The new DS-160, Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application, will be used to collect application information from persons seeking a nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. consulate/embassy. The fully integrated online application form replaces the DS-156 and DS-157 forms. Full use of the form has not yet occurred, however a few U.S. Consulates abroad are now requiring the DS-160. These Consulates include Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey in Mexico, Montreal and Vancouver in Canada and Hong Kong. Note that in Hong Kong the DS-160 is required only for petition based applicants (H, L, O, P, and Q visas). Applicants for visas at all other U.S. consulates/Embassies should continue to use the DS-156 and, where applicable, the DS-157. Visa applicants should always check the website for the U.S. consulate/embassy where they are applying to confirm the application forms and supporting documents required.

The DS-160 form must be completed and submitted electronically to the Department of State online. The form can be accessed at https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/. Upon submission of the electronic DS-160 application, a confirmation page will be provided to the applicant that includes only limited biographical information and a bar code. Applicants for visas must bring the confirmation page with them to their visa interview. Information entered on the DS-160 will be used to process the visa application and, combined with a personal interview, will determine an applicant's eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa.

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