The DS-160 form creates the foundation of your visa application process. Many people struggle with filling out this form. The system will log you out after 5-10 minutes if you don't stay active, and you might lose your progress. You might also face browser issues if you're not using Chrome on a laptop.
Your Application ID becomes available right after you start. Make sure you write it down, you'll need it to access your application later if something goes wrong. Getting your documents ready beforehand makes everything smoother. Once you submit and complete your interview, processing usually takes about 5 days.
This detailed guide takes you through every part of the DS-160 form. We cover everything from personal details to travel history and point out common mistakes. These step-by-step instructions help you fill out your application with confidence. This applies whether you need a USA tourist visa, USA work visa, or you're joining programs like Camp America (which uses program number P-4-04208).
The DS-160, officially known as the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, is required for all temporary travel to the United States. This form is the foundation of your nonimmigrant visa application process. Consular officers review the information you provide on the DS-160 and conduct a personal interview to determine your visa eligibility.
The U.S. Department of State created this online system to make procedures simpler for applicants. This electronic application now replaces several paper forms. You can file the DS-160 online without any charge, and you don't need intermediaries to complete it.
The DS-160 form is mandatory for all nonimmigrant visa applicants from the United Kingdom. This requirement applies to:
The US Embassy in London or the Consulate in Belfast typically processes applications from UK residents. Each visitor must submit their own DS-160 form, including children. A third party can help applicants aged 16 or younger or those physically unable to complete the form, but they must identify themselves at the end.
The DS-160 form takes about 90 minutes to complete according to U.S. government estimates. Starting your application at least 48 hours before your visa interview appointment is ideal. This gives you enough time to gather all information and handle any technical issues.
Incorrect applications can delay your visa process. Take enough time to fill out the form accurately. The system lets you save your application on your computer's hard drive and finish it later, making this vital first step more manageable.
You need to understand what the DS-160 form is before starting your application. The process needs careful attention to several technical details that will help you complete it smoothly.
The Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website is where you'll start your DS-160 application. You must select "United Kingdom" from the dropdown menu as your embassy location. This vital first step will route your application to the correct processing center.
You'll need about 90 minutes to complete the DS-160 application process. Your UK application will go to either the US Embassy in London or the Consulate in Belfast, based on your location.
The DS-160 form has specific technical requirements. The system works with Internet Explorer 11 or higher, Firefox, and Google Chrome 58 or higher. Safari and Microsoft Edge browsers won't work with the application. Your application might face errors or data loss if you use an unsupported browser.
Technical specifications
Your browser needs 128-bit encryption, JavaScript enabled, and Transport Layer Security (TLS) support. A laptop or desktop computer will give you better performance than a mobile device.
Preserving your application information
The Application ID appears in the top right corner when you start. Write it down immediately. This unique identifier is vital - you won't be able to access your partially completed application without it.
Preventing data loss
The system will time out after 20 minutes if you don't use it, and you'll lose unsaved information. Save your work at the end of each page. Your incomplete application stays in the system for 30 days only, so make sure you finish within this time.
Recovery options
Lost your Application ID? Click the "Forgot your Application ID?" link on the retrieval page. You'll need to provide your surname, birth year, and security question answer to get back in.
You need to pay close attention to detail when completing the main sections of your DS-160 form. Let's get into each vital section to help you submit accurately.
Name details: Your surnames must match exactly what appears in your passport. Put the name in the "Surname" field if your passport shows only one name. Write "FNU" (First Name Unknown) in the given names field if your passport doesn't show any.
Identification numbers: Add your National ID Number (Personalausweisnummer for German citizens). Select "Does Not Apply" for Social Security or US Taxpayer ID fields if you haven't worked or paid taxes in the US.
Passport details: Only enter details from your valid current passport. The Passport Book Number (inventory control number) appears in different places depending on your country. Ask your issuing authority if you're not sure where to find it.
Trip purpose: Pick your visa category from the dropdown menu. Your selection will show you additional relevant questions.
Contact information: You must provide both your home address and US accommodation address. The system won't let you leave the US address blank, even if you haven't finalized your plans yet.
Occupation details: Choose your main occupation from the dropdown menu. List your monthly income in local currency if you're hired. Students should write "student" in the duties description.
Work history: Add details about where you work now and your last two employers.
Social media presence: The form needs all social media platforms you've used in the last five years with your usernames/handles. This requirement started on May 31, 2019. Platforms include:
Important: List every identifier you've used on all platforms. Only select "None" if you truly haven't used social media.
SEVIS information: J-1 applicants need to enter their SEVIS ID and Program Number from Form DS-2019.
Training documents: J-1 Trainee and Intern applicants also need Form DS-7002 (check Box 7 on Form DS-2019).
Note that consular officers can't deny visas based on race, religion, ethnicity, or political views.
Your DS-160 form needs a final review before submission. Here's what you need to do next.
Photo specifications You'll need to upload a digital image for your DS-160 that meets specific requirements. The photo must be in JPEG format and should be under 240 kB. Professional visa photo services will give you the best results. You can take the photo yourself if you meet all requirements. The photo must show your natural appearance without digital alterations.
Confirmation evidence The system generates a confirmation page with a barcode after you submit your DS-160. This page becomes your key document for the visa interview. The barcode (starting with AA) should match your appointment booking. The CEAC website lets you get another copy through "Option C - Retrieve Application" using your Application ID if needed.
Scheduling process Your next step is scheduling the interview through the Visa Appointment Service website (). The process involves creating an account, entering your DS-160 confirmation number, and choosing the US Embassy in London as your location.
Essential paperwork Your interview requires these documents:
Interview process The embassy staff will check your security clearance and verify your fingerprints when you arrive. A consular officer reviews your documents and asks about your travel plans during a brief 2-20 minute interview to determine if you qualify for a visa.
After completing the DS-160 form, print the barcode page, schedule a visa interview appointment, and pay the visa application processing fee. Remember to bring the printed barcode page to your interview.
For a US tourist visa application, you should provide bank statements for the last 6 months. Ensure the statements show sufficient balance and are up-to-date and attested.
A B1/B2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows holders to engage in both business (B1) and tourism (B2) activities in the United States. UK citizens can apply for this visa for short-term visits to the US for business or pleasure.
To book a US visa appointment from the UK, visit the Visa Appointment Service website at . Create an account, provide your DS-160 confirmation number, and select your preferred interview location and time.
For your US visa interview, bring your DS-160 confirmation page with barcode, current passport (valid for at least six months beyond your intended US stay), a printed 5x5 cm color photograph, appointment confirmation notice, and any supporting documents relevant to your visa category.
