The DS-160 is the required online application for anyone seeking a U.S. nonimmigrant visa and is the first step before scheduling a consular interview. This guide walks you through how to access, complete, save, and submit the form, as well as how to avoid common issues like timeouts, missing information, or inconsistent answers. It explains what documents and details you’ll need in advance (passport, photo, travel history, social media accounts, work and education history, USCIS approvals, and U.S. contacts) and clarifies how to answer key questions about prior travel, visas, petitions, and security/background. Throughout, we highlight where extra care is needed and when to contact your Meltzer Hellrung attorney if you are unsure how to respond.