Ask the Consul: Who should fill out the DS-160?

11.MAR.11

All applicants for nonimmigrant visas must fill out the new online visa application: the DS-160. The application requires a high-speed Internet connection. While we understand that some may not have internet access in your homes and that you may be inclined to utilize some of the services offered at internet cafes, travel agents, or other businesses, here are a few things that you should keep in mind.{{more}}

First, you are responsible for what is on the application. If you choose to use a travel agency or any other business to complete the DS-160, you must be certain to provide the correct and accurate information to the agent. For example, if you have previous travels to the United States, you must make sure to include the length of stay, even if you travelled to the U.S. illegally. You must also list all of your visits to the United States in the last five years, not just the most recent visit.

Second, if you are indeed using an agent, check over the agent’s work to ensure that the application is complete and truthful to the best of your knowledge. Some agents are entering “Do not know” or “Does not apply” to questions like the names of the applicant’s parents. If we find these types of inaccurate or incomplete answers to routine questions, you may be refused your visa or have to complete the form again. Even though someone else is completing the application for you, it is you who is applying for the visa, not the agent. Ask the agent to print out the application so that you can review it for completeness and accuracy.

Although you do not manually sign the form, your submission is your signature, meaning you attest to the veracity of the information submitted. Once the form is submitted, you cannot make any changes. Please note that if there are any inaccuracies on your form, we cannot change it for you.

Once the application is complete and you have reviewed it, print out the confirmation page with the barcode and bring it with you to the interview. Just be sure to remember that it is your application and your interview, so take responsibility for the information you provide.

More information is available as “Frequently Asked Questions” on the U.S. State Department’s web page: http://travel.state.gov/visa/forms/forms_4401.html . Additional information on the visa application process is available on U.S. Embassy Bridgetown’s website at http://barbados.usembassy.gov/ .