tourist visa application form usa

NONIMMIGRANT

• DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
• DS-1648, Online A, G, or NATO Application
• Check My Visa Application Status
• DS-261, Online Choice of Address and Agent
• Fee Payment
• DS-260, Online Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

How to Fill DS-160 Form for US Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide (with screenshots)

Updated: September 21, 2023

The first step in the US visa application process is to fill DS-160 form online. It’s a lengthy form with several pages and sections, so it can take you a few days to complete.

Before you start the application, go through my comprehensive guide on DS-160 form to understand the technical requirements and the documents needed for filling out the application.

Then, follow along this step-by-step guide to complete your DS-160 form. There are screenshots and instructions to guide you. For each question, there is a comment explaining what exactly needs to be entered.

IMPORTANT The result of your US visa for the most part depends on the information you fill in your DS-160. Pay careful attention to the information you enter in your DS-160. It must be accurate, and honest and must match with what you say during the visa interview. DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT lie in your DS-160. This can lead to visa denial, visa ban, or permanent blacklist.

Table of Contents

Steps to fill ds-160 form, 01. getting started.

To start your DS-160 form, head over to the US Department of State’s Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160) page.

• Select a location where you will be applying for this visa [ Instruction: Select the country where you intend to attend your US visa interview]
• Enter the code as shown [ Instruction : Enter the code shown in the captcha in this field. This is to make sure you are a real human and not a bot]
• This visa application will ask you to upload a digital photo of yourself [ Instruction : If you already have a digital photo for your visa application, click on “Test Photo” to check if your photo meets the specifications. If you don’t have a photo and want to know the photo requirements, click on “Photo Standard Guide”]

NOTE The question “This visa application will ask you to upload a digital photo of yourself” is shown only for certain countries such as Malaysia, the Philippines, etc. If you choose a country such as India, Mexico, etc., this question will not be shown.

After you have entered the above data, you will see 2 buttons –

• START AN APPLICATION [ Instruction : Click this button if you are starting a new application]
• RETRIEVE AN APPLICATION [ Instruction : Click this button if you are retrieving a previously saved application]

Let’s look into these options in detail.

START AN APPLICATION

Click the “START AN APPLICATION” button when you are starting a new DS-160 application. This will create an Application ID, which you must print or make a note of. You will need the Application ID to retrieve your saved DS-160 application.

RETRIEVE AN APPLICATION

Your session times out if you leave your DS-160 form open for too long. If that happens, you can come back to your saved application (saved till the last section) using this option.

You might also need time to gather the information needed to fill DS-160 form. In that case, you can save and come back to your saved application using this option. You would need your DS-160 Application ID to retrieve the saved application.

After you enter the above data and click on “START AN APPLICATION”, you will see the “Application Information” Screen. Your “Application ID” will be displayed here. Print this page. Or take a screenshot or make a note of the DS-160 Application ID. You will need your Application ID to retrieve your saved DS-160 application.

• I AGREE [ Instruction: Check the “I AGREE” box for Computer Fraud and Abuse Act]
• Security Question [ Instruction : Select a security question from the list]
• Answer [ Instruction : Enter the answer for your security question]

IMPORTANT Make a note of your “Application ID”, “Security Question” and “Answer”. The “Security Question and Answer” along with the “Application ID”, “Surname” and “Birth Year” are REQUIRED to retrieve your saved DS-160 visa application. If you forget any of this information, you will not be able to retrieve your saved application. You will have to start over again with a new DS-160 application.

NOTE You will have 30 days to complete a partially saved DS-160 application. These 30 days are calculated from the last time you edited your application. If you do not complete and submit your DS-160 form within 30 days, your application will be deleted and you will have to start over again.

02. Personal

Subsection: personal 1.

• Surnames [ Instruction : Enter your surname from your passport. If you have any accents or special characters in your surname name, enter WITHOUT accents or special characters]
• Given Names [ Instruction : Enter your given name from your passport. If you have any accents or special characters in your given names, enter WITHOUT accents or special characters ]
• Full Name in Native Alphabet [ Instruction : Enter ONLY IF you have accents or non-Latin characters in your name or know how to write your name in your native language. Otherwise, simply check “Does Not Apply/Technology Not Available”. For detailed instructions, check out this article on how to fill Full Name in Native Alphabet ]
• Have you ever used other names (i.e, maiden, religious, professional, alias, etc.)? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” if you have a maiden name, otherwise select “No”]
• Do you have a telecode that represents your name? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” only if you have a Chinese name, otherwise just select “No”. For detailed instructions, read this article on how to fill Telecode name in DS-160 ]
• Sex [ Instruction : Select “Male” or “Female”]
• [Dropdown Options]
• COMMON LAW MARRIAGE
• CIVIL UNION/DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP
• LEGALLY SEPARATED
• Date [ Instruction : Enter your date of birth]
• City [ Instruction : Enter the city where you were born]
• State/Province [ Instruction : Enter the state/province where you were born]
• Country/Region [ Instruction : Enter the country where you were born]

If you have accents or special characters in your name

The “Surnames” and “Given Names” fields DO NOT ALLOW accents or special characters. You must enter your name WITHOUT accents or special characters in the “Surnames” and “Given Names” fields. Use the “Full Name in Native Alphabet” field to enter your full name with accents and special characters.

If you have a middle name on your passport

If you have a middle name in your passport (ex: Philippines passport), you must add your middle name to your given name(s) and enter it in your DS-160 “Given Name”.

Example below.

In your current passport Surname: XXXX Given Names: YYYY ZZZZ Middle Name: AAAA

This is how you will fill in your DS-160 Surname: XXXX Given Names: YYYY ZZZZ AAAA

If your surname in the passport is “blank”

If your surname in the passport is “blank”, use the following format in your DS-160 form.

In your current passport Surname: Given Name: XXXX YYYY

This is how you will fill in your DS-160 Surname: XXXX YYYY Given Name: FNU

Your US visa will be issued with the following name Surname: XXXX YYYY Given Name: FNU

NOTE:  FNU means First Name Unknown.

IMPORTANT:  You must get your passport fixed as soon as you can. It can create all kinds of issues, not only for visa applications but also at the airports. If you move to a foreign country to study or work, you won’t be able to open a bank account, apply for a driving license, etc.

What if your surname or given name is too long

You may be able to enter your Surname and Given Name completely in DS-160 form. But in the US visa, the Surname and Given Name fields have a certain character limit and will be truncated if over the character limit.

Even though your name is truncated in your US visa, it will not pose any problems with US immigration. US border officials are all aware of this and will not ask you any questions. You may be asked by the airline staff if they are not familiar with US visa name character limit.

In your current passport Surname: XXXX Given Name: AAAABBBB CCCCDDDD YYYYZZZZ

This is how you will fill in your DS-160 Surname: XXXX Given Name: AAAABBBB CCCCDDDD YYYYZZZZ

Your US visa will be issued with the following name Surname: XXXX Given Name: AAAABBBB CCCCDDDD YYYY

Subsection: Personal 2

• Country/Region of Origin (Nationality) [ Instruction : Select your country of nationality ]
• Do you hold or have you held any nationality other than the one indicated above on nationality? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” if you have acquired a nationality other than your birth nationality]
• Are you a permanent resident of a country/region other than your country/region of origin (nationality) indicated above? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” if you have acquired permanent residence in a country other than your country of birth]
• National Identification Number [ Instruction : Enter your National Identification Number from your country. If you don’t know, check “Does Not Apply” | ]
• U.S. Social Security Number [ Instruction : Check “Does Not Apply”. Enter your US SSN if you have lived in the US before]
• U.S.Taxpayer ID Number [ Instruction : Check “Does Not Apply”. Enter your US TIN Number if you had/have one]

• FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL (A)
• TEMP. BUSINESS PLEASURE VISITOR (B)
• ALIEN IN TRANSIT (C)
• CNMI WORKER OR INVESTOR (CW/E2C)
• CREWMEMBER (D)
• TREATY TRADER OR INVESTOR (E)
• ACADEMIC OR LANGUAGE STUDENT (F)
• INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION REP./EMP. (G)
• TEMPORARY WORKER (H)
• FOREIGN MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE (I)
• EXCHANGE VISITOR (J)
• FIANCÉ(E) OR SPOUCE OF U.S. CITIZEN (K)
• INTRACOMPANY TRANSFEREE (L)
• VOCATIONAL/NON-ACADEMIC STUDENT (M)
• NATO STAFF (NATO)
• ALIEN WITH EXTRAORDINARY ABILITY (O)
• INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED ALIEN (P)
• CULTURAL EXCHANGE VISITOR (Q)
• RELIGIOUS WORKER (R)
• INFORMANT OR WITNESS (S)
• VICTIM OF TRAFFICKING (T)
• NAFTA PROFESSIONAL (TD/TN)
• VICTIM OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY (U)
• PAROLE BENEFICIARY (PARCIS)
• Specify [ Instruction : Select “BUSINESS & TOURISM (TEMPORARY VISITOR) (B1/B2)”. If you have selected a different visa class, then select the appropriate option here]
• Intended Date of Arrival [ Instruction : Select the approximate date on which you intend to arrive in the US]
• Intended Length of Stay in the U.S. [ Instruction : Select the number of days you intend to spend in the US on this trip]
• Street Address (Line 1)
• Street Address (Line 2) *Optional
• Zip Code (if known)
• OTHER PERSON
• PRESENT EMPLOYER
• EMPLOYER IN THE U.S.
• OTHER COMPANY/ORGANIZATION

PRO TIP For “TEMP. BUSINESS PLEASURE VISITOR (B)”, you will have 3 options to choose from: B1 (Business), B2 (Tourism), and B1/B2 (Business and Tourism). I recommend selecting “B1/B2” even though your purpose might be strictly business or tourism. A US visa is issued for 10 years and you never know when you will need to visit the US for business or when for tourism. “B1/B2” will work for both purposes and will spare you from unnecessary questions at the port of entry.

NOTE Even if you have selected “B1” or “B2” as your choice, the US consulate might still issue “B1/B2”. In very rare cases, they issue a “B1” or a “B2”.

What if you plan to stay in a hotel when you travel to the US, instead of a friend/family/relative?

If you are planning to stay in a hotel, book a refundable or pay-at-check-in hotel . Use that address for the question “Address Where You Will Stay in the U.S.”. Cancel the booking after you receive your visa.

What if you have already booked your flight tickets for your US trip?

If you have already booked your flight and hotel, then you must select “Yes” to the question “Have you made specific travel plans”. You will see some specific questions for your trip. Enter the following information.

• Date of Arrival in the U.S. [ Instruction: Select your exact date of arrival in the US]
• Arrival Flight (if known) [ Instruction: Enter your arrival flight number. Leave it blank if you don’t know ]
• Arrival City [ Instruction: Enter the first city where you will arrive]
• Date of Departure from U.S. [ Instruction: Enter your exact date of departure from the US]
• Departure Flight (if known) [ Instruction: Enter your departure flight number. Leave it blank if you don’t know]
• Departure City [ Instruction: Enter the city where you will depart the US from]
• Provide the locations you plan to visit in the U.S. [ Instruction: Enter the list of cities or places you plan to visit as part of your US trip. If you have more than one city, use the “Add Another” button to add more]

06. Travel Companions

Persons traveling with you

• Are there other persons traveling with you? [ Instruction : Select “No” if you will be traveling by yourself. Select “Yes” if you will be traveling with family/friends and provide details]
• Are you traveling as part of a group or organization? [ Instruction : Select “No” if you will be traveling with family/friends. Select “Yes” only if you will be traveling with a group on an organized group tour]
• Surnames of Person Traveling With You [ Instruction : Enter the surname of the person (family member/relative/friend/etc.) traveling with you]
• Given Names of Person Traveling With You [ Instruction : Enter the given names of the person (family member/relative/friend/etc.) traveling with you]
• OTHER RELATIVE
• BUSINESS ASSOCIATE
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option if you have more than one person (family member/relative/friend/etc.) traveling with you]

07. Previous U.S. Travel

• Have you ever been in the U.S.? [ Instruction : Select “No” if you have NEVER been in the US. Select “Yes” if you have traveled to the US before and enter the below details]
• Date Arrived [ Instruction : Enter your previous date of arrival in the US]
• Length of Stay [ Instruction : Enter the number of days or months of your previous stay in the US]
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option if you have been in the US multiple times. You can enter up to 5 previous visits to the US]
• Do you or did you ever hold a U.S. Driver’s License? [ Instruction : Select “No” if you have not lived in the US before. If you have a US driver’s license, select “Yes” and enter your existing/expired US driver’s license details below]
• Driver’s License Number [ Instruction : Enter your US driver’s license number. If you don’t remember, just check “Do Not Know”]
• State of Driver’s License [ Instruction : Select the “State” that issued your driver’s license]
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option if you had/have more than one US driver’s license]
• Have you ever been issued a U.S. Visa? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” if you have been issued a U.S. visa before and enter your old visa details]
• Date Last Visa was Issued [ Instruction : Enter the date of issue of your previous US visa]
• Visa Number [ Instruction : Enter the visa number (printed in RED on your visa sticker) of your previous US visa]
• Are you applying for the same type of visa? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” if applying for the same visa type, ex: B1/B2. Otherwise, select “No”]
• Are you applying in the same country or location where the visa above was issued, and is this country or location your place of principal of residence? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” if applying in the same location as your previous US visa and is also your current country of residence. Otherwise, select “No”]
• Have you been ten-printed? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” if your fingerprints were captured (all 10 fingers) during the interview of your previous US visa. Otherwise, select “No”]
• Has your U.S. Visa ever been lost or stolen? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if any of your old US visas were lost or stolen]
• Has your U.S. Visa ever been cancelled or revoked? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if any of your old US visas were cancelled or revoked]
• (If answered “Yes” to the above question) Explain [ Instruction : Provide the details of your visa refusal or denial of entry]
• (If answered “Yes” to the above question) Explain [ Instruction : Provide the details of your old/existing I-140 such as the priority date and receipt number]

NOTE If you have been in the US before but do not remember the exact dates, you can look up your previous US travel history on the US Customs and Border Protection website. For calculating “Length of Stay”, you can use the Date and Time’s Days Calculator .

03. Address and Phone

Home Address

• Street Address (Line 1) [ Instruction : Enter your home address in the following fields]
• State/Province
• Postal Zone/Zip Code
• Country/Region

Mailing Address

• Is your Mailing Address the same as your Home Address? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” if your home and mailing addresses are the same. Otherwise, select “No” and enter your mailing address]
• Primary Phone Number [ Instruction : Enter your cell phone number where the consulate can reach you if needed]
• Secondary Phone Number [ Instruction : Enter your home phone number where the consulate can call you if your cell phone is not reachable. If you don’t have one, just check “Does Not Apply”]
• Work Phone Number [ Instruction : Enter your work phone number where the consulate can call you if your cell/home phones are not reachable. If you don’t have one, just check “Does Not Apply”]
• (If you have answered “Yes” to the above question) Additional Phone Number [ Instruction: Enter the additional phone number that you have used in the last five years. If you have more than one, click on the “Add Another” button to add more]
• Email Address
• Email Address [ Instruction : Enter your email address where the consulate can email you if needed]
• (If you have answered “Yes” to the above question) Additional Email Address [ Instruction : Enter the additional email address that you have used in the last five years. If you have more than one, click on the “Add Another” button to add more]

Social Media

• TENCENT WEIBO
• VKONTAKTE (VK)
• Social Media Identifier [ Instruction : Enter the username or handle of the social media platform]
• Add Another [ Instruction: If you use or used more than one social media platform, click the “Add Another” button to add more]
• Do you wish to provide information about your presence on any other websites or applications you have used within the last five years to create or share content (photos, videos, status updates, etc.)? [ Instruction: Select “Yes” if you use a social media platform that was not listed in the above question, ex: Tiktok. Otherwise, select “No”. Messaging services such as WhatsApp do not count as social media, so DO NOT enter such services here]
• Additional Social Media Platform [ Instruction: Enter the social media platform name, ex: Tiktok]
• Additional Social Media Handle [ Instruction: Enter the social media platform username or handle, ex: @myhandle]

04. Passport

• Passport/Travel Document Number [ Instruction : Enter your passport number]
• Passport Book Number [ Instruction : Just check “Does Not Apply”]
• Country/Authority that Issued Passport/Travel Document [ Instruction : Select your country of passport]
• City [ Instruction : Enter the place of issue from your passport. If you can’t find the place of issue on your passport, just enter the city where your passport was issued ]
• State/Province *If shown on passport [ Instruction : Enter state/province of issue from your passport. If the state/province of issue is not on your passport, leave this field blank]
• Country/Region [ Instruction : Select the country where your passport was issued]
• Issuance Date [ Instruction : Select the date of issue from your passport]
• Expiration Date [ Instruction : Select the date of expiration from your passport]
• Have you ever lost a passport or had one stolen? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you have ever lost your passport or stolen]
• Passport/Travel Document Number [ Instruction : Enter the passport number of the passport that was lost or stolen]
• Country/Authority that Issued Passport/Travel Document [ Instruction : Enter the country of the passport that was lost or stolen]
• Explain [ Instruction: Explain how your passport was lost or stolen]
• Add Another [ Instruction: If you had multiple incidents of lost or stolen passports, click on the “Add Another” button to enter more]

08. U.S. Contact

Contact Person or Organization in the United States

• Surnames [ Instruction : Enter the surname of your contact person in the US]
• Given Names [ Instruction : Enter the given name of your contact person in the US]
• Organization Name [ Instruction : Enter the name of the organization you know or will be visiting in the US. If you will not be visiting any, you can enter your hotel name or just check “Do Not Know”]
• SCHOOL OFFICIAL
• U.S. Street Address (Line 1)
• U.S. Street Address (Line 2) *Optional
• Phone Number

NOTE For “Contact Person or Organization in the United States”, you would need to enter AT LEAST one, either a “Contact Person” or an “Organization”. If you don’t know anyone who can vouch for you, I recommend entering the hotel where you will be staying.

Subsection: Relatives

Father’s Full Name and Date of Birth

• Surnames [ Instruction : Enter your father’s surname. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• Given Names [ Instruction : Enter your father’s given name. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• Date of Birth [ Instruction : Enter your father’s date of birth. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• U.S. Citizen [ Instruction: Use this option if your father is a US citizen, meaning holding a US passport]
• U.S. LEGAL PERMANENT RESIDENT (LPR) [ Instruction: Use this option if your father holds a US Green card]
• NONIMMIGRANT [ Instruction: Use this option if your father is on a nonimmigrant visa such as B, H, L, F, J]
• OTHER/I DON’T KNOW [ Instruction: Use this option if you don’t know his status in the US]

Mother’s Full Name and Date of Birth

• Surnames [ Instruction : Enter your mother’s surname. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• Given Names [ Instruction : Enter your mother’s given name. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• Date of Birth [ Instruction : Enter your mother’s date of birth. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• U.S. Citizen [ Instruction: Use this option if your mother is a US citizen, meaning holding a US passport]
• U.S. LEGAL PERMANENT RESIDENT (LPR) [ Instruction: Use this option if your mother holds a US Green card]
• NONIMMIGRANT [ Instruction: Use this option if your mother is on a nonimmigrant visa such as B, H, L, F, J]
• OTHER/I DON’T KNOW [ Instruction: Use this option if you don’t know her status in the US]
• (If you have answered “Yes” to the above question) Provide the following information:
• Surnames [ Instruction: Enter your immediate relative’s (spouse, son, daughter or sibling) surname]
• Given Names [ Instruction: Enter your immediate relative’s (spouse, son, daughter or sibling) given names ]
• FIANCÉ/FIANCÉÉ
• U.S. Citizen [ Instruction: Use this option if they are a US citizen, meaning holding a US passport]
• U.S. LEGAL PERMANENT RESIDENT (LPR) [ Instruction: Use this option if they hold US Green card]
• NONIMMIGRANT [ Instruction: Use this option if they are on a nonimmigrant visa such as B, H, L, F, J]
• OTHER/I DON’T KNOW [ Instruction: Use this option if you don’t know their status]
• Do you have any other relatives in the United States? [ Comment: Select “No”. Select “Yes” if you have any relatives such as grandparents, in-laws, uncles, aunts, cousins, etc. in the US and enter their details below]

NOTE For “Other Relatives”, select “Yes” only if you have relatives that you keep in touch with regularly and they know that you will be visiting the US soon.

Subsection: Spouse

Spouse’s Full Name and Date of Birth (include Maiden Name)

• Spouse’s Surnames [ Instruction : Enter your spouse’s surname]
• Spouse’s Given Names [ Instruction : Enter your spouse’s given name]
• Spouse’s Date of Birth [ Instruction : Select your spouse’s date of birth]
• Spouse’s Country/Region of Origin (Nationality) [ Instruction : Select your spouse’s country of nationality]
• City [ Instruction : Enter your spouse’s city of birth]
• Country/Region [ Instruction : Enter your spouse’s country of birth]
• SAME AS HOME ADDRESS
• SAME AS MAILING ADDRESS
• SAME AS U.S. CONTACT ADDRESS
• DO NOT KNOW
• OTHER (SPECIFY ADDRESS)

NOTE The “Spouse” section is only available if you have selected “MARRIED” as the “Marital Status” in “02. Personal” above.

10. Work / Education / Training

Subsection: present.

• AGRICULTURE
• ARTIST/PERFORMER
• COMMUNICATIONS
• COMPUTER SCIENCE
• CULINARY/FOOD SERVICES
• ENGINEERING
• LEGAL PROFESSION
• MEDICAL/HEALTH
• NATURAL SCIENCE
• NOT EMPLOYED
• PHYSICAL SCIENCES
• RELIGIOUS VACATION
• SOCIAL SERVICES
• Explain [ Instruction: This “Explain” box is shown only if you select “UNEMPLOYED” or “OTHER” for the above question. If you are unemployed, explain why you are unemployed. If you select “OTHER”, specify your occupation, such as Journalism, Marketing, etc.]
• Present Employer or School Name [ Instruction : Enter your current employer name (if employed) or university/college name (if student) or business name (if owns a business)]
• Start Date [ Instruction : Select the start date of your current job or school curriculum or business]
• Monthly Income in Local Currency (if employed) [ Instruction : Enter the monthly income you make from your current job or business. Check “Does Not Apply” if you are a student or retired]
• Briefly describe your duties: [ Instruction : Write a brief list of duties performed at your current employer or business]

Subsection: Previous

IMPORTANT Subsections “Previous” (previous work and education) and “Additional” (languages and travel history) are only asked for (1) all male applicants and (2) all applicants (male and female) from countries considered as questionable. Therefore, if you are a female applicant and you do not see these sections, it means you are not required to fill those sections. It’s normal, no need to worry.

• Were you previously employed? [ Instruction: Select “Yes” if you have a previous employer and enter the details below. Select “No” if your current job is your first job or you are a student]
• Employer Name
• Employer Street Address (Line1)
• Employer Street Address (Line 2) *Optional
• Supervisor’s Surname [ Instruction: If you don’t remember or know your supervisor back then, just check “Do Not Know”]
• Supervisor’s Given Names [ Instruction: If you don’t remember or know your supervisor back then, just check “Do Not Know” ]
• Employment Date From
• Employment Date To
• Briefly describe your duties:
• Add Another [ Instruction: If you have more than one previous employment, use this option to add more. You can add up to 2 previous employments]
• Have you attended any educational institutions at a secondary level or above? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” and enter your educational background below]
• Name of Institution
• Course of Study [ Instruction : Enter your course of study or degree]
• Date of Attendance From [ Instruction : Enter your university/school course start date]
• Date of Attendance To [ Instruction : Enter your university/school course end date]
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option to enter details if you have multiple degrees or a master’s degree]

NOTE Enter your educational background starting from the highest education to high school (or higher secondary).

Subsection: Additional

• Do you belong to a clan or tribe? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” if you belong to a recognized clan or tribe and enter the details]
• Language Name [ Instruction : Enter the language that you speak]
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option to add more languages that you speak]
• Country/Region [ Instruction : Enter the name of the country you have traveled to previously]
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option to add more countries that you have traveled]
• Have you belonged to, contributed to, or worked for any professional, social, or charitable organization? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you are affiliated with a professional (IEEE, ACM, Bar Association, etc.) or charitable (Red Cross, MSF) group and enter the names of those organizations]
• Do you have any specialized skills or training, such as firearms, explosives, nuclear, biological, or chemical experience? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you were trained in using firearms, etc]
• Have you ever served in the military? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you have served/serving in the military]
• Have you ever served in, been a member of, or been involved with a paramilitary unit, vigilante unit, rebel group, guerrilla group, or insurgent organization? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you have been involved in any of those groups and enter the details below]

Provide a List of Languages You Speak For the question “Provide a List of Languages You Speak”, enter all languages that you speak, even if you speak at a beginner level.

Provide a List of Countries/Regions Visited For the question “Provide a List of Countries/Regions Visited”, enter all countries you have traveled to so far including your country of residence (if it’s not your country of passport). Exclude the US (if you have traveled to the US before), your country of passport and any country that you have merely passed through on a layover/transit.

11. Security and Background

Subsection: part 1.

• Do you have a communicable disease of public health significance? (Communicable diseases of public significance include chancroid, gonorrhea, granuloma inguinale, infectious leprosy, lymphogranuloma venereum, infectious stage syphilis, active tuberculosis, and other diseases as determined by the Department of Health and Human Services.) [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you have any of those diseases]
• Do you have a mental or physical disorder that poses or is likely to pose a threat to the safety or welfare of yourself or others? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you have a mental or physical disorder]
• Are you or have you ever been a drug abuser or addict? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you were a drug abuser or addict]

Subsection: Part 2

• Have you ever been arrested or convicted for any offense or crime, even though subject of a pardon, amnesty, or other similar action? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever violated, or engaged in a conspiracy to violate, any law relating to controlled substances? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Are you coming to the United States to engage in prostitution or unlawful commercialized vice or have you been engaged in prostitution or procuring prostitutes within the past 10 years? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever been involved in, or do you seek to engage in, money laundering? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever committed or conspired to commit a human trafficking offense in the United States or outside the United States? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you knowingly aided, abetted, assisted or colluded with an individual who has committed or conspired to commit a severe human trafficking offense in the United States or outside the United States? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Are you the spouse, son, or daughter of an individual who has committed or conspired to commit a human trafficking offense in the United States or outside the United States and have you within the last five years, knowingly benefited from the trafficking activities? [ Instruction : Select “No”]

Subsection: Part 3

• Do you seek to engage in espionage, sabotage, export control violations, or any other illegal activity while in the United States? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Do you seek to engage in terrorist activities while in the United States or have you ever engaged in terrorist activities? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever or do you intend to provide financial assistance or other support to terrorists or terrorist organizations? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Are you a member or representative of a terrorist organization? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Are you the spouse, son, or daughter of an individual who has engaged in terrorist activity, including providing financial assistance or other support to terrorists or terrorist organizations, in the last five years? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever ordered, incited, committed, assisted, or otherwise participated in genocide? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever committed, ordered, incited, assisted, or otherwise participated in torture? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you committed, ordered, incited, assisted, or otherwise participated in extrajudicial killings, political killings, or other acts of violence? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever engaged in the recruitment or the use of child soldiers? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you, while serving as a government official, been responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever been directly involved in the establishment or enforcement of population controls forcing a woman to undergo an abortion against her free choice or a man or a woman to undergo sterilization against his or her free will? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever been directly involved in the coercive transplantation of human organs or bodily tissue? [ Instruction : Select “No”]

Subsection: Part 4

• Have you ever sought to obtain or assist others to obtain a visa, entry into the United States, or any other United States immigration benefit by fraud or willful misrepresentation or other unlawful means? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever been removed or deported from any country? [ Instruction : Select “No”]

Subsection: Part 5

• Have you ever withheld custody of a U.S. citizen child outside the United States from a person granted legal custody by a U.S. court? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you voted in the United States in violation of any law or regulation? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever renounced United States citizenship for the purpose of avoiding taxation? [ Instruction : Select “No”]

This section may not be available if applying from certain countries such as India, Mexico, etc. In such countries, photos are typically captured along with fingerprints by the visa application center or the consulate on the day of the visa interview appointment.

Subsection: Upload Photo

In the “Upload Photo” section, upload a passport-size digital photo.

NOTE If you have uploaded and tested your photo in the “01. Getting Started” section, you will be taken directly to the “Confirm Photo” section.

NOTE You may sometimes see an “ Error: There was a missing or invalid parameter in the request ” while uploading the photo. If you see this error, try again after a few minutes. If it’s a weekend, try again on a weekday, especially during US working hours. This is a technical issue and nothing wrong with your photo. Their technical team will be notified by the system and they will fix it.

Subsection: Confirm Photo

In the “Confirm Photo” section, you will see a preview of the photo you have uploaded. If you are satisfied with your photo, click on “Next: REVIEW”. Otherwise, click on “Choose a Different Photo” to upload a different photo.

In this section, you will review all the data you have entered so far. You will click on each of the following 7 subsections to review for accuracy and any mistakes in the data you have entered.

Subsection: Personal/Address/Phone/Passport

Review the entered information in “Personal/Address/Phone/Passport”

• Personal Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in personal information, click on “Edit Personal Information” to fix the errors]
• Address and Phone Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in address and phone information, click on “Edit Address and Phone Information” to fix the errors]
• Passport/Travel Document Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in passport/travel document information, click on “Edit Passport/Travel Document Information” to fix the errors]

Subsection: Travel

Review the entered information in “Travel”

• Travel Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in travel information, click on “Edit Travel Information” to fix the errors]
• Travel Companions Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in travel companions information, click on “Edit Travel Companions Information” to fix the errors]
• Previous U.S. Travel Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in previous US travel information, click on “Edit Previous U.S. Travel Information” to fix the errors]

Subsection: U.S. Contact

Review the entered information in “U.S. Contact”

• U.S. Point of Contact Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in US point of contact information, click on “Edit U.S. Point of Contact Information” to fix the errors]

Subsection: Family

Review the entered information in “Family”

• Family Information: Relatives [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in relatives information, click on “Edit Family Information: Relatives” to fix the errors]
• Family Information: Spouse [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in spouse information, click on “Edit Family Information: Spouse” to fix the errors]

Subsection: Work/Education/Training

Review the entered information in “Work/Education/Training”

• Present Work Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in present work information, click on “Edit Present Work Information” to fix the errors]
• Previous Work Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in previous work information, click on “Edit Previous Work Information” to fix the errors]
• Additional Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in additional information, click on “Edit Additional Information” to fix the errors]

Subsection: Security and Background

Review the entered information in “Security and Background”

• Part 1 [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in part 1, click on “Edit Part 1” to fix the errors]
• Part 2 [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in part 2, click on “Edit Part 2” to fix the errors]
• Part 3 [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in part 3, click on “Edit Part 3” to fix the errors]
• Part 4 [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in part 4, click on “Edit Part 4” to fix the errors]
• Part 5 [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in part 5, click on “Edit Part 5” to fix the errors]

Subsection: Location

Review the entered information in “Location”

• Location [ Instruction : If you have made a mistake in selecting the location for your visa interview, click on “Edit Location Information” to select a different location]

14. Sign and Submit

Preparer of Application

• Did anyone assist you in filling out this application? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” ONLY if a travel agent completed your application on your behalf]

E-Signature

• Enter your Passport/Travel Document Number: [ Instruction : Enter your passport number]
• Enter the code as shown: [ Instruction : Enter the code shown in the captcha]

After entering the above information, click on “Sign and Submit Application” to electronically sign and submit your DS-160.

IMPORTANT Once you click on “Sign and Submit Application”, you cannot make any more changes to your DS-160. If you notice any errors, then you have to fill out a new application altogether. So, make sure all your information is correct and error-free before clicking on “Sign and Submit Application”.

After you click on “Sign and Submit Application”, the following confirmation is displayed.

“You have successfully signed and submitted your application. You cannot make any changes to your application at this point. Please click ‘Next: Confirmation’ to complete the application process”

Click on the “Next: Confirmation” button to view and print your DS-160 confirmation.

15. Confirmation

On this page, confirmation of your DS-160 will be displayed. You will see 3 options –

• Print Confirmation [ Instruction : Click this button to print DS-160 confirmation. A print of your DS-160 confirmation is required to attend your US visa interview]
• Print Application [ Instruction : Click this button to print a copy of DS-160 itself. This is for your records only. You do not need a DS-160 print for your interview]
• Email Confirmation [ Instruction : Click this button to email DS-160 confirmation. You can also print this DS-160 confirmation from your email later]

Print DS-160 confirmation from this screen on an A4 or letter-size paper. If not, at least save it as a PDF so you will have a copy. Email a copy to yourself as well so you can print it later if needed.

Also, print a copy of your DS-160 to PDF so you will have a copy of that too. Later down the line if you are applying/renewing the visa, you can upload this PDF to pre-populate the DS-160 form for you. It would save a ton of time.

WHAT’S NEXT?

After you complete and submit your DS-160, the next step would be to pay the MRV fee and schedule your US visa interview. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide on how to schedule US visa interview .

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How to edit an already submitted DS-160 form?

Editing an already submitted DS-160 form is not possible. You will have to fill out a new DS-160 form. But you can retrieve your already submitted DS-160 form to pre-populate the information in your new DS-160 form. Follow the below steps.

– Go to the US Department of State’s  Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160)  page – Click on “Retrieve an Application” – You will be asked whether you want to view the confirmation page or start a new application – Select “Start a new application” – Enter your Application ID – Submit

A new DS-160 form will be started with the information from your previous DS-160 form. Make necessary updates and submit the form. A confirmation page with a new bar code will be displayed. Print and use this new DS-160 confirmation page for your US visa appointment. Discard the old confirmation page.

If applying as a family, does everyone in the family need to submit a separate DS-160 form?

Yes. If you are applying US visas for the entire family, everyone in your family must submit a separate DS-160 form. Follow the below steps for completing DS-160 forms for everyone in the family.

1) Start your (primary applicant) DS-160 form first. Add your family members as your travel companions. 2) After submitting your DS-160 form, on the “thank you” page, you will be given the option to create the remaining DS-160 forms for your family members. 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’ DS-160 forms. This saves time and helps to avoid making mistakes.

How to contact the National Visa Center if you have technical issues with DS-160

If you are facing any technical issues with your DS-160 form, you can contact the National Visa Center for help. Keep in mind that this is a phone-only help and you will have to call a US phone number. You can find the phone number on the US Department of State’s US Visas Contacts page.

That’s it, folks! Follow this step-by-step guide to fill DS-160 form for your US visa. If you have any questions or stuck at any step, reach out to me via social media or email.

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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869 Comments

September 19, 2022 at 4:12 am

Hello Thirumal Sir, our son is currently studying at Northeastern University Boston and staying at the university dorm. I and my spouse are applying for a B1/B2 visa – mainly a tourist visa to travel to Boston USA in the future. 1) Would there be an invitation letter required from my son for we parents to visit Boston? 2) We plan to stay at a friend’s place during this visit or maybe book a hotel close to the university to stay, while my son continues to stay at the university dorm during our stay in Boston. From a smoothness of visa interview perspective, would it be good to state in DS-160 mentioning the name of a hotel and staying in the hotel closer to the university (which is not booked yet, too early to book till the visa interview gets over?) or stay in friend’s house? 3) If we specify a friend’s house to stay in, should the invitation letter from our son specify the residence of our friend for we parent’s stay, though our son’s own residence address is that of a university dorm? Thank you in advance.

Thirumal Motati says

September 26, 2022 at 4:25 am

Hi Nitin! 1) Invitation letter is not necessary but you would need to carry a copy of his university details, his I20, his US visa, his passport and his birth certificate to the interview. (2) I suggest using the hotel address that way you don’t have to talk about your friend in the US. No need to book the hotel now but if asked you can always explain that you plan to stay at this hotel when you travel. (3) I suggest using a hotel address instead of your friend’s address. The less complicated the better it is.

October 8, 2022 at 6:11 am

Hey thirumal, 1. We as a family applying for us tourist visa for my elder son aged 27 he has his own business and rental income what should I say in his DS-160 who is paying for his trip 2. My younger son is in the university in India and he gets rental income. So should I mention monthly income in his DS-160 form? 3. We have given us point of contact a friend will it be better to show we are staying with them or a hotel?

October 10, 2022 at 2:43 am

Hi Hanif! 1. Yes. If he has his own income, you can mention that in his DS-160. You can also mention that he is paying for himself for the trip. 2. Same for your younger son as well since he has his own income. 3. Either one is fine but if you do not know this friend well, use a hotel. If you go ahead with this friend, expect questions in your interview on how you know this friend, how long you have been friends for, etc.

July 15, 2022 at 8:03 am

Hello, please I need to know what to choose in the primary occupation. I am from Nigeria and applying for an F-1 visa. I am currently not employed but have done some previous menial jobs after my university graduation. Now I do have my personal business: I make and sell shoes, I am also a music producer, and have my personal music studio. Please what do you advise?

July 15, 2022 at 12:05 pm

Hi Ola! If your shoe business and music studio are registered as businesses, then you can select “BUSINESS” as your primary occupation. If they are not registered as businesses, then pick one. Making and selling shoes will be self-employment, so you will select OTHER and mention what you do. For music, it depends. If you purely produce music, again it would be OTHER, but if you are also an artist, then it would be ARTIST/PERFORMER.

MOHAMMED ZUBAIR says

July 14, 2022 at 8:16 pm

Hi, Thank you so much for the detailed explanation. I have two questions-

Q1: My question is that I don’t have a surname in the passport and just have a given name. As mentioned in the article can I enter the given name as surname and then leave the given name as FNU. E.g. (In Passport) Surname: Given Name: AAAA (In DS-160) Surname: AAAA Given Name: FNU

Can you please confirm on this?

Q2: I have two sons. My 1st son has the same issue as he doesn’t have a surname and has one given name which includes my name at end of his given name but my 2nd son has my name as surname and also his given name.

So in this case I will follow the process you mentioned in this article for my 1st son. Also, will there be an issue in granting visa as my 1st son doesn’t have a surname but my 2nd son does have a surname? Awaiting your kind response.

July 15, 2022 at 12:15 pm

Hi Mohammed! Q1: Yes, you will enter your given name as surname and leave the given name as FNU (just like the example you gave). Q2: Yes, it applies to your 1st son too since he doesn’t have a surname. Not having a surname in the passport will not affect your or your son’s visa results. But it can cause issues at the border when entering the US or any other country. If you all claim to be one family and if your 2nd son has a different surname, you might be questioned. As a backup, carry their birth certificates when you travel.

Karen Ordoñez says

May 30, 2022 at 5:38 am

Hi, thanks for this post, this is really helping me with the process, but I have a question. Have you ever served in the military? In this part, my father was police until 2008 in our country, so he needs to put yes in this part? Thanks.

May 31, 2022 at 8:03 am

Hi Karen! I believe that question is specific to serving in the military and not in the police force. So I think he should answer NO to that question.

June 2, 2022 at 4:13 pm

Why do I get a blank page when I click “next” after work/education/training information when completing my DS-160? Thank you.

June 3, 2022 at 10:29 am

Hi Ramon! Not sure what exactly the issue is. You should be taken to the next page, but if it’s not, then it could be a technical issue or an issue with your browser. Try in another browser and see if it works.

March 30, 2022 at 8:49 am

Hi Thirumal! I just finished filling out my DS-160 form till the confirmation page. I just realized that I only filled one language on the ‘list of the language I speak’, my own country language, forgot to add English. Do you think it will affect things? Thank you!

March 31, 2022 at 4:43 am

Hi Eka! It won’t affect your visa result, but it’s necessary to not leave out any information. Just edit your DS-160, add English this time and submit. It will generate a new confirmation page. Use this new DS-160 confirmation number to schedule your visa appointment.

Hemavati says

June 23, 2022 at 10:15 pm

Hey Thirumal, thank you for such insightful blog! I have a quick question.

If ‘Have you travelled to any other country from India in the past 5 years?’ is selected as NO during the time of DS-160 form. However, 1 week prior to the US student visa interview, I plan to go on a trip to Maldives with friends for few days. Will that create an issue leading to falsification of data? Ideally during the time of submission I had not travelling to any other country, however prior to the interview I do go to Maldives. (This is in regards to US student Visa interview). Kindly advise as I’m skeptical of being rejected.

June 27, 2022 at 9:58 am

Hi Hemavati! It’s shouldn’t an issue. But if you are worries, you can fill a new DS-160 including Maldives in it and carry that new DS-160 confirmation along with the old one with you to the interview. Give the new DS-160 confirmation to your visa officer and mention that you have filled a new DS-160 since you have more travel history now. This is perfectly normal and allowed.

March 7, 2022 at 7:56 am

Hi Thirumal, I know the forum says to ask questions specifically about tourist visas, but I have been searching for an answer everywhere with no success. So I am posting my question here just in case I get any leads.

I am filling out my DS-160 for MS in the USA, and it asks for all the education credentials that I have done in the past. Last year I started a part-time distance education PG diploma which will be completed in May this year. Now, I have not mentioned this diploma while applying to the universities, neither it has any worth. So I am in doubt if can I keep this diploma omitted from the DS-160 form, or if I do not add it, will they already know that I have a part-time education going on? Also even though I have successfully completed the first semester of it, but the university is not issuing the mark sheets and it’s been over a year. So I can’t even prove that I am going through the PG diploma with success and good grades.

I am not hiding this information for some bad intention, but I don’t want to complicate my profile and then regret it later. Please help and suggest what should be done.

March 14, 2022 at 3:47 am

Hi Ken! You must disclose all information, otherwise, the visa officers might use it against you as “hiding” information. But from what you have mentioned, you or the university pretty much abandoned the diploma. So I don’t see the need to mention it.

March 3, 2022 at 2:51 am

[Are you applying for the same type of visa?]

I previously had L1B visa and now I’m applying for L1A visa. Should I answer yes or no to this question?

March 14, 2022 at 7:48 am

Hi Freda! Unfortunately, I’m not sure about this question. Usually, visa types are immigrant and non-immigrant, whereas H1, L1, B, etc are visa categories.

November 21, 2021 at 9:02 pm

Hi, I have filled out the DS-160 for my cousin and her family with their assistance and I am going to do the last step of sign and submit as well after confirmation of the data by them. Should I select “Yes” in preparer of the application and add my details and state relation as a relative? Or is it supposed to be checked as yes only in the case of travel agents or agencies?

November 22, 2021 at 5:41 pm

Hi SV! I think it’s meant for travel agents and sponsors. If you are merely helping a relative and the relative is reviewing/confirming the final application, you don’t need to mention yourself as a preparer.

Adrienne says

September 26, 2021 at 1:55 pm

Hi Thirumal! I have a few questions about the renewal of my B1/B2 US Visa.

1. I’m now unemployed so can I still renew my US Visa? My dad and brother will also be renewing with me together but I’m the only one unemployed.

2. DS-160 form online has a question – “Have you traveled to other countries in the last 5 years?” and I want to answer Japan 2015. It’s already been 6 years so can I still answer with year?

September 29, 2021 at 8:09 am

Hi Adrienne! 1. Yes. Being unemployed does not affect your visa renewal result. You have a US visa, you have never misused it and you are renewing it, so you being unemployed at this movement will not affect your renewal. 2. No. You can only mention your travel history from the last 5 years. But the visa officers will notice any previous travel history from your passport. Also, traveler history prior to 5 years is not that relevant in renewal cases.

December 15, 2021 at 3:34 pm

Hi Thirumal! Thank you for replying to my questions. Your post said “Excluding US and Home Country” about travel history in the last 5 years. I travelled to the US last 2017 but can’t I mention the US in the DS Form-160? I just want to make sure only. Thank you!

December 18, 2021 at 10:30 am

Hi Adrienne! Previous US travel is section 07 whereas travel history is section 10. You will mention any previous US travels in the section “07. Previous U.S. Travel” for the question “Have you ever been in the U.S.?”. Therefore, no need to repeat it again in “10. Work / Education / Training” for the question “Have you traveled to any countries/regions within the last five years?”. For this question, you can mention any countries other than the US and home country.

June 28, 2021 at 6:50 am

Beneficiary US address change!

The I-129f petition my fiance and I filed lists a different address for where he will be residing now as I, the petitioner, have moved. He has already completed his interview and been approved, but the London embassy is saying there is nothing they can do and said to tell the officers at the port of entry. Will this address be used for anything for the beneficiary, or will they ask about where he will be living at the port of entry, or will they deny him for the difference? We cannot find any information online about how to change that prior to his move, and we don’t want to risk not receiving information based on this address. Has anyone been in this situation? Any and all advice is much appreciated.

June 29, 2021 at 9:48 am

Hi Tatum! My experience and knowledge are only in tourist visas. I don’t know much about I-129f, so I won’t be able to give an accurate answer to your situation. I suggest referring to this K1 visa website and asking your questions there.

December 28, 2020 at 4:38 am

Hello, I’m currently living in the USA on a CR1 visa. I had a temporary 2-year green card and have applied for adjustment of status and my application is currently pending. My parents are applying for a B1/B2 visa. If they are adding me as an immediate relative, how would they answer this question “Do you have any immediate relatives, not including parents, in the United States? “What would the relative status be? Would I be considered a US legal permanent resident or non-immigrant?

Thirumal says

January 8, 2021 at 9:30 am

Hi Kat! I apologize for the delay in answering your question. I suggest mentioning that you are a US legal permanent resident since you have a green card and you have applied for the adjustment of status already. I know your adjustment of status is pending but the other option “non-immigrant” does not apply to you as your current status CR1 visa is also an “immigrant” visa.

October 30, 2020 at 6:09 pm

Hi, helpful information! I have a question about the “Date last visa was issued”. I’m renewing my B1/B2 visa, but in the interim time, I held an L1A visa. Since the L1A visa was the last visa I got issued, should I fill that question with this visa information regardless I’m attempting to renew the B1/B2?

November 2, 2020 at 4:09 am

Hi Oscar! That’s correct! Your L1A visa is your most recent US visa. So, you will answer that question with your L1A visa information. It won’t affect your B1/B2 renewal in any way. In fact, you will answer B1/B2 renewal specific questions while scheduling your visa appointment (or document dropbox) on US Travel Docs.

Akosua says

October 10, 2020 at 1:51 pm

Hello Thirumal, I am Akosua Boatemaah. I have been refused 3 times with B1/B2 visa and also Canadian student visa twice. My last refusal for USA B1/B2 visa was on February 2020. I was going on the same opportunity I had. An agriculturist in the USA wrote me an invitation to visit her at her farm.

But this time, I have gotten another opportunity in a university in the USA but though I am done with my first degree here in Ghana, I got this opportunity to study Agriculture as an undergraduate student. I am so interested in this because I got a scholarship too. They do not offer masters but its only an undergraduate school.

I was able to convince the registrar to prepare my I-20 in such a way that I want to come and complete there in the USA as a transfer student. And it has been done and the I-20 is ready.

I want to know how I can project my case to the VO since I am done with my first degree here in Ghana but I still want to go in for an undergraduate program in the USA. And also want to know my chances. Hope to hear from you soon. Thank you!

October 12, 2020 at 4:28 am

Hi Akosua! Previous visa refusals remain on the records and they will affect your future visas. But, your circumstances are also different this time since you are applying for student visa. When it comes to convincing the VO on your decision pursuing another undergrad degree, only you know the answer better. If an undergrad degree from the US will benefit you and your country, it’s not that difficult to convince the VO.

Your main obstacle would be to prove your strong ties with Ghana and your intention to return promptly after you graduate. Your previous US and Canada visas were probably denied based on lack of strong ties with Ghana. So, you have to first work on building strong ties with your country before attempting for another US visa. This could be strengthening your family ties, economic ties, travel history, etc.

September 10, 2020 at 11:34 am

Hi, I have a question in DS-160 there is a question, please give a list of employers in the last 5 years what should I write, as I was not employed in the last 5 years? I have worked in a US university as a graduate teaching assistant from 2012-2013. Do I need to mention that? Please let me know.

September 11, 2020 at 4:28 am

Hi Sg! Technically, you don’t have to since it was beyond the last 5 years. I don’t know if the application will allow you to select dates past 5 years. But if it does, I suggest entering your teaching assistant job from 2012-2013, instead of leaving your “previous work” information blank. More information is always better than no information. P.S. I apologize for my previous answer as I did not see the years properly.

September 8, 2020 at 4:31 pm

Hi, I am filling up my DS-160 form, I have work experience in the USA from 2012-2013. Do I need to enter that information, since I was working in the USA? Please let me know. Thanks.

September 9, 2020 at 7:46 am

Hi Sg! Yes, you have to enter your work experience from the USA as well in your DS-160. You have to mention all your previous work experience, even if you held a job in a foreign country. Don’t worry, this information will not be used against you and will not affect your visa result.

lovejot kaur says

August 18, 2020 at 6:51 pm

Hello, I am applying US visa for my parents. In Additional Work/Education/Training Information, what should I say to the question – Have you ever served in the military? Because my dad is a retired army man from India. He retired in 2008.

August 19, 2020 at 3:19 am

Hi Lovejot! You will have to say “Yes” to that question since your dad served in the army. But don’t worry, this information will not affect his visa result. Not disclosing some information can be used against the applicant, so you will have to disclose every piece of information.

February 4, 2020 at 2:24 am

Hi All, I need urgent clarification, in Section 7 Previous U.S. Travel – Are you applying in the same country or location where the visa above was issued and is this country or location your place of principal of residence?.

I am an Indian citizen working in Singapore since 6 years not PR on a work visa and pay taxes in Singapore. I already have a B1/B2 visa issued in Singapore and now I am applying for H1B visa and would be attending a visa interview at Singapore.

What am I supposed to answer for the above question? Am I principle resident of Singapore or India? Should the answer be Yes or No?

February 6, 2020 at 12:44 pm

Hi BM! You must answer “Yes” to the above question. Your principal of residence (or country of residence) is Singapore since you’re on a work visa. Also, you are applying for your US visa at the same location (Singapore) as your previous visa. So, your answer must be “Yes”.

Rajesh says

September 25, 2021 at 3:29 am

Hi BM, may I know what happened to your H1B Visa interview? If possible, could you please share your experience? Thanks a lot.

Czasel Bonifacio says

February 2, 2020 at 4:14 pm

Hi! I will be applying for the US visa with my husband and 2 kids as my dependents. Do I need to fill up DS-160 for my husband? My kids’ ages are 13 and 7. Thank you very much!

February 6, 2020 at 12:53 pm

Hi Czasel! Yes, you have to fill DS-160 forms for each of your dependents. Start with your DS-160 form first and mention your husband and kids as your travel companions. After you submit your DS-160 form, you will see instructions on how to continue filling DS-160 forms for your husband and kids. If you follow those instructions, most of the data from your DS-160 will be copied over to their forms, which makes the processes a lot easier and quicker.

Czasel says

February 6, 2020 at 2:56 pm

Thank you very much! I already did our DS-160 and booked an appointment. But I did a mistake in providing the Confirmation number of my husband on cgifederal website. I put my confirmation number, not his. How can I correct it?

Also, my husband is one of my dependents but in DS-160, he answered that he will pay for his expenses. Is that okay? Thank you very much.

February 7, 2020 at 7:51 am

Once you schedule your appointment in cgifederal, you cannot change your DS-160 confirmation. The only way to update DS-160 confirmation number is to cancel your appointment and reschedule. If you do that, you may not find the dates you like. Therefore, I suggest the below approach.

Have your husband fill a new DS-160. Have him carry both his OLD DS-160 confirmation and NEW DS-160 confirmation with him to the appointment. At the time of the interview, have your husband present his NEW DS-160 confirmation and tell the visa officer that he updated his DS-160 after scheduling the appointment. The visa officer will then use his NEW DS-160. This is a perfectly acceptable approach.

Yes, it’s fine. You can add him (or he adds you) as a dependent in cgifedaral. This is only to schedule a family interview, nothing to do with trip expenses. In your DS-160s, you will mention who will pay for whom.

Muhammad Ali says

January 30, 2020 at 4:03 pm

Hi! Thanks for putting this all together. It was really very helpful and nicely done. I have a quick question though. I’m about the complete DS-160 application for my dad and would want to complete one for my mom as well right after this one. I wanted to make sure the interview is scheduled on the same day for both of them. How do I do that? They are not traveling as part of a group or organization therefore I chose “NO” where this question was asked.

Since they will be traveling together (I answered in one of the questions on the form) but since most of the information I completed on my dad’s form will remain the same on my mom’s form too. What should I do to ensure that information from my dad’s form is auto-populated on my mom’s form? Thank you and look forward to a prompt answer with screenshots details that you have provided here in this guide.

February 2, 2020 at 8:01 am

Hi Muhammad Ali! Follow the below steps to have your mom’s DS-160 auto-populated with information from your dad’s.

– Start with your dad’s DS-160. Add your mom as his travel companion. – After submitting your dad’s DS-160 form, on the “thank you” page, you will be given the option to create the DS-160 form for your mom. – Follow the on-screen instructions from there on. All common information such as travel dates, companions, etc will be copied over to your mom’s DS-160 form. – I will soon add some screenshots to the article on how to do this.

Follow the steps below to schedule a single visa appointment for your mom and dad

– Create a profile/account for your dad (primary applicant) in US Travel Docs (refer to my article on scheduling the visa appointment for steps) – Add your mom as a “dependent” – On the payment page, you will be given a single receipt number and the total visa fee amount (for your dad and mom together) to be paid – You must make the total visa fee payment for that receipt number – When the receipt number becomes active, you will be able to schedule a single appointment for both your mom and dad – On the day of the appointment, both your mom and dad must arrive at the consulate on the scheduled time and they both will be interviewed together

Pragati says

January 7, 2023 at 2:00 pm

Can this also be done for me and my brother? we are age 26 and 20 respectively.

January 9, 2023 at 8:09 am

Hi Pragati! Yes, you both can setup a family appointment, so you can be interviewed together.

Yin Yin Kyi says

January 21, 2020 at 9:11 am

Hi! How to apply for double entry? We can’t find in the travel section.

January 21, 2020 at 9:43 am

Hi Yin! You cannot select the “entry” for your US visa. All US visas are by default “multiple-entry”. When your US visa is issued, it will already be multiple-entry.

Shilpa BL says

December 9, 2021 at 3:36 pm

Hello Thirumal, I really appreciate you putting it all together. I have a few questions to be clarified, hoping you can help me here, please.

I’m applying for a US tourist visa, I have plans to travel there in the coming March and will be there for 20 days. I need a multiple entry visa because I’m also attending a friend’s wedding in May. How does the multiple entry visa work here?

Also, I have a temporary address in Bangalore with only a rent agreement and a permanent address in my native place within Karnataka. Which address should I be mentioning in the form?

I have booked my entry flights to the US but not a return flight, so I was wondering if a dummy ticket works here? Thank you so much in advance.

December 11, 2021 at 1:07 pm

Hi Shilpa! US tourist visa (B2 or B1/B2) is by default a multiple-entry visa valid for 10 years. You can visit the US as many times as you want within the visa validity. In your DS-160, you should mention your Bangalore address. Flight tickets and rental agreements are not needed for US visa application. Even dummy tickets are not needed.

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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.

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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.

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UK Visitor Visa from India: Everything You Need to Know

Last Update: 27-08-2024

Aditya Jain

United Kingdom

Excited about going to the UK, but overwhelmed with the visa process? We feel you. This comprehensive blog tells you everything you need to know to obtain your UK visitor visa from India.

From essential documentation to in-depth application procedure, visa fees, validity, practical tips and more, we’ll cover all the details. Our objective is to make your journey to the UK stress-free.

⚡Quick Summary

Do I Need a UK Visitor Visa from India?

Yes, as an Indian citizen, you typically need a UK visitor visa to enter the UK for tourism or short stays. UK standard visitor visa allows you to visit the UK for up to 6 months. Ensure you apply at least 3 months in advance and meet all the requirements for a successful application.

Table of Contents

Uk visitor visa overview, eligibility requirements for uk standard visitor visa, documents required for uk visitor visa.

• How to Apply for a UK Tourist Visa?

UK Visitor Visa Validity

UK Visitor Visa Fees from India

Uk visitor visa processing time, uk visitor visa extension process for indians, reasons for uk visitor visa rejections.

As a Standard Visitor, you can visit the UK for various purposes, including tourism, business, short-term study (up to 6 months), and other permitted activities. Generally, you can stay in the UK for up to 6 months. In specific situations, such as seeking medical treatment, you may apply to extend your stay.

Permitted Activities

As a Standard Visitor, you can:

• Tourism : Visit the UK for holidays or vacations.
• Family and Friends : See family or friends.
• Volunteering : Volunteer for up to 30 days with a registered charity.
• Transit : Pass through the UK on your way to another country.
• Business : Engage in certain business activities like meetings or interviews.
• Permitted Paid Engagements : Participate in paid activities as an expert, such as giving lectures or performing.
• Recreational Courses : Take part in a recreational course lasting up to 30 days, like a dance course.
• Study : Study, do a placement, or take an exam.
• Medical : Visit the UK for medical reasons.

Prohibited Activities

You cannot:

• Work : Perform paid or unpaid work unless it’s a permitted paid engagement or event.
• Claim Public Funds : Access public benefits or support.
• Long-Term Stay : Live in the UK for extended periods through frequent visits.
• Marriage or Civil Partnership : Marry or register a civil partnership; apply for a Marriage Visitor visa instead.

To qualify for a Standard Visitor visa, you must:

• Valid Passport : Have a passport or travel document valid for your entire stay.
• Evidence of Departure : Show you will leave the UK at the end of your visit.
• Financial Support : Demonstrate that you can support yourself and any dependants during your stay or have financial backing from someone else.
• Return Journey : Prove you can pay for your return or onward journey, or have someone else funding it.
• No Long-Term Residence : Ensure you are not using the UK for long-term residence through frequent visits.

Additional requirements may apply if you are visiting for study, academic purposes, permitted paid engagements, or medical reasons.

Following are the documents required for UK visitor visa from India:

UK visitor visa document checklist

How to apply for uk visitor visa from india, apply for a uk visitor visa through vfs global.

Step 1: Research on Your Visa Type: Begin by finding the right visa for your trip and ensuring you meet all UK visitor visa requirements. Learn about the documents required, processing time, and fees. If your documents aren't in English, consider translating them first.

Step 2: Get Your Documents Ready: Make sure you have all the documents needed for a Netherlands visa. Keep reading ahead for a complete checklist.

Step 3: Apply for Your UK Tourist Visa: Head to the UK Visas and Immigration website to apply for your visa.

Step 4: Pay Your Fees: You'll be required to pay a visa fee upon application submission. Once you have paid your UK visa fees, you will be given a reference number that starts with GWF.  This number will be helpful if you need to make changes to your visa application or appointment.

Step 5: Book an Appointment at a VFS Visa Application Centre: Upon completion of your visa application form and payment of the visa fee, you will be directed to the VFS Global website to book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre, so your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) can be recorded.

Step 6: Upload Your Documents: Digitally submit all the documents required for your UK visit visa application. You can scan your documents at the Visa Application Centre with their Document Scanning Assistance option. An additional fee applies for this service.

Step 7: Visit the Visa Application Centre: Attend your appointment at the Visa Application Centre to submit your biometrics and get your photograph clicked. Take your valid passport with at least one page that is blank on both sides. Children under 16 years old need to be accompanied by an adult.

Step 8: Get Your Visa: Once a decision is made on your application, you can collect your documents from the Visa Application Centre or have them delivered to you for an extra fee. Please do not attend the Visa Application Centre until you have been contacted to do so. To collect your documents in person; bring the receipt issued by the Visa Application Centre and a valid Government identification card.

Locations for UK Visitor Visa Application in India

Apply UK Visitor Visa from India through Teleport

Teleport makes applying for a UK visa straightforward and stress-free. Follow these steps for a smooth application process:

• Start Your UK Visa Application: Go to Teleport's UK visa application page and select 'Start Application.'
• Enter Basic Information and Make Payment: Provide your basic information like passport details. Teleport allows you to either automatically populate your data or enter it by hand. Opt to pay the visa fee either in full or partially upfront.
• Collect Your Documents: A Teleport Relationship Manager will guide you through collecting all necessary UK visit visa documents. 
• Appointment Booking: Your Relationship Manager will schedule a UK visa appointment at the visa application centre on your behalf.. He/she will also upload all the documents on the UK embassy website.
• Visit the Visa Application Centre: Visit the visa centre with your passport, appointment confirmation letter and a checklist of all documents required for UK visa application. Submit your biometrics. Your Relationship Manager will be available to guide you throughout the process.

This UK visitor visa fee is non-refundable and subject to change. Additional fees may apply depending on factors such as foreign exchange fluctuations, courier delivery charges (if availed), etc. Following are the UK visitor visa cost based on different visa types:

The UK visitor visa processing time can be around 3 to 5 weeks after an appointment with the embassy. To avoid last-minute hassles, start your UK visit visa application process up to 3 months before your intended travel date.

You may be able to extend your stay if you have permission to be in the UK for less than 6 months. You can extend your stay up to a total of 6 months. For instance, if you've already spent 4 months in the UK, you're eligible to apply for a 2-month extension.

You can apply to stay in the UK for longer than 6 months if you're a patient receiving medical treatment. You need to apply while you’re still in the UK and before your current visa expires.

When applying for a UK visa, knowing what could potentially lead to denial is crucial for strengthening your application and boosting the likelihood of getting approved. Here are some important considerations:

• Lack of Proper Documentation: All UK visit visa or tourist visa documents you submit must be authentic, complete, and satisfactory. Submitting incorrect or misleading information can cause your application to be rejected immediately and may lead to potential bans on future applications.
• Lack of Funds: Inadequate proof of financial stability and inability to cover the cost of your stay can lead to rejection. Maintain a minimum bank balance for UK tourist visa of around INR 3,00,000 per applicant.
• Weak Ties to India: UK authorities may question your intentions to return to India, if you cannot demonstrate strong ties, such as family, property, or employment in India, and, hence, may reject your visa application.
• Questionable Travel Record: A history of overstaying visas in other countries could be seen as a red flag, suggesting a risk of not adhering to UK’s visa regulations.
• Intentions Under Scrutiny: Not being able to convincingly explain the reason for your visit and its consistency with your planned activities might arouse suspicion. For example, expressing plans to work on a visa that doesn't allow employment could result in denial.

Learn more about UK visas

Teleport UK Visa Application page

UK Standard Visa Application Form

About UK Standard Visitor Visa

UK Visa Application Centre List

VFS Global for UK Visa

UK Transit Visa

UK Visa Processing Time

Securing UK visas can pose challenges. Through this blog, we aim to simplify the process of obtaining a UK tourist visa for Indians. Should you have any questions, \reach out to us on 073148 52914 or drop us a message on WhatsApp . 

Opt to apply with Teleport for a no-fuss UK tourist visa from India. Our user-friendly platform simplifies the entire process so you have one less worry thing to worry about - your visa!

Safe travels!

To get a UK Standard Visitor visa for tourism, you must fill out an application form online, submit the required fee and supporting documents and attend an appointment at a VFS visa application centre.

For a UK tourist visa, it is recommended to have a minimum bank balance of at least INR 3,00,000 when applying from India. This amount helps demonstrate your financial ability to cover the costs of your trip, including accommodation, travel, and daily expenses. It's important to show consistent financial stability over several months rather than a sudden large deposit.

The UK visit visa cost are as follows:

• Visa with 6 months validity: Embassy Fees: ₹ 12,527
• Visa with 2 years validity: Embassy Fees: ₹ 47,057
• Visa with 5 years validity: Embassy Fees: ₹ 83,983
• Visa with 10 years validity: Embassy Fees: ₹ 1,04,897

No, the UK Standard visitor visa does not allow for dependents to accompany the primary visa holder.

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for obtaining a UK tourist or UK business visa . However, we strongly recommend it. Having travel insurance provides financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, or other travel-related issues.

No, you cannot visit other countries in the Schengen Area with a UK Standard Visitor Visa. The UK Standard Visitor Visa only allows you to visit the United Kingdom for tourism or leisure. It does not grant you access to other. countries in the Schengen Area

Yes, a 3-month bank statement showing a balance of at least INR 3,00,000 is generally considered sufficient for a UK tourist visa. It is important to ensure that the bank statement is clear of any inappropriate transactions and demonstrates consistent financial stability to support your trip.

The processing time for a UK visitor visa from India is typically around 3 weeks. However, it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to account for any potential delays.

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I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens

ALERT: On Aug. 26, 2024, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, in Texas v. Department of Homeland Security,  Case Number 24-cv-306 administratively stayed DHS from granting parole in place under Keeping Families Together for 14 days.

To comply with the district court’s administrative stay, USCIS will:

• Not grant any pending parole in place requests under Keeping Families Together.
• Continue to accept filings of Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens.
• Continue to schedule biometric appointments and capture biometrics at Application Support Centers (ASCs).

The district court’s administrative stay order does not affect any applications that were approved before the administrative stay order was issued at 6:46 p.m. Eastern Time on Aug. 26, 2024.

Use this form to request a discretionary grant of parole in place under  Keeping Families Together .

What This Form Can Help You Do

• Keeping Families Together

Frequently Asked Questions About Keeping Families Together

Form Details

Form I-131F must be filed online.

File Online

You can find the filing fee for Form I-131F by visiting our  Fee Schedule  page. There is no fee waiver available for Form I-131F.

Starting Aug. 19, 2024, you may file Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens, online with the applicable filing fee. There is no fee waiver available for Form I-131F.

Each requestor, including noncitizen stepchildren, must file a separate Form I-131F requesting parole in place, and each requestor must have their own USCIS online account. A parent or legal guardian may create an online account for their minor child if the purpose is to submit a form on behalf of the minor. If a parent or legal guardian is not available, a primary caregiver or legal assistance provider may also help a child create their own USCIS online account. Information on creating a USCIS online account is available on the  How to Create a USCIS Online Account page.

• Frequently Asked Questions About the Keeping Families Together Process
• Form I-131F Filing Guide (PDF, 8.95 MB)

Filing Online

• How to Create a USCIS Online Account
• Tips for Filing Forms Online
• Online Filing for Attorneys and Accredited Representatives

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Coming to the United States Temporarily - Nonimmigrant Visa Services Coming to the United States Permanently - Immigrant Services Special Visa Services

This webpage lists visa application fees and other visa related fees collected by Department of State. Note that many immigration-related forms are submitted to the Department of Homeland Security’s United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and not to the Department of State. If the type of information or form you are seeking is not shown here, select USCIS Forms and Fees  to go to the USCIS Website to review more.

Coming to the United States Temporarily - Nonimmigrant Visa Services

Nonimmigrant visa application processing fees are tiered, as shown below, based on the visa category for which you are applying.

Notice: Every visa applicant must pay the visa application processing fee for the visa category being applied for, unless the application fee is not required, as listed below .

Description of Service and Fee Amount (All fees = $ in US currency)

Nonimmigrant visa application processing fee (non-refundable) for all categories below

• Non-petition-based nonimmigrant visa (except E): $185.00

Includes (but not limited to), the following visa categories:

*Though petition-based nonimmigrant visas, the processing fee for these visas is $185.00

• Petition based visa categories: $205.00

Includes these visa categories:

• E - Treaty Trader/Investor, Australian Professional Specialty category visa: $315.00
• K – Fiancé(e) or Spouse of U.S. citizen category visa: $265.00

Border crossing card fees

• Border crossing card - age 15 and over (Valid 10 years): $185.00
• Border crossing card - under age 15; for Mexican citizens if parent or guardian has or is applying for a border crossing card (valid 10 years or until the applicant reaches age 15, whichever is sooner): $15.00
• L visa fraud prevention and detection fee - for visa applicant included in L blanket petition  (principal applicant only): $500.00
• The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016 (Public Law 114-113) increases fees for certain H-1B and L-1 petitioners.  Consular sections collect this fee for blanket L-1 visa applications (principal applicant only) filed by petitioners who employ 50 or more individuals in the United States if more than 50 percent of those individuals are in H-1B or L-1 nonimmigrant status: $4,500.00 

When the nonimmigrant visa application processing fee is not required:

• Applicants for A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO, and diplomatic visas (defined in 22 CFR 41.26): No Fee
• Applicants for J visas participating in official U.S. Government-sponsored educational and cultural exchanges: No Fee (See Exchange Visitor Visas for further detailed fee information.)
• Replacement of machine-readable visa when the original visa was not properly affixed or needs to be reissued through no fault of the applicant: No Fee
• Applicants exempted by international agreement as determined by Visa Services, including members and staff of an observer mission to United Nations Headquarters recognized by the UN General Assembly, and their immediate families: No Fee
• Applicants travelling to provide charitable services as determined by Visa Services: No Fee
• U.S. government employees travelling on official business: No Fee
• A parent, sibling, spouse or child of a U.S. government employee killed in the line of duty who is traveling to attend the employee’s funeral and/or burial; or a parent, sibling, spouse, son or daughter of a U.S. government employee critically injured in the line of duty for visitation during emergency treatment and convalescence: No Fee

Nonimmigrant visa issuance fee, including border-crossing cards.

• See the  Visa Reciprocity Tables  to find out the visa issuance fee amount, if applicable:  Fee varies (Reciprocal)

When the nonimmigrant visa issuance fee is not required:

• An official representative of a foreign government or an international or regional organization of which the United States is a member; members and staff of an observer mission to United Nations Headquarters recognized by the UN General Assembly; and applicants for diplomatic visas as defined under item 22(a); and their immediate families:  No Fee
• An applicant transiting to and from the United Nations Headquarters:  No Fee
• An applicant participating in a U.S. government sponsored program which may include applicant’s dependent spouse and children:  No Fee
• An applicant travelling to provide charitable services as determined by Visa Services:  No Fee

Other - When a Visa is Not Required - Visa Waiver Program

• Citizens of Visa Waiver Program participating countries, and meeting requirements pay a small fee. Select USCIS fees to learn more.

Coming to the United States Permanently - Immigrant Services

Immigrant visa application processing fees are tiered, as shown below, based on the visa category you apply for.

Notice: Every visa applicant must pay the visa application processing fee for the visa category being applied for.

Filing an Immigrant Visa Petition  (When collected by U.S. Embassies and Consulates for USCIS. Fees subject to change.)

Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fees (non-refundable, per person) 

Note: Forms and fee amounts are listed for immigration petitions which are submitted to Department of State, either accepted at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad, or within the United States to the National Visa Center or Kentucky Consular Center. Other immigration related forms can only be approved by the Department of Homeland Security's United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For other fees (relating to forms starting with an "I" select USCIS Forms and Fees for additional information.

Special Visa Services

Note:   These fee charts are based on the Code of Federal Regulations - Title 22, Part 22, Sections 22.1 through 22.7.)

More Information

A-Z Index Latest News What is a U.S. Visa? Diversity Visa Program Visa Waiver Program Fraud Warning Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Straight Facts on U.S. Visas

Immigrant Visa Interview-Ready Backlog Report

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