US visas only available via internet

posted on: Mar 6 2010 12:0 by Royston. Viewed 330 times.


From 15 March, the U.S. Embassy here will begin using the new electronic application form DS-160 for non-immigrant visas.

The new DS-160 must be completed through the internet. Consular officials will provide training for travel agencies on how to fill out the form, although the DS-160 is designed to be filled in without the use of intermediaries.

This new form replaces the Forms DS-156, DS-157 and DS-158. All non-immigrant visas J, P, H1B, H2B and L must use the new DS-160 from March 15. On April 5, all renewals of B1/B2 multiple entry visas issued for 5 years or more and overdue for less than 12 months, must use the DS-160. On April 19, all applicants for non-immigrant visas must use the DS-160.

According to a press release, the person applying for a visa, after completing the application, can simply print the confirmation page, which contains a bar code and present it at the interview. This bar code allows the Embassy staff to electronically download the information contained in each application DS-160.

This new method, which has been used successfully in many countries provides several benefits. The DS-160 simplifies the application process because it replaces several previous forms, so there is no doubt about which form to use. The other main improvement is the applicant does not need to print a lengthy document to be presented at the interview, as all personal information will be stored in the barcode.