The US Embassy in Georgetown is using a new DS-160 visa application form that is entirely online and web-based, and is available at http://georgetown.usembassy.gov/non-immigrant-visas.html.
Although the form is available for use now, after April 1, 2010, this will be the required application for all non-immigrant U.S. visas except fiancé (K visas), the U.S. Embassy said in a press release yesterday.
The DS-160 replaces three forms (the DS-156, DS-157, and DS-158) and is a key part of the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs global implementation plan for expanded online processing of visa forms.
The use of the Form DS-160 web-based Non-Immigrant Visa (NIV) application is being implemented at all US embassies and consulates around the world and the interactive form provides several translations but must be completed in English.
The release also noted that the use of the new online application eliminates the need to print an entire application for each traveler and bring it to the Consular Section at the time of the interview.
Applicants are able to upload a visa photograph, fill out the application in English, and submit the form online via the internet.
Upon completing and submitting the DS-160 online form in advance of the interview date, applicants will print out a single confirmation sheet and bring it with them to the Consular Section on their scheduled interview date.
However, if applicants arrive for their interviews without the confirmation sheet, they will not be permitted to enter the embassy for their visa appointments.
Applicants making appointments via the online appointment system must fill out the DS-160 application first as they will be asked for the DS-160 confirmation number for each traveler at the time of making the appointment. Persons who already have their appointments before April 5th can submit either the DS-160 application or the DS-156 and other necessary forms, but they do not need to re-book their appointments.
Applicants should continue to bring all other applicable supporting documents as needed for NIV applications, such as visa MRV receipt, I-20, SEVIS receipt, etc.
For more information, please visit the embassy website at http://georgetown.usembassy.gov/non-immigrant-visas.html
Meanwhile, the embassy will host a workshop on March 19 for internet café owners/operators to discuss and outline new procedures for completing the DS-160 online Non-Immigrant Visa Application.
The workshop is intended to increase understanding on how café owners/operators can encourage persons who may use their services to correctly complete this interactive online application, the release stated.
And live demonstrations on the use of DS-160 application and handouts will be available for all in attendance.
Café owners/operators are asked to indicate their interest by contacting the U.S. Embassy on telephone number 225-4900-9, ext(s) 4320 or 4327 between 10:00am and 3:00pm before March 16 and more information will be available after attendance is confirmed, the release added.
