: Submit Form I-129 (If in the U.S.): If you are already within the United States and wish to change/build upon your status via an E2 visa, you will need to submit a completed Form I–129 “Petition for Non immigrant Worker” with USCIS. This application changes the status without having to leave the country.
• Step 2: Form DS-160 and DS-156E (If Abroad). If outside the U.S. you will file for a form to apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
• Step 3: Attach Supporting Documents You must attach all the evidence with your petition like investment receipts, company ownership proof and business plan. If you want these documents processed, make sure they are sorted and labelled so that the process can be facilitated.
• Step 4: Submit filing fee Payment for any separate fees that must be processed as part of your request. In these cases, the fee amount can change depending on whether you file your request in the U.S. or at a consulate abroad.

5. The visa interview process

The next and final step in the process is to go for a visa interview after you have submitted your petition. This is an interview that will happen in your home country, at the U.S. embassy or consulate, and it’s a crucial step to see whether you can get approved for a visa with a successful result or not.

The interview process

During your interview for the E-2 visa , the consular officer will carefully review your application and supporting documentation. Be prepared to answer questions about the nature of your investment in a business in the United States, the type of business you will conduct, and your intentions while in the United States. He/she will likely question you about your intent to develop and direct the enterprise in the U.S., and about your willingness and ability to depart the United States upon expiration or termination of E-2 status. Remember to have with you all the original documents of the business plan and proof of capital investment during the interview, alongside other supportive material that could be requested by the officer for verification of information given in your application.

Tips for a successful interview

Attend your E-2 visa interview, and be honest in responding to all questions. Respond to the questions consistently so that the answers will coordinate with what was given in your Application. You need to be quite well-prepared on your business plan regarding market analysis, financial projections, and job creation targets. In addition, let all the documents required for this interview be original, since failure to produce these papers leads to delays or sometimes denial of a visa application.

6. The Most common application mistakes

The E-2 Visa application process is complex and calls for attention to detail, as well a careful preparation. Well, of course, there are mistakes often made:

• Incomplete applications: Complete any left out forms or make sure that none of the required documents are missing. Just One More Thing, Either of these factors can miss you out on bonuses, but the single most significant cause for application delays and denials is incomplete applications.
• Insufficient investment: The key is to invest heavily enough so that your business can succeed. Lack of investment may result in denial for visa.
• Bad business plan: A very general, far-fetched or vague business plan will hurt you more than it can help. Spend time developing a robust and believable business plan.
• Ignoring legal advice: Having help from a good immigration lawyer might mean the difference between getting accepted and being denied, Not a single piece of the process should be taken lightly as ignoring legal advice or trying to do things on your own may lead you down risky territory.

The E-2 visa requires a well-documented and thought-out application process that is more demanding than most visas, which entails extensive documentation and an understanding of the U.S. immigration landscape as well. This step-by-step guide will enable you to maximize your odds of a successful application and provide clarity on how to secure an E-2 visa perspective as quickly as possible. Whether you are a first-time applicant or renewing your status, knowing each step is important for success.

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F-1 student visa 101: your key to studying in the USA

Applying for your F-1 visa is mandatory to travel to the US. Read our step-by-step guide to learn everything about F-1 student visa for the USA, F-1 visa rules, F-1 visa requirements, F-1 status, and more.

If you’re planning to study in the United States, understanding the types of student visas in the USA is crucial. Among them, the F1 visa is the most common for international students.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into everything F1 visa, F1 visa rules, F1 visa requirements and all you need to know to successfully navigate the US student visa process .

Which US student visas are available for international students?

The U.S. offers several types of student visas, depending on the nature of your studies and exchange programs. Here’s a brief overview of each:

1. F-1 visa

F-1 visa (academic students) is the most common visa for students attending a full-time academic or English language program at a U.S. college, university, or other accredited institution. This visa is specifically for academic studies.

2. J-1 visa

J-1 visa (exchange visitor) is for students participating in an exchange program, which might include high school and university study, internships, and professional training programs. The J-1 visa requires sponsorship by a U.S. government-approved organization.

3. M-1 visa

M-1 visa (nonacademic or vocational studies) is designed for students enrolled in vocational or non-academic programs, such as technical courses or other professional training that is not primarily academic.

What is the F-1 visa for the USA?

The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa designed for international students who wish to pursue studies in the United States as full-time students at accredited institutions, including colleges, universities, seminaries, conservatories, academic high schools, and language training programs. The F1 visa is specifically for students pursuing a degree or certificate.

How long can you stay in the USA with an F-1 visa?

Your stay in the U.S. on an F1 visa lasts for the duration of your educational program, plus a 60-day grace period after the completion of your program. The actual length of your stay will depend on your program’s duration , which is specified on your Form I-20 . You must maintain full-time student status to remain in the country.

F-1 visa requirements

To qualify for an F-1 visa , you must meet the following requirements:

Institution certification

You must be accepted into a program at a U.S. school that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). The school must issue you a Form I-20, which is essential for your visa application.

Full-time enrollment

You must enroll as a full-time student in an academic program. Full-time status generally means 12 or more credits per semester for undergraduates or the required full-time course load for graduate students.

English language proficiency

You must demonstrate proficiency in English or be enrolled in courses that will lead to proficiency. Many universities require you to take standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

Sufficient funding

You need to provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses while studying in the U.S. This is typically demonstrated through bank statements, scholarship awards, or a financial guarantee.

Valid passport

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.

Home country residency

You must prove that you have strong ties to your home country and intend to return after completing your studies.

What’s a Form I-20?

The Form I-20 is a document issued by your U.S. educational institution that confirms your acceptance and provides important details about your program and funding. This form is essential for paying your SEVIS fee, applying for the F1 visa, and entering the U.S.

How to apply for an F-1 visa

Applying for an F1 visa involves several steps, which you must complete to get your visa.

1. Get accepted and get your I-20

First, you need to be accepted into an SEVP-certified school. Once accepted, the school will issue you a Form I-20 , which you’ll need to begin your visa application.

2. Pay your SEVIS fee

The SEVIS fee is a mandatory payment that funds the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). You must pay this fee before you apply for your visa.

3. Complete your DS-160 visa application

The DS-160 is an online visa application form that you must fill out and submit. After submitting it, you’ll receive a confirmation page with a barcode, which you’ll need for your visa interview.

4. Schedule your visa interview

Once you’ve completed the DS-160, schedule your visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The waiting times for interviews can vary, so it’s important to book early.

5. Attend your visa interview

Prepare for your interview by gathering all the necessary documents, including your Form I-20 , DS-160 confirmation page, passport, and financial evidence.

F-1 visa interview: What to expect at your visa interview

During your F-1 visa interview , the consular officer will ask questions to determine your eligibility. They might ask about your academic background, reasons for studying in the U.S., plans after graduation, and financial situation.

You can expect the following questions during your visa interview:

• Why did you choose this university or program?
• How do you plan to finance your education?
• What are your career plans after graduation?
• Do you have any relatives in the U.S.?

What happens if your F-1 visa is denied?

Visa denials can happen if the consular officer believes you don’t meet the requirements or if they suspect that you intend to immigrate permanently. Common reasons for denial include insufficient financial resources, lack of ties to your home country, or inadequate preparation for the interview.

Maintaining F-1 visa status

Once you’ve received your F-1 visa and arrived in the U.S., it’s crucial to maintain your status by following these guidelines:

When entering the USA:

• Present your Form I-20, F1 visa, and passport to the immigration officer.
• Make sure your Form I-20 is stamped and returned to you.

While studying in the USA:

• Maintain full-time enrollment each semester.
• Report any change of address or school to your Designated School Official (DSO) and update your SEVIS record.
• Refrain from doing unauthorized work or dropping below a full course load without permission.

Does an F-1 visa allow you to work?

Yes, F-1 visa holders can work in the U.S. under certain conditions. On-campus employment is allowed for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks. You may also be eligible for off-campus work through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).

How many years can you work in the USA with an F-1 visa?

You can work in the U.S. on an F-1 visa for the duration of your study program. After completing your studies, you may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows you to work for up to 12 months (or 24 months for STEM graduates). This period is separate from your study duration.

By understanding the F-1 visa requirements , you can successfully navigate the US study visa process and take the first steps toward your academic journey in the United States.

This article is for informational purposes only.

Please reach out to content @housinganywhere.com if you have any suggestions or questions about the content on this page. For legal advice or help with specific situations, we recommend you contact the appropriate authorities.

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