The DS-160 is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form required for temporary travel to the United States and for K-1 fiancé(e) visas. It’s an important part of your visa application, and completing it accurately is essential for a successful interview. DS-160 is also referred as “DS-160 number” or “Application ID”. DS-160 number is a 10 digit alpha numeric number and it starts with “AA00”. DS-160 can be found on the U.S. Department of State website. Click on the link here to access the DS-160 form https://ceac.state.gov/GenNIV/Default.aspx.
How can I fill the DS-160?
The first step in the process will be to fill out the DS-160 form online. You must double-check all your answers on the DS-160 form before submitting the DS-160 form online. You must save a copy of your completed application in a PDF format and print a copy of your responses before you submit. After submission you cannot view your answers, the saved copy is essential for referencing before the interview.
Why does the DS-160 form timeout?
The DS-160 form times out due to a security feature that terminates sessions after 20 minutes of inactivity.
Why DS-160 times out your session even if you’re actively filling the form?
DS-160 times out your session even if you spend a lot of time within the application without saving. This can lead to information being lost. It can be annoying to reenter all the lost information.
How long does it take to fill the DS-160?
It takes 1-2 hours to fill the DS-160.
When does DS-160 expire?
The information you save in DS-160 will be in the draft mode. You must retrieve your DS-160 at least once in a given 30 day period otherwise it gets expired.
How long is DS-160 valid for?
After submission of the DS-160, it is valid for 365 days.
Where can I find the DS-160?
DS-160 number is mentioned on the DS-160 confirmation page
Is it required for the DS-160 number mentioned on the DS-160 confirmation page match exactly with DS-160 number mentioned visa appointment confirmation page?
Yes. DS-160 mentioned on the DS-160 confirmation page must exactly match with DS-160 number mentioned on the visa appointment confirmation page. If the numbers do not match then you will not be allowed to proceed with your biometrics (fingerprints) and the visa interview appointment.
Is there a fee to submit the DS-160?
No. There is no fee to submit the DS 160 form.
My DS-160 has expired, can I retrieve my DS-160?
No
Can I edit the DS-160 after the submission?
No
Personal Information
Full name, date of birth, nationality, passport details
Travel Information
Purpose of trip, intended dates, U.S. contact (hotel, friend, company)
U.S. Point of Contact
Name, relationship, address, phone number
Family Information
Parents’ names, spouse details (if applicable)
Work/Education/Training
Employment history, education background
Social media accounts / usernames (New requirement)
Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, Youtube
Security and Background Questions
Questions about criminal history, immigration violations, etc.
After clicking the submit button on the DS-160, you will receive a confirmation page with a bar code.
You must take a printout of the confirmation page as this required for your biometrics (fingerprints) and the visa interview appointment.
