Form DS-260/DS-261

What is the DS-260 and DS-261?

Form DS-260 is the Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application. It's the form you complete to apply for an immigrant visa online. Form DS-261, on the other hand, is the Online Choice of Address and Agent, which you use to select an agent to receive your visa-related correspondence.

What is the DS-260 form used for?

The DS-260 form is used by individuals applying for an immigrant visa to the U.S. It’s completed online and submitted electronically to the Department of State, and it provides all the necessary personal and background information required for the visa application process.

What is the DS-260 form for a fiancé visa?

If you’re applying for a fiancé visa (K-1 visa), you won't use Form DS-260. Instead, you’ll use Form DS-160, which is for non-immigrant visas. The DS-260 is for immigrant visas, so it’s used once you’re applying for a green card based on your marriage.

What is the DS-260 and DS-160?

The DS-260 is for immigrant visa applications, whereas the DS-160 is for non-immigrant visa applications, like tourist, student, or fiancé visas. The DS-260 is filled out when you’re intending to live permanently in the U.S., while the DS-160 is for temporary stays.

How long does it take for DS-260 to be approved?

The approval time for Form DS-260 can vary widely, but it generally takes several weeks to a few months. The processing time depends on various factors, including the workload of the National Visa Center and the specific U.S. consulate handling your case.

How much is the DS-260 fee?

As of now, the fee for processing Form DS-260 is $325. This fee is required to process your immigrant visa application and must be paid before your interview is scheduled. Always check the latest fee on the official U.S. Department of State website as fees can change.

What happens after DS-260 is submitted?

After submitting Form DS-260, the National Visa Center will review your application. You will then be scheduled for an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. During the interview, a consular officer will review your case, verify your documents, and decide on your visa application.

What documents are required for the DS-260 interview?

For your DS-260 interview, you’ll need to bring several important documents, including:

• Your passport

• Two passport-sized photos

• Birth certificate

• Marriage certificate (if applicable)

• Police certificates from any country where you’ve lived for more than six months since the age of 16

• Medical examination results

• Evidence of financial support (such as an Affidavit of Support from your sponsor)

• Any other documents requested by the U.S. embassy or consulate

Can I fill out DS-260 without a passport?

You need a valid passport to complete Form DS-260, as you'll be required to provide your passport number and other passport details. If you don’t have a passport, you’ll need to obtain one before you can submit your DS-260 application.

Hopefully, this breakdown helps you understand the purpose and process of Forms DS-260 and DS-261. Navigating these forms is a crucial step in your immigration journey, and if you have any more questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Good luck with your application!