Frequently asked questions about the DS-160, Nonimmigrant Visa application form.
Where can I find information on the DS-160?
Answers to many questions about the DS-160 are provided on the DS-160 FAQ page of the U.S. State Department.
How long before my appointment should I come to the U.S. Embassy/U.S. Consulate?
You should arrive at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate about 30 minutes before your appointment time.
I am unable to upload the photo. What do I do now?
If you uploaded a photo and it doesn’t meet our standards, or if you were unable to upload a photo, you will still be able to continue without an image. However, you will need to first try uploading any kind of image (.jpg) with less the 240 KB. Once the system refuses its acceptance, you will be able to continue filing out the form without a photo. In this case, please bring in a printed photo meeting the requirements listed at http://travel.state.gov/visa/visaphotoreq/photocomptemplate/photocomptemplate_5330.html. Do not bring a digital photo on CD-Rom or USB stick.
I submitted the DS-160 form. Do I need to schedule an appointment or will one be assigned to me?
You need to schedule an appointment. Information on how to schedule an appointment is available on our appointments page.
I forgot to print out the DS-160 confirmation page. How can I access the confirmation page?
On the DS-160 page https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/ follow the instructions for accessing your application. If you do not have your application number or remember the answer to the security question, you will not be able to retrieve the confirmation page. In this happens, you need to fill out a new DS-160. You will not need to reschedule the appointment, even if the application I.D. changes.
I listed Berlin as the location for submitting my visa application, but now have an appointment in Frankfurt/Munich. Do I need to fill out a new DS-160?
No, usually the data can be accessed at any of the three visa issuing posts.
I have to provide an address in the U.S. where I will be living (tourists, students). I don’t have a place to stay yet. What can I enter if I don’t know where I will be living?
You can enter an address of the U.S. University, exchange organization, company. Tourists can enter the address of the hotel they are planning to stay in or the address of the airport they arrive at.
