U.S. Visa Interview Appointments: The Steps in Order

Before you start

This guide covers nonimmigrant visas, such as visitor visas, in general terms. Immigrant visas follow a different process. Visa rules, fees and procedures are set by the U.S. Department of State and can change, and each embassy or consulate adds its own instructions. Use this as an overview and follow the official instructions for your post.

Step 1: Complete the DS-160

The Form DS-160 is the online nonimmigrant visa application. The State Department says submitting it is only the first step: you then contact the embassy or consulate where you will apply to confirm whether an interview is needed and to schedule it. Keep the confirmation page with your application ID number — you must bring it to the interview.

Step 2: Choose where to apply

The State Department has said that nonimmigrant visa applicants should schedule their interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of nationality or residence. It warns that applying elsewhere may make it harder to qualify, and that fees paid for such applications won’t be refunded or transferred. Check the current guidance before booking.

Step 3: Pay the fee and schedule

Each embassy or consulate explains how to pay the application fee and book an interview, usually through an official online appointment system linked from the embassy’s website. The State Department’s guidance is to submit the DS-160, pay the fee and schedule the first available appointment; only then can you ask for an expedited appointment if you qualify under the post’s rules.

Appointment availability differs widely between locations. The State Department publishes estimated visa appointment wait times (external site) by post. Apply as early as you can.

Step 4: Prepare for the interview

Your embassy’s website lists the documents to bring. Commonly required items include:

• your passport, valid for travel to the United States;
• the DS-160 confirmation page;
• your appointment confirmation;
• a photo if the embassy requires one beyond the DS-160 upload;
• the fee payment receipt, if your post requires it;
• supporting documents relevant to your trip and ties to your home country.

Follow your post’s list — it is the authority, not this summary.

On the day

Arrive at the time your post specifies and expect a security check; many embassies restrict the electronic devices and bags you can bring, so read the visitor rules. Answer questions clearly and truthfully.

If you need to reschedule

Use the same official appointment system. Rescheduling rules and limits are set by each post, so check them before you change anything.