Some U.S. Consulates Require NIV Applications on Form DS-160
Posted Dec 05, 2008
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As reported to MurthyDotCom and MurthyBulletin readers in our May 9, 2008 article, New Electronic Form DS-160 for Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) published a final rule on April 29, 2008 requiring nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants to use the online Form DS-160 to apply for most nonimmigrant visas, including H, L, O, P, and Q visas. While the rule became effective at the time of publication, the transition to using the new form has been gradual. It is important to check the instructions on the website for the particular consulate where one plans to apply, ensuring that the latest, preferred forms and procedures are being followed.
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DS-160 Currently Used at Five U.S. Consulates
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At the time of this writing, only five U.S. consulates require nonimmigrant visa applicants to submit their applications using a centralized, online location on the DOS WebSite. The five consulates include Hong Kong, Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey, Mexico, and Montreal and Vancouver, Canada. It is expected that the list of consulates will continue to increase.
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Additional Consulates Requiring Use of DS-160 Anticipated
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As the DOS has not provided a schedule for the implementation of the new rule, it is impossible to predict at what point any given consulate will require Form DS-160 be used to apply for nonimmigrant visas. NIV applicants should expect the new electronic form to be required by other consulates in the near future, as the rule is fully implemented. All visa applicants affected by the new rule should carefully read application instructions posted on applicable consulate websites.