Form DS-260, the “Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application,” is a crucial step in the process of applying for an immigrant visa to the United States. The primary purpose of filing Form DS-260 is to provide the U.S. Department of State with essential information about an intending immigrant to determine their eligibility for an immigrant visa.
Here are the key purposes of filing Form DS-260:
- Visa Application: Form DS-260 serves as the application for an immigrant visa. It is typically used by individuals who are seeking to immigrate to the United States, often as family-sponsored immigrants or as part of certain employment-based immigrant categories.
- Biographical Information: The form collects biographical information about the applicant, including their name, date of birth, nationality, and contact information.
- Background and Eligibility Information: Applicants must provide details about their family, education, work history, and previous visits to the United States. This information helps the U.S. government assess an applicant’s eligibility for the chosen immigrant visa category.
- Address in the U.S.: The applicant should specify the address in the United States where they plan to reside once they are granted an immigrant visa.
- Security and Background Checks: Information provided on Form DS-260 is used to conduct security and background checks to ensure that the applicant does not pose a security risk to the United States.
- Immigrant Visa Processing: Once the DS-260 is submitted and processed, it is an integral part of the immigrant visa application process. It is typically submitted online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC), and the applicant will receive a confirmation page and a case number that can be used to track the progress of their case.
After completing Form DS-260, applicants may need to attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. The information provided on the form will be reviewed during the interview to determine the applicant’s eligibility for an immigrant visa.
How to fill out Form DS-260?
Filling out Form DS-260, the Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application, is a critical step in the process of applying for an immigrant visa to the United States. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to complete and submit Form DS-260:
- Access the Form:
- Visit the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website.
- Click on “Immigrant Visa” and then “DS-260, Online Immigrant Visa Application.”
- Create an Account:
- If you haven’t used the CEAC system before, you’ll need to create an account. Click on “Register for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration” and follow the instructions to set up your account.
- Start a New Application:
- Log in to your CEAC account and select “IV and Alien Registration” under the “Immigrant Visa” section.
- Click “Start a New Application.”
- Complete the Form:
- The DS-260 is divided into sections. You will need to complete each section carefully. Here’s an overview of the main sections you will encounter:
- a. Personal Information: Provide your name, date and place of birth, marital status, and other personal details.
b. Address and Phone Information: Enter your current mailing address and contact information.
c. Passport Information: Input details about your passport, including passport number, issuance date, and expiration date.
d. Travel Information: List all the countries you’ve visited in the last five years.
e. Previous U.S. Travel Information: Provide information about any previous trips to the United States.
f. Family Information: Enter information about your immediate family members (spouse and children), including their names and dates of birth.
g. Work/Education/Training Information: Provide details about your education, work history, and training.
h. Security and Background Information: Answer questions related to security, criminal history, and other background information.
i. Medical and Health Information: Answer questions about your medical history, including vaccinations and any conditions that could affect your eligibility for a visa.
j. Sponsor and Address Information: If you have a U.S. sponsor, provide their information and the address where you intend to live in the United States.
k. Miscellaneous Information: Provide additional details, such as your social media presence and membership in organizations. - Review and Confirm:
- Carefully review all the information you’ve entered to ensure it is accurate and complete. You can make changes at this stage.
- Sign and Submit:
- Electronically sign the form by clicking the “Sign Application” button at the end of the form.
- After signing, you will receive a confirmation page with a Case Number. Save and print this confirmation page for your records.
- Pay the Visa Application Fee:
- After submitting the DS-260, you will be prompted to pay the immigrant visa application fee if required. Follow the instructions for payment.
- Supporting Documents:
- The U.S. embassy or consulate where you will attend your visa interview may require additional supporting documents. Check their specific requirements and submit the requested documents.
- Attend the Visa Interview:
- Once your DS-260 is processed, you will be scheduled for a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
Form DS-260 civil documents checklist
When you are applying for an immigrant visa to the United States and filing Form DS-260, you will typically be required to submit various civil documents as part of your application. These documents are essential for verifying your identity, eligibility, and supporting your visa application. The specific civil documents you need to provide can vary based on your individual circumstances and the immigrant visa category you are applying for. Here is a general checklist of Form DS-260 civil documents required:
- Passport:
- A copy of your valid passport’s biographic data page (the page with your photo and personal information).
- Birth Certificates:
- Original or certified copies of birth certificates for yourself and each accompanying family member. If the document is not in English, you will likely need to provide a certified translation.
- Marriage Certificate:
- If you are married, provide an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate. This document may also need a certified translation if it is not in English.
- Divorce or Death Certificates:
- If you have been previously married, provide divorce decrees, annulment certificates, or death certificates for any previous spouses.
- Police Certificates:
- Obtain police certificates (or equivalent) from all countries where you have lived for six months or more since the age of 16. These certificates should demonstrate that you do not have a significant criminal history.
- Military Records:
- If applicable, provide military records or discharge papers.
- Adoption Documents:
- If you or any of your accompanying family members were adopted, provide legal adoption documents.
- Court and Prison Records:
- If you have ever been arrested or convicted, you may need to provide court and prison records, as well as any evidence of rehabilitation.
- Vaccination Records:
- Proof of required vaccinations or medical exams, as determined by U.S. immigration regulations.
- Financial Support and Affidavit of Support:
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, from your financial sponsor (if applicable).
- Your financial sponsor’s supporting financial documents, such as tax returns, employment verification, and bank statements.
- Previous U.S. Immigration Documents:
- If you have previously been in the United States, provide copies of any visas, I-94 cards, and other immigration documents you may have.
- Civil Documents for Children:
- If you are applying for an immigrant visa for your children, you will need to provide their birth certificates and other relevant documents, such as adoption papers or marriage certificates (if applicable).