Making your application
The DS-160/DS-260 forms, booking an appointment, biometrics and the visa interview.
5 US resources in this topic
Requirements & how-to guidance
- How to apply for a US visa or ESTAGuidance
The general shape of a US visa application, or an ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program, with links to the official steps.
- The DS-160 application formGuidance
The DS-160 is the online form nearly every nonimmigrant visa applicant must complete before their interview, producing the barcoded confirmation page you bring on the day.
- Booking a visa appointmentGuidance
How to schedule your US visa interview after the DS-160 and fee, why wait times differ by post, and when you may qualify to skip the interview.
- Biometrics & FingerprintsGuidance
How and when the US collects your fingerprints, photo, and signature — at a consular interview abroad or a USCIS Application Support Center inside the country.
- The US visa interviewGuidance
What to expect at your consular interview, who has to attend, what to bring, and what a 214(b) refusal or administrative processing means.