Based on similar notifications posted on Embassy and Consular, it appears the U.S. Department of State has recently updated its procedural guidelines related to DS-160s for many consular posts. For many visa applicants, there has been a new requirement introduced that may impact how travelers plan their application process. The DS-160, the mandatory Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, must now be submitted at least 48-72 working hours (two to three business days) before an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate is attended. Additionally, the DS-160 submitted prior to the interview must be the same one used to schedule to visa interview. This change, although seemingly minor, has implications that applicants should consider as they navigate the often complex visa process.
What Is the DS-160?
The DS-160 is a comprehensive electronic State Department form that collects personal, travel, and employment information from applicants seeking a U.S. visa. Completing this document and submitting it online is the first required step in the nonimmigrant visa application process. The purpose of the form is to provide consular officers information about the applicant prior to the interview so that they can begin an initial review of the application. After submission, applicants receive a confirmation page with a barcode containing a specific number (beginning with “AA”), which is required for scheduling a visa interview.
What's Changing — and Why It Matters
Under the new rules, many embassies/consulates require the number on the DS-160 barcode confirmation to match the number used to schedule the interview. Many embassies/consulates also require at least two to three business days between the time the DS-160 is submitted and visa interview attendance. This change may have been implemented to streamline internal processing and allow embassies and consulates sufficient time to review the submitted information before applicants schedule interviews.
Key Points to Know:
- DS-160 Number Match: At many embassies/consulates, there is strict enforcement of the number (starting with “AA”) on the DS-160 confirmation barcode matching the number on the appointment confirmation presented at the visa interview. If the numbers do not match, a consulate may refuse entry on the day of the interview and require the applicant to schedule a new interview date.
- 48-72 Working Hours/Two to Three Business Days: It's important to note that this timeframe refers to business days, which excludes weekends and U.S. federal holidays. For example, if the visa interview is scheduled for Tuesday, the latest the DS-160 associated with that interview could be submitted is Wednesday or Thursday, depending on that consulate's requirements.
- Attention to Detail and Planning Are Crucial: This adjustment to more strict enforcement of DS-160 submission underscores the importance of consistency and accuracy throughout the process and proactive planning. Visa applicants should carefully review all forms completed throughout the visa process to ensure accuracy of the information contained within. It also requires building in extra time to account for the processing window if changes or updates are needed.
- No Exceptions: Many consulates emphasize that the DS-160 barcode number matching requirement is firm. DS-160 confirmation barcode numbers that do not match the number on the appointment confirmation might result in the consulate refusing to allow an applicant to interview and require the applicant to reschedule, which may affect overall travel timeline.
Takeaways
While the new focus on DS-160 consistency and the minimum submission requirement of two to three business days may require adjustments to visa preparation timeline, it's not insurmountable. By allowing embassies and consulates a buffer to review submitted forms, officials can catch errors or inconsistencies ahead of the interview. Foresight, organization, and careful planning may help applicants comply with the requirement and ensure their visa process flows smoothly.
Applicants should carefully review the requirements of the embassy/consulate where they will appear for an interview to ensure that they follow all required procedures.
Every step in the visa application sequence exists to promote clarity and efficiency, and understanding these changes may help avoid last-minute frustrations. For those seeking to visit the United States, staying informed of procedural updates like this demonstrates the importance of being detail-oriented and proactive.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
