DS 160 Family Application: A Step-By-Step Guide

Completing the DS-160 family application form is the essential first step for families applying for a U.S. nonimmigrant visa. This online application is required for each family member and must be completed accurately to avoid delays in the visa process. Each family member – including the children, must submit their own DS-160 form (even if applying as a family).

The online nonimmigrant visa application process starts with form DS 160. It is a crucial step in the visa process for families planning to travel to the United States on a US non-immigrant visa.

Applying for a US non-immigrant visa requires completing the DS-160 form. This form is required for each family member seeking a non-immigrant visa, regardless of age, and serves as the first step in the visa process.

Navigating through the details and requirements of the DS-160 can feel challenging, but understanding how to complete it accurately for the whole family can save time and prevent common errors.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of completing the DS-160 family application process, ensuring that your family’s visa application is accurate and successful.

If a family member needs to leave the U.S. and return, they may need to apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

What Is The DS-160 Form?

The Form DS-160 is an online visa application form, it is used by individuals applying for a non-immigrant visa to the U.S. Every family member, whether a spouse, child, or dependent, must complete a separate DS-160 form. This is crucial because US consulates require specific and unique information for each traveler.

Understanding The DS-160 Form For Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants

The form DS-160 is an online application that is used to apply for all nonimmigrant visas in the U.S.

The form is required for temporary visa applications, for individuals traveling to the United States temporarily including B-1/B-2 visitor visas, F-1 student visas, K (fiancé) visas, and work visas like the H-1B, O-1, and more.

• The form DS-160 is a crucial part of the visa application process, providing necessary information for consular officers to evaluate eligibility for a visa.
• The form is also known as the “Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application” and is used for all nonimmigrant visa applications.
• The form DS-160 is used to determine an applicant’s eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa, along with a personal interview.
• The form ds 160 is submitted electronically to the Department of State website.

Where Can I Find The Form DS 160?

You can access the form ds 160 online.

• To access visit the CEAC (Consular Electronic Application Center) website.
• You need to create an account and log in before filling the form ds 160.

Key Documents Needed For DS-160 Family Application

Before starting the DS-160 application for each family member, gather the necessary required documents:

List Of Key Documents Required For DS-160 Family Application

Valid Passport For Each Family Member

Ensure all passports are up to date.

• Passport Number and Expiration Date: Ensure that each family member’s passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
• Place of Issuance: The location or country where each passport was issued.

Individual Digital Photographs

• Recent Passport-Style Photo: Each family member needs a digital photo that meets U.S. visa requirements (plain white background, no glasses, taken within the last six months).

Travel Itinerary

If available, provide travel dates and details.

• Travel Dates: Tentative arrival and departure dates for the family’s trip.
• U.S. Address: Address where the family will be staying in the U.S. (hotel, family, or friend’s residence).

Family And Personal Information

• Parent’s Information: Full names of the parents for each family member (particularly necessary for children).
• Spouse’s Information (if applicable): Name, date of birth, nationality, and contact information of the spouse for each adult applicant.
• Family Contact Details: Contact information, including a primary address, phone number, and email.

U.S. Point Of Contact Information

• Contact Person’s Name and Address: Name, address, and phone number of a U.S. contact person, friend, family member, or organization (if applicable).

US Visa Petition Information

If applicable, have the details from your petition ready.

Previous US Travel Information

Details of past visits to the US, if applicable.

• Previous Visits to the U.S.: Details of any prior visits for each family member, including dates and purpose of travel.
• Past Visa Information: Information about any previous U.S. visas held by each family member (visa number, issue date, expiration date).

Family and Employment Information (for each adult applicant)

Required for adults, this includes employer details and family background information.

• Current Employer Information: Name, address, and phone number of the current employer.
• Job Title and Responsibilities: Job title, duties, and salary for each employed adult.
• Educational History: Names, locations, and dates of colleges, universities, or trade schools attended, along with degrees obtained.

Social Media Information

• Social Media Accounts: Each adult family member will need to provide information on any social media accounts used within the last five years (if applicable).

Marriage and Birth Certificates (if applicable)

• Marriage Certificate: Required if applying as a spouse to prove the marital relationship.
• Birth Certificates for Children: Required to verify the parent-child relationship for minor applicants.

Additional Documents (if applicable)

• Police Clearance Certificate: This may be required depending on the visa type or specific situations.
• Previous Visa Refusals or Denials: If any family member has had a U.S. visa denied previously, provide relevant details or documentation.

Having these documents on hand will help streamline the process and reduce errors.

DS 160 Family Application Process

Step 1: Create A Separate DS-160 For Each Family Member

Every family member, including children, must complete their own DS-160 form.

• You cannot submit one form for the entire family.
• Each person must answer questions that pertain to their personal information, travel history, and visa intentions.

Make sure to create a unique DS-160 for each member and avoid using duplicate information.

Step 2: Completing Personal Information

For each DS-160 form, fill in personal details such as:

• Full name (as shown on the passport).
• Date and place of birth.
• Nationality and passport number.
• Contact details.
• Marital status.

Ensure the accuracy of these details as inconsistencies could delay the visa process.

Step 3: Travel Information For The DS-160

Next, provide the purpose of the trip for each family member:

• Purpose of travel: Typically, this is “Tourism,” “Business,” or “Study.”
• Intended length of stay: Include specific dates, if available.
• Travel companions: Mention if the family is traveling together.

Even if you’re traveling as a family, each member must fill out this section individually.

Step 4: Filling Out Family Information

You’ll be required to provide details about immediate family members, such as:

• Spouse’s name.
• Children’s names.
• Parent’s details (even if they are not applying).

Ensure all information is consistent across all DS-160 forms to avoid red flags.

Step 5: Uploading Photos For Each Family Member

Each DS-160 form requires a digital photo of the applicant that meets the US visa photo specifications.

• The photo must be in color, with a white background, and show a clear image of the face.
• Upload the correct photo for each family member and make sure it adheres to the specific requirements, which can be found on the official US government website.

Step 6: Reviewing And Submitting The DS-160 Forms

Once you’ve filled out the form, review it thoroughly. Check for:

• Accurate spelling of names.
• Correct passport numbers.
• Consistent travel details.

Submitting the Application and Obtaining a Confirmation Page

• Once the DS-160 form is complete, submit it electronically and obtain a confirmation page.
• The confirmation page will include an inventory control number, which is required for scheduling a visa interview appointment.
• Print or save the confirmation page, as it will be required for your visa interview.

After reviewing, submit the form online. check the information before submitting a new form, You’ll receive a confirmation page for each family member’s DS-160 form, make sure to print this confirmation as it’s required for the visa interview.

If you forget to print the confirmation page:

• You can log in again using your application ID number and the security question.
• And then print your confirmation page.

Step 7: Scheduling The Visa Interview For The Family

After submitting all the DS-160 forms, you will have to schedule a visa interview for your family.

• This is done through the US embassy or consulate website.
• DS 160 confirmation number is required for scheduling the visa appointment.
• You’ll need the confirmation pages from each DS-160 form to schedule an appointment.

Step 8: Bringing The DS-160 Confirmation To The Visa Interview

On the day of the interview, bring the DS-160 confirmation page for each family member. The confirmation page contains a barcode that the consular officer will scan to access your application. Also, carry all supporting documents such as passports, travel itineraries, and any additional paperwork requested by the consulate.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Completing The DS-160 Family Application

Avoid these common errors when filling out the DS-160 forms:

1. Inconsistent information: Ensure all forms have matching family and travel details.
2. Incorrect passport details: Double-check passport numbers, especially for minors.
3. Submitting one form for the whole family: Each family member needs their DS-160.

Double-check all information before submission to avoid delays or denials in your visa process.

Visa Application Processing And Decision

After your (visa applicant) visa interview, the consular officer may determine if your visa application requires further administrative processing (review visa processing to know more).

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port of entry.

A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States:A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States.

After reaching a U.S. port of entry visa holder can request permission to enter the United States.

If a family member needs to leave the U.S. and return, they may need to apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Officials (at the port-of-entry) from The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), have the authority to permit or deny admission.

Post-Application Procedures

• If your visa is approved, it will be issued (after paying your visa issuance fee) and mailed to you.
• If your visa is denied, you may be eligible to reapply or appeal the decision.
• If you need to extend your stay in the United States, you may be able to request an extension through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
• If a family member needs to leave the U.S. and return, they may need to apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Tips For A Smooth DS-160 Family Application Process

• Ensure all family members have their own individual DS-160 forms. Each family member must complete their own application, even if they are traveling together.
• Double-check that all information matches the documents, especially names, dates of birth, and passport details.
• Make sure to save the DS-160 application confirmation page for each family member, as it will be required for the visa interview.

By preparing these documents and details for each family member ahead of time, you’ll be able to complete the DS-160 applications efficiently and accurately, ensuring a smoother visa application process for the entire family.

Conclusion

Completing the DS-160 family application is an essential step toward obtaining a US visa for each family member. By following the steps outlined in this guide and ensuring that all information is accurate, you’ll be well-prepared for the visa process. Don’t forget to print your DS-160 confirmation page and bring all necessary documents to your family’s visa interview.

With attention to detail and proper preparation, your family’s US visa application will have a higher chance of success.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs: DS-160 For Family Applications

Q: Can I submit one DS-160 for the entire family?

No, each family member must submit a separate DS-160 form.

Q: What if a family member’s information changes after submission?

You can retrieve and update the DS-160 form before submission. Once submitted, changes cannot be made, but you can correct information at the visa interview.

Q: Do children need to fill out their own DS-160?

Yes, every individual, including children, must have a separate DS-160 form.

Q: How do I sign the DS 160 form?

You can electronically sign your form ds 160 by clicking the sign application button at the end of the form.