A guide to the US DS-160 form: information needed, the photo, common mistakes that delay applications, and next steps.
The DS-160 is the online form every US visitor visa applicant must complete. The consular officer reads it before your interview, so accuracy is essential.
Prepare before you start
- Passport and previous US visas, if any.
- Travel dates and address in the US.
- Work and education history.
- A recent photo that meets US requirements.
- Details of family members and previous travel.
Common mistakes
- Spelling names differently from the passport.
- Inconsistent dates of employment or travel.
- Leaving out previous refusals.
- Losing the application ID and starting over.
After the form
- Print or save the confirmation page with the barcode.
- Pay the fee and schedule your interview.
- Bring the confirmation to the interview.
