U.S. visitor visa guide
DS-160 guide: structure, saving, confirmation page, and corrections
How the DS-160 online nonimmigrant form works—sections, Application ID, confirmation barcode, and what to do if you need to correct information.
Short answer
DS-160 is the official online nonimmigrant visa form on CEAC. Complete it truthfully, save your Application ID, and keep the confirmation page with barcode for your appointment. You are responsible for every answer even if someone helps type.
What DS-160 is (and is not)
DS-160 collects biographic, travel, family, work/education, and security information for nonimmigrant visa applications. Submitting DS-160 starts your electronic application record; it does not by itself grant a visa or entry.
- File only on the official CEAC site.
- One form per applicant, including children who need a visa.
- Answers must match your passport and supporting documents.
Saving, Application ID, and confirmation page
CEAC lets you save progress with an Application ID. Store that ID securely. After you electronically sign and submit, print or save the confirmation page with the barcode—posts typically require it at interview or drop-box.
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Application ID | Lets you retrieve an unfinished or submitted form within CEAC rules |
| Confirmation barcode page | Usually required when booking or attending the appointment |
| Security questions / answers | Needed to recover access if you return later |
Common sections to prepare before you start
- Passport biographics and prior U.S. travel or visas, if any.
- Planned U.S. address / contact and trip purpose consistent with B1/B2.
- Family, employment or school, and travel companions.
- Photo upload that meets current digital photo rules for your post.
If you are unsure of exact hotel names yet, use honest placeholders only when CEAC allows and update when required—do not invent a trip you will not take.
Corrections after submit
Minor typos discovered after submit are handled according to CEAC and your consular post. Some posts accept a corrected explanation at interview; others require a new DS-160. Follow the post’s current notice rather than informal advice.
FAQ
Can I use one DS-160 for my whole family?
No. Each traveler who needs a visa generally needs their own DS-160, including minors.
How long is a DS-160 confirmation valid?
Follow CEAC and your appointment system rules. Do not assume an old confirmation remains usable after a long delay—check before you travel to the interview.
Is the CEAC site the same as the local appointment website?
Usually no. DS-160 is on CEAC; fee payment and interview booking often use a country-specific appointment portal. Use both official channels as directed.
Does Htex auto-fill and submit DS-160?
No. RPA auto-submit is off. Htex helps you prepare documents and consistency checks; you submit on official sites yourself.
Official sources
Links to public government pages for verification. Htex is not a government agency; this page is explanatory only.