The DS-160 is one of the most important stages of a U.S. nonimmigrant visa application.

It is not simply an appointment form. Consular officers use the information provided in the DS-160 together with other relevant information and, where applicable, the visa interview to assess the application.

Information to Prepare Before Starting

Having the information ready before completing the form reduces mistakes.

Prepare details relating to current passport, previous passports where relevant, UAE residence, intended U.S. travel, U.S. contact, family, employment, previous employers, education, international travel, previous U.S. visits, visa refusals and relevant social-media information requested by the form.

Personal Information

Names and passport details should be entered exactly according to the applicant’s official documents.

Check carefully full name, date of birth, place of birth, nationality, passport number, issue date, expiry date and issuing authority.

Present Employment

Employment information should reflect the applicant’s real circumstances.

Applicants may be asked for information regarding employer, job title, start date, salary, employer address and main job duties. Job duties should accurately describe what the applicant actually does.

Previous Employment and Education

Depending on the applicant and visa category, previous employment and education details may be requested. Dates should be checked carefully rather than estimated unnecessarily.

Travel History

Travel history should be completed accurately based on passports and other available records. Do not intentionally omit travel simply because it seems unimportant.

Previous U.S. Visas and Refusals

Previous U.S. visa applications, visits and refusals should be answered according to the questions asked. Transparency is essential.

U.S. Contact Information

The appropriate contact depends on the purpose of travel. It could potentially be a family member, friend, company, conference organiser, hotel or other relevant contact where permitted by the form and facts.

Never invent a contact simply to complete the field.

Before Submitting

Perform a final review of names, passport number, dates, travel purpose, employment, salary, family details, previous refusals and travel history.

Once the form is submitted, corrections may require additional steps.

DS-160 Assistance from NEXO Services

NEXO Services can help organise information, complete application details based on information supplied by the applicant and review the form for consistency before submission.

Applicants remain responsible for ensuring that all information supplied is complete and truthful.