Core documents & forms
The document list, passport and photo rules, and the DS-160/DS-260 forms.
4 US resources in this topic
Requirements & how-to guidance
- Documents for a US visa applicationGuidance
The core paperwork every US visa applicant needs — passport, application-form confirmation, photo, appointment proof — plus the supporting documents that vary by visa category.
- Passport requirementsGuidance
Your passport must be valid, machine-readable, and generally good for six months beyond your stay — with country-specific exemptions and an e-passport rule for the Visa Waiver Program.
- US visa photo requirementsGuidance
Every US visa application needs a recent, colour, 2x2 inch (51x51mm) photo on a plain white background, with the head correctly sized and no glasses.
- 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.