travel document visa

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Travel documents for foreign citizens returning to the U.S.

If you are a citizen of another country and have been living in the U.S., you may need special documents if you leave the U.S. and then return.

Travel documents for permanent and conditional permanent residents

If you are outside the u.s. for less than one year.

If you are a permanent or conditional permanent resident who has been away from the U.S. for less than one year, you will only need to show your Green Card upon re-entry to the U.S.

If you are outside the U.S. for one year or longer

If you are a permanent or conditional permanent resident who has been outside the U.S. for one year or longer, apply for a re-entry permit before you travel. Use Form I-131 - Application for Travel Document .

• For permanent residents, the re-entry permit is valid for two years from the date of issue.
• For conditional permanent residents, the re-entry permit is valid for two years after the date of issue. Or it is valid up until the date you must apply for removal of the conditions on your status , whichever date comes first.

Travel documents for other foreign citizens living in the U.S.

If you are a foreign citizen re-entering the U.S., the documentation you need may depend on your immigration status:

• Advance parole - You may use advance parole to re-enter the U.S. without applying for a visa. It is commonly used for re-entry by people in the process of applying for permanent residence, applying for a status adjustment, or applying for asylum.
• Refugee travel document - You may be able to use this document to re-enter the U.S. if you have refugee or asylum status.

If you need help, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) .

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Home Office travel documents and visa free countries

Tell Us What You Think?  

Under the 1951 UN Convention Refugee Travel Document (blue) is issued by the United Kingdom to a refugee who has been granted asylum in the UK. If someone has been recognised as a refugee then they can apply for a travel document under the 1951 refugee Convention, which is a blue passport-sized document. Information about applying for this travel document is available  on the UK government website .

The Refugee Travel Document Normally is normally issued for up to 10 years for adults and for up to 5 years for children, or in line with limited leave. It also may be issued with a shorter validity if considered appropriate.

Travel documents are normally valid for all countries other than the country asylum is claimed from and/or the country of origin.

Countries that allow visa-free travel on Refugee Travel document

Countries that do not allow entry with refugee travel document.

UAE – Dubai

Qatar – Doha

Stateless person’s travel document

A stateless person may apply for a travel document under 1954 United Nations Convention relating to Stateless Persons. Information about applying for this travel document is available  on the UK government website . For more information on statelessness, see our  fact sheet on statelessness .

The travel document is normally valid for up to 5 years (children) or 10 years (adults) or in line with the leave granted. The stateless travel document is normally valid for all countries.

Certificate of Travel

Certificates of Travel may be issued to individuals who:

• are permanently resident in the United Kingdom, or
• have been granted Humanitarian Protection (HP) or Discretionary Leave (DL) to enter or remain in the UK for a limited period, following an unsuccessful asylum application  and  can provide documentary evidence that they have been formally and unreasonably refused a passport by their country of origin.

The certificate of travel is normally valid for up to 5 years or for the length of leave the individual has. The Home Office guidance states that the certificate of travel is normally valid for all countries but there were previously issues with the acceptance of the document in a number of countries, including many European ones. It is recommended that a particular country’s rules should be checked before applying for such a document and travelling to that country.

However, if an individual stay outside of the UK for a period of more than 2 years, that leave to remain (whether indefinite or limited) will lapse. The leave to remain will not lapse if someone comes back and left again during the two-year period – it must be continuous for the leave to lapse.

Disclaimer:

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Connaught Law and authors accept no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please don’t hesitate to contact Connaught Law. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Connaught Law.

About the Author

Awais Javed View author's profile | More posts from author

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You may also be interested in, new changes impacting skilled workers and employers, sponsoring a spouse is getting more expensive., new changes to the immigration rules for students and their dependants., what is a judicial review and who can apply for it, what are the financial equirements for a uk fiance visa, requirements for 10 years long residence and the case of afzal v sshd, access to child – 5 years route to settlement, indefinite leave to remain for children, eu nationals and ability to sponsor family members, contact information.

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About Travel Document Systems, Inc

Travel Document Systems, Inc. (TDS) is a leading visa and passport processing agency. For the past 33 years, we have served travel agents, tour operators, cruise lines, NGO's as well as corporate and individual international travelers. TDS specializes in travel that involves visas for more than one country.

We provide expedited visa processing for U.S. citizens for countries which require a visa, Canadian citizens where there is no diplomatic representation in Canada, and U.S. permanent residents of other nationalities with visas for many countries. Our visa and passport processing agency offices are located in Washington DC, San Francisco, New York, Chicago, Houston, Atlanta, Seattle and Los Angeles, just steps away from the embassies, consulates, and the U.S. Passport Agency. 

TDS is your "one-stop-shop" for visa and U.S. passport processing. Many visas that might otherwise take weeks or months to obtain by direct correspondence can readily be processed within days because of our frequent contact with embassies and consulates.

Our visa and passport processing agency provides a complete array of expediting services for both individual and group travel, including tourist and business visas, e Visas and U.S. passport renewal processing, as well as special services involving legal and commercial documents. TDS can adapt quickly to changes in visa requirements since most changes are made by foreign countries without notice, and can often be effective immediately.

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Travel documents

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Where Is The Travel Document Number On A US Visa

Published: December 2, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Dulcea Gales

• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Traveling to the United States is an exciting and enriching experience. However, before embarking on your journey, it is essential to obtain the necessary visa to enter the country legally. One crucial piece of information on your US visa is the Travel Document Number, which plays a significant role in the immigration process.

The Travel Document Number is a unique identifier assigned to your visa. It is used by immigration officials to verify your visa status and track your travel history. Understanding where to find this number on your US visa is essential, as it may be required for various purposes, such as completing immigration forms, applying for extensions, or checking the validity of your visa.

In this article, we will delve into the importance of the Travel Document Number and guide you on where to locate it on your US visa. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, having a clear understanding of this crucial information will make your travel experience smoother and hassle-free.

Understanding the US Visa

Before we dive into the specifics of the Travel Document Number on a US visa, it is essential to have a basic understanding of what a US visa is and how it works.

A US visa is a stamp or sticker placed in your passport that grants you permission to enter and stay in the United States for a specific period. There are different types of US visas, including tourist visas (B-1/B-2), student visas (F-1), work visas (H-1B), and more, each serving a specific purpose and allowing for different lengths of stay.

When you apply for a US visa, you must provide all the necessary documentation, undergo an interview at a US embassy or consulate, and pay the required fees. The US government reviews your application, assesses your eligibility, and determines if you meet the criteria for the specific visa category you are applying for.

Once your visa is approved, it is affixed to one of the pages in your passport, typically on a blank visa page. The visa contains important information such as your name, passport number, visa type, visa category, and other relevant details. One of the most critical pieces of information on your US visa is the Travel Document Number.

The Travel Document Number is a unique identifier that allows immigration officials to track your visa status and verify your travel history. It is crucial to keep this number handy during your stay in the United States, as it may be required for various purposes, such as reapplying for a visa, extending your stay, or checking your immigration status.

Now that we have a basic understanding of what a US visa is, let’s explore why the Travel Document Number is so important.

Importance of the Travel Document Number

The Travel Document Number on your US visa holds significant importance throughout your travel journey. It serves as a unique identifier and is used by immigration officials to verify your visa status and track your travel history. Here are a few reasons why the Travel Document Number is essential:

• Immigration Verification: When you arrive at a US port of entry, immigration officials will review your visa and passport. They will use the Travel Document Number to verify the validity of your visa, confirm your identity, and ensure you meet the entry requirements. It is essential to have this number readily available to facilitate a smooth immigration process.
• Completing Immigration Forms: Throughout your stay in the United States, you may need to complete various immigration forms, such as the Arrival/Departure Record (Form I-94) or the Application for Employment Authorization (Form I-765). These forms often require you to provide your Travel Document Number. Having this information readily accessible will help you accurately complete the necessary paperwork.
• Checking Visa Validity: The Travel Document Number allows you to check the validity of your visa online through the US Department of State’s Visa Check website. By entering your Travel Document Number, you can verify the expiration date, visa category, and any conditions or restrictions associated with your visa. This information is crucial to ensure you comply with the terms of your visa and avoid any potential problems during your stay in the United States.

It is important to note that the Travel Document Number is different from your passport number. While your passport number is a unique identifier for your passport, the Travel Document Number specifically relates to your US visa and tracks your immigration history within the United States. Make sure to keep both numbers secure and readily accessible during your travel.

Next, let’s explore where exactly you can find your Travel Document Number on your US visa.

Where to Find the Travel Document Number on a US Visa

Locating the Travel Document Number on your US visa is essential for various purposes, including completing immigration forms, checking visa validity, and ensuring a smooth immigration process. Here are the common locations where you can find the Travel Document Number:

• Visa foil: In most US visas, the Travel Document Number is printed on the visa foil, which is affixed to one of the pages in your passport. It is generally located at the top or bottom of the visa foil. Look for a series of numbers that typically range from 8 to 11 digits. This is your Travel Document Number.
• Visa stamp: If you have a US visa with a stamp instead of a foil, the Travel Document Number can usually be found within the stamp itself. Check for a sequence of numbers near the bottom of the stamp. This set of numbers is your Travel Document Number.
• Visa confirmation email or receipt: If you applied for your US visa online or through a visa application center, you may have received a confirmation email or receipt. In some cases, the Travel Document Number may be mentioned within the document. Take a look at the provided information to find your Travel Document Number.

If you are unable to locate your Travel Document Number or have any concerns, it is recommended to reach out to the nearest US embassy, consulate, or the visa application center where you obtained your visa. They will be able to assist you and provide guidance regarding your specific situation.

Remember to keep your Travel Document Number secure and readily accessible during your travels. It is advisable to make a copy of your visa and passport, including the page with the Travel Document Number, and store it separately from the originals. This will help in case of loss or theft of your documents.

Now that you know how to find the Travel Document Number on your US visa, you can confidently navigate immigration procedures and ensure a smooth travel experience within the United States.

Understanding the Travel Document Number on your US visa is essential for a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. This unique identifier plays a significant role in verifying your visa status, completing immigration forms, and checking the validity of your visa. By knowing where to find this number on your US visa, you can navigate immigration procedures with confidence.

In this article, we covered the basics of a US visa and its importance in granting permission to enter and stay in the United States. We highlighted the significance of the Travel Document Number and its role in immigration verification and completing necessary paperwork. Additionally, we provided guidance on common locations to find the Travel Document Number on your US visa, such as the visa foil, visa stamp, or visa confirmation email.

Remember to keep your Travel Document Number secure and readily accessible during your travels. It is recommended to store a separate copy of your visa and passport, including the page with the Travel Document Number, to mitigate the risk of loss or theft.

If you have any concerns or issues locating your Travel Document Number, we encourage you to reach out to the nearest US embassy, consulate, or visa application center for assistance. They will be able to provide the necessary guidance and support.

With a clear understanding of the Travel Document Number and its importance, you can confidently embark on your journey to the United States, knowing that you are well-prepared for the immigration procedures that lie ahead.

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How to apply

Refugee travel document and certificate of identity services are now available

If you already applied and now need a travel document urgently, contact us .

Tell us if your travel document application is now urgent

Fill out our web form :

• Under Type of application/enquiry, select Certificate of Identity/Refugee Travel Document
• include your travel date
• include the reason you need the travel document

Answer a few questions to find out how to apply. Keep in mind

•   you need to be in Canada to get service
•   In person services are not available.

Are you in Canada right now?

Who is the travel document or certificate of identity for?

The application process is the same for both documents.

When do you need the travel document?

• 30 business days or less
• 31 business days or more

Apply for a travel document or certificate of identity – adults (16 years of age or over)

Floods in British Columbia

If you’re directly affected by the floods, you may be able to get

• free replacement of documents that are lost, damaged, destroyed or inaccessible due to the floods
• urgent processing and a refund for an application you’ve submitted because of the floods

Find out how to apply

1. Contact us for next steps

Fill out our web form .

• Under Type of application/enquiry , select Certificate of Identity/Refugee Travel Document.
• Include the date you need the travel document and the reason you need it.

After you fill out the form, we’ll contact you and give you information on the next steps.

• While you wait for us to contact you, you can start getting your application ready.

The application form is the same for travel documents and certificates of identity.

2. Complete the form

To save time, complete the form on a computer. Sign each page of the application.

Download the adult travel document application [PPTC 190] (PDF, 1.64 MB)

Someone else can help you complete the form, like a family member or a friend you trust. However, they must be 18 years of age or older.

If you can’t write and won’t be able to sign your document once you get it, include a medical letter explaining that you don’t write.

Instructions and tips

• If you can’t open the form, follow these instructions .
• To get a Braille instruction booklet or large-print forms, contact us .
• Read the instructions at the end of the form to make sure you complete it properly.
• Sign each page of the application.
• cross it out on the form and write “parent’s surname at birth”
• fill in the field with the surname (last name) at birth of 1 parent, and
• write your initials in the margin

3. Gather all necessary documents and get a passport photo

Here is a list of necessary documents:

• Your proof of immigration status in Canada
• the original document or
• a photocopy of it signed by your guarantor
• Any valid passport or travel document issued in your name
• They can handwrite this or use a stamp.
• Stick-on labels are not accepted.
• Your guarantor must sign it and write, “I certify this to be a true likeness of (your name).”

Read the full photo requirements for more information.

All your documents must be in English or French. If a document is in another language, provide an official translation .

You may need extra documents if you’re

• changing your name
• replacing a lost, stolen or damaged travel document
• changing the sex on your travel document

4. Find a guarantor and 2 references

You need a guarantor who meets the requirements for a travel document to sign

• your application
• the back of 1 of your passport photos
• the front and back of all photocopies of your supporting identity documents (ID)

You also need 2  references to include on your application.

Your references and guarantor must have known you for at least 6 months. Learn who’s eligible to act as a guarantor and as a reference .

We’re working to deliver travel document services as quickly as we can. Due to high volumes, processing times may be longer than usual.

Apply for a travel document or certificate of identity for a child (under 16 years of age) (30 business days or less)

The application form is the same for refugee travel documents and certificates of identity. Once we receive your application, we decide

• which type of travel document to give the child
• how long it will be valid for
• Under Type of application/enquiry , select Certificate of Identity/Refugee Travel Document .

While you wait for us to contact you, you can start getting the child’s application ready.

To save time, complete the form on a computer. All parents or legal guardians should sign the application form.

Download the child travel document application [PPTC 192] (PDF, 1.77 MB)

Someone else can help you complete the form, like a family member or a friend you trust. However, they must be 18 years of age or older.

• If you can’t open the form,  follow these instructions .
• To get a Braille instruction booklet or large-print forms,  contact us .
• fill in the field with the surname (last name) at birth of 1 parent and

Include the following documents with the application:

•  a photocopy of the child’s proof of immigration status in Canada
•   proof of parentage   (opens in a new tab) or proof of legal guardianship (if applicable)
•  all documents (including any divorce judgment or order) pertaining to the child that refer to custody, decision-making responsibilities, access, parenting time and/or mobility
•  any valid passport or travel document issued in the child’s name
• Your guarantor   (opens in a new tab) must sign it and write, “I certify this to be a true likeness of (the child’s name).”
• Read the full photo requirements   (opens in a new tab) for more information.

You need to provide extra documents if you’re

• replacing a lost, stolen or damaged travel document   (opens in a new tab)
• This may include a legal name change certificate, a court order or an adoption order displaying the child’s old and new name.
• changing their gender identifier   (opens in a new tab)

All your documents must be in either English or French. If a document is in another language, you must provide an  official translation (opens in a new tab)   .

4. Find a guarantor

• the child’s application
• the back of 1 of the child’s passport photos

The guarantor must have known you for at least 6 months and must know of your child. Learn who’s eligible to act as a guarantor .

1. Complete the form

2. gather all necessary documents and get a passport photo.

Include the following documents with your application form:

• a photocopy of your proof of immigration status in Canada
• any valid passport or travel document issued in your name
• your guarantor must sign it and write “I certify this to be a true likeness of (your name)”

3. Find a guarantor and 2 references

You also need 2 references to include on your application.

Your references and guarantor must have known you for at least 6 months. Learn who’s eligible to act as a guarantor and as a reference .

4. Pay your fees

Your fees and payment methods depend on which document you apply for.

Fees and how to pay them (opens in a new tab)  

5. Submit your application

You need to apply by mail. In person services are not available.

We recommend you use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce delivery time, protect your documents and track delivery.

Courier address

Centralized Network – Certificate of Identity Section – Crémazie 6th Floor (OSC) 365 Laurier Avenue West Ottawa, Ontario K1A 1L1

Mailing address (non-courier)

OSC PPT-COI PO Box 8783 STN T CSC Ottawa, Ontario K1G 5G8

Apply for a travel document or certificate of identity for a child (under 16 years of age) (31 business days or more)

The application form is the same for travel documents and certificates of identity. Once we receive your application, we decide

• which type of travel document to give you

3. Find a guarantor

You’ll need to find a guarantor to sign

• the back of 1 of the photos

Your guarantor must

• be a permanent resident or a Canadian citizen
• live in Canada
• have known you (the child’s parent or legal guardian) personally for at least 6 months and know of the child
• registered or licensed and
• currently works in their field

See the list of eligible occupations, as well as the full requirements for a travel document guarantor .

Proof of immigration status documents

Documents you can use as proof of immigration status in Canada include

• a valid permanent resident card
• a temporary resident permit
• a notice of decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB)
• an IRCC verification of status (VOS) document
• a positive pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA) results letter

How to open our forms

You need to

• The forms may not open on mobile devices (iPads, tablets, mobile phones).
• save the file on your computer in a place you can remember
• If you don’t have it, download Adobe Reader 10 for free.
• Adobe has help for solving common issues with Reader .

For more help, see our step-by-step instructions on downloading and opening PDFs . If you still have trouble opening the forms, contact us online or call us at 1-800-567-6868. If you’re outside Canada or the United States, contact the closest Canadian government office abroad .

You need to be in Canada to apply for a travel document

Travel document services aren’t available outside of Canada.

If you have an emergency, contact the nearest Government of Canada office abroad .

• Next: After you apply

Page details

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Non-citizen travel documents

Can i get a passport if i’m not a citizen.

• Who gets a Convention Travel Document (CTD)?
• Who gets a Certificate of Identity (COI)?

Can I get a CTD or COI overseas?

Can i get a ctd or coi if i’m unlawful, how do i choose between a ctd and a coi, how long are ctds and cois valid for, how do i apply for a ctd or coi, how do i get interpreting assistance, what documents do i need.

Australian passports are only for Australian citizens. However, we issue other travel documents to certain non-citizens:

• stateless people
• non-citizens who for other reasons can’t get travel documents from their country of nationality.

The types of travel documents we issue to non-citizens are:

• Convention Travel Documents (CTDs)
• Certificates of Identity (COIs).

These travel documents don't confer Australian citizenship or Australian consular protection. They're not evidence of any right to re‑enter or remain in Australia. They exist simply to facilitate overseas travel for people who would otherwise have no travel document.

You’ll need to meet the visa and travel document requirements of the countries to which you intend to travel. COIs are accepted in fewer overseas countries than CTDs.

Who gets a Convention Travel Document?

You may be eligible for a Convention Travel Document, also known as a Titre de Voyage, if:

• you’re in Australia, and
• you’re not an Australian citizen, and
• the Department of Home Affairs has recognised you as a refugee under the 1951 Refugee Convention.

Who gets a Certificate of Identity?

You may be eligible for a Certificate of Identity if you’re:

• not an Australian citizen, and
• about to leave Australia, and either
• stateless, or
• unable to obtain a valid travel document from your country of nationality.

Outside Australia, it’s difficult to replace a Convention Travel Document or Certificate of Identity if it's lost, stolen, expired or damaged.

You can’t apply for these documents if you’re outside Australia and you’ve never held either of them before.

You don’t have to.

When we receive your application, we’ll assess your situation and work out which document you’re eligible to receive.

Convention Travel Documents are usually valid for one or two years.

Certificates of Identity are usually valid for two years. If you return to your home country and are eligible for a travel document from that country, your Certificate of Identity becomes invalid immediately.

The only way to get an application form is to call us on 131 232. Select option zero (0) to be connected with an operator.

When you’ve filled in the form and have all the documents we require, you’ll need to call us again on 131 232 to make an appointment to lodge your application at a capital city passport office . You have to go to a passport office, not Australia Post.

If you’re overseas, contact your nearest Australian diplomatic or consular office to discuss whether you’re eligible to replace an existing CTD or COI.

When you lodge the application, we’ll ask you to sign a letter to confirm:

• that you understand the terms of issue of the document
• tell the Department of Home Affairs about your new travel document, and
• confirm with every country you intend visiting that you meet their entry requirements.

You’ll need to tell the Department of Home Affairs about your new document so that:

• it can update your visa with your new travel document
• it can inform you about the travel conditions of your visa and whether you’ll be able to re-enter Australia
• it can approve your travel, if your visa conditions require you to seek permission .

If you breach your visa conditions, your visa could be cancelled.

If you need interpreting assistance to speak to us about your application, call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 131 450. TIS will arrange an interpreter in the language you speak and transfer your call to us at no cost to you.

When you apply for a Convention Travel Document (CTD) or Certificate of Identity (COI), you’ll need to bring us:

• identity documents, and
• any previous CTD or COI we’ve issued to you, and
• a record of your current visa status.

The record of your visa status can include:

• a Document for Travel to Australia (DFTTA) issued at the time you first travelled to Australia
• a Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) printout
• a Department of Home Affairs visa grant letter.

If you’re not a refugee, you’ll need to show us that you have overseas travel plans, for instance a draft itinerary or a travel booking quote. However, you should wait until you have your COI or CTD before you make firm travel arrangements or commit any funds for travel.

Unless you’re a refugee living lawfully in Australia, or you’re stateless, you need to show to us that you can’t get a travel document from the country of your nationality.

If you claim to be stateless in accordance with the UN Convention Relating to the Status of Stateless Persons, we’ll confirm your claim with the Department of Home Affairs. An Australian immigration document that shows ‘stateless’ as your nationality is not enough to prove that you’re stateless. If you’re applying for a CTD or COI for a child, you’ll also need to meet our requirements for parental consent . There are special instructions if the child is a ward of the Immigration Minister .

More information from the Department of Home Affairs:

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Completing the DS-160

Important Notice:  Take care to answer all questions on the DS-160 accurately and completely; otherwise, you may have to correct your application and reschedule your visa interview appointment.

Electronically submitting your DS-160 online application is only the first step in the visa application process. Once you have electronically submitted your DS-160 online application, you must contact the embassy or consulate at which you wish to apply to confirm whether you need to be interviewed by a consular officer, and to schedule an interview. You can find a list of U.S. embassies and consulates  here , with links to their websites where you can find information about scheduling a visa interview appointment.  If the embassy or consulate at which you apply informs that you must have a visa interview, the visa application process cannot be completed until you appear for an interview with a consular officer.

Accessing the DS-160

Where can i find the ds-160.

Access the DS-160 here, by clicking:  Consular Electronic Application Center website .

You may wish to preview a sample DS-160 (10.1MB) before beginning.

I am having problems accessing the DS-160.

Use only Internet Explorer 11 or higher, Firefox, or Google Chrome 58 when completing your appplication. Safari and Microsoft Edge are not supported .

What documents do I need to have with me while I complete the DS-160?

You should have the following documents available while you complete your DS-160:

• Travel itinerary , if you have already made travel arrangements.
• Dates of your last five visits or trips to the United States , if you have previously travelled to the United States. You may also be asked for your international travel history for the past five years. 
• Résumé or Curriculum Vitae  - You may be required to provide information about your current and previous education and work history. 
• Other Information  - Some applicants, depending on the intended purpose of travel, will be asked to provide additional information when completing the DS-160.

Some applicants will need to have additional information and documents handy while completing the DS-160:

• Students and Exchange Visitors (F, J, and M) : You will be asked to provide your SEVIS ID, which is printed on your  I-20 or DS-2019 , so you should have this form available when completing your DS-160. You also will be asked to provide the address of the school/program at which you intend to study. This information should also be on your I-20 or DS-2019 form. 
• Petition-based Temporary Workers (H-1B, H-2, H-3, CW1, L, O, P, R, E2C):  You should have a copy of your  I-129  available when completing your DS-160. 
• Other Temporary Workers:  You will be asked for information about your employer, including the employer’s address, while completing your DS-160.

Can my answers be in my native language?

No. All answers  must be in English, using English characters only,  except when you are asked to provide your full name in your native alphabet. Applications submitted in any language other than English will be denied, and you may be required to submit a new application.

While you must answer all questions in English, translations of questions are available in many languages from the drop-down menu in the right upper corner of the application. These translations should assist you in completing the form in English.

Are all questions on the DS-160 mandatory?

Most questions are mandatory and must be answered in the spaces provided. You may leave spaces blank when the questions are marked “optional.” You may answer a question with “Does Not Apply,” when that question does not apply to you; however, all other questions must be answered. The system  will not  allow you to submit an application with any mandatory questions left unanswered. If you do not complete a mandatory question, the system will display an error message and require you to answer the question before continuing with the application. If you do not answer questions that apply to your circumstances and/or purpose of travel, the system will not accept your application.

Are additional forms required?

No. The online DS-160 application replaced the DS-156, DS-157, DS-158, and DS-3032, which are no longer necessary.  NOTE : In addition to the DS-160, Treaty Trader/Treaty Investor visa applicants also must complete an additional form (see the Treaty Trader/Treaty Investor, E Visa Applicants  section below for more information). 

What happens to my DS-160 if I select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate where I will be applying for my visa, but end up making an interview appointment instead at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate?

The Embassy or Consulate at which you actually apply should be able to access your form using the barcode on your DS-160 confirmation page, which you must bring to the visa interview. For example, a business traveler intends to apply for his visa at the U.S. Embassy in City X, so he selects City X as the location where he will submit his application when he completes his DS-160. He then has an urgent reason to travel to City Y on business. Because there is a U.S. Consulate in City Y, he schedules an appointment for a visa interview there, using the barcode from his completed DS-160 application for appointment scheduling. The U.S. Consulate in City Y is able to accept his DS-160 even though it lists the U.S. Embassy in City X as the location where he originally intended to submit his application.

Completing Specific DS-160 Questions

How do i sign the ds-160 form.

You electronically sign your DS-160 by clicking the “Sign Application” button at the end of the form. Failure to sign may result in termination of the application. Your electronic signature certifies that you have read and understood the questions in the application and that your answers are true and correct to the best of your knowledge and belief. The submission of an application containing any false or misleading statements may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States. All declarations made in the application are unsworn declarations made under penalty of perjury.

Unless you are exempted from appearing in person, your fingerprints will be electronically scanned on the day of your interview. By providing your fingerprints, you will again certify that that you have answered all questions on the DS-160 truthfully and to the best of your knowledge, and that you will tell the truth during your visa interview. You will be directed to read the following statement prior to having your fingerprints scanned:

“By submitting my fingerprint, I am certifying under penalty of perjury that I have read and understood the questions in my visa application and that all statements that appear in my visa application have been made by me and are true and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Furthermore, I certify under penalty of perjury that I will tell the truth during my interview and that all statements made by me during my interview will be complete to the best of my ability.”

Can a third party complete the form on my behalf? Who is exempt from signing the form?

If an applicant is illiterate or unable to complete the application, the applicant must be assisted by a third party. The third party must be identified on the “Sign and Submit” page of the application. While the third party can assist the applicant in completing the application, he or she must instruct the applicant on how to endorse the application on his or her own behalf by clicking the “Sign Application” button.

If the applicant is under the age of 16 or physically incapable of completing an application, the applicant’s parents or guardian may complete and click the “Sign Application” button on his or her behalf. If the applicant has no parent or legal guardian, then the application may be completed by any person having legal custody of, or a legitimate interest in, the applicant.

The DS-160 contains terms that I am not familiar with. Are these terms explained?

Explanations of the following terms contained in the online DS-160 form are available to you as help topics while you complete the DS-160 and are also provided below. 

Help: Surnames

Enter all surnames (or family names) exactly as they are written in your passport. If only one name is written in your passport, enter that as your “Surname.”

Help: Given Names

If your passport does not include a first or given name, please enter 'FNU' (meaning “first name unknown”) in the space for “Given Names.”

Help: Other Names

Other names used include your maiden name, religious name, professional name, or any other name by which you are or have been known.

Make sure to enter the other names you have used in full.  Thus, if you have only used another surname, enter it along with your usual given name. If you have only used another given name, enter it along with your usual surname.

Help: Telecode

Telecodes are four-digit code numbers that represent characters in some non-Roman alphabet names.

Help: Date of Birth

Enter as shown in your passport.

Help: Place of Birth

Please choose the name currently used for the place where you were born.

Help: Phone

You must provide a primary phone number. The primary phone number should be the phone number at which you are most likely to be reached; this could be a land line or a cellular/mobile number. If you have an additional land line or a cellular/mobile number please list that as your secondary phone number. 

Help: Identification Numbers

Your National ID Number is a unique number that your government may have provided. For example, the U.S. Government gives unique numbers to people looking to work or who pay taxes.

Help: Other Nationality

Enter all nationalities you currently hold and all nationalities you have previously held (including United States, if applicable), regardless of whether you have formally and/or legally relinquished the nationality. If the country where you previously held nationality no longer exists, choose the name of the country that is currently used for that location. (For example, if you used to be a citizen of the former East Germany, choose “Germany.”)

Help:  Permanent Resident

Permanent resident means any individual who has been legally granted by a country/region permission to live and work without time limitation in that country/region.

Help: Passport/Travel Document Number

Enter the number of the passport or travel document you will use to travel to the United States. This passport/document must still be valid, and must identify you and your nationality.

Help: Passport Book Number

The Passport Book Number is commonly called the inventory control number. You may or may not have a Passport Book Number on your passport. If you do, the location of the Passport Book Number on your passport may vary depending on the country that issued your passport. Please contact your passport issuing authority if you are unable to determine whether or not your passport contains a Passport Book Number.

Help: Expiration Date

In most cases your passport or travel document must be valid for at least six months after your arrival in the United States.

Help: Application Receipt/Petition Number

If you are applying for a petition-based visa, your application receipt/petition number was given to you by the Department of Homeland Security’s U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) after you filed your petition application at a USCIS Service Center. The application receipt/petition number is 13 characters long and the first three characters are letters.

Help: Previous Employer

Please enter information regarding your previous two employers only. Applicants may choose to bring along a separate written list of  all  previous employers to the visa interview for reference.

Saving Your DS-160 and Returning to a Partially Completed DS-160

How can i save my application can i stop in the middle of the application and return to it later.

You can save your application or return to a partially completed application. When you begin a new DS-160, you will be issued a unique application identification (ID) number after selecting and answering a security question. Once you have your application ID number and have selected and answered a security question, you may exit the DS-160 application and return to it later.  You must have your application ID to return to your application .   To save your DS-160 to the Consular Electronic Application Center website, click the “Next” button at the bottom of each page you complete.  You have 30 days to return to a partially completed application . To access your application after 30 days, you must save it to your computer hard drive or a disk, as explained in the  FAQ  below.

How do I save my DS-160 application to my computer hard drive or a disk?

Saving to a hard drive or disk  will allow you to access your application after 30 days . To permanently save your application to your computer hard drive or a disk, select the “Save Application to File” button. Then, click the “Save” button on the File Download window. Identify a place on your computer to save the application, browse to that location, and click the “Save” button on the “Save As” window. The system will download your application to the specified location. Once the download is complete, you can click “Close” to return to the live application on our website.  Note:  Applications saved to the hard drive of a public or shared computer or memory device could likely be accessed by anyone else who uses the computer or device after you.

I apply for U.S. visas often. Can I reuse the DS-160?

Yes, you can use information from a previously submitted DS-160 to populate some fields on a new form. There are two ways that you can do this. First, if you plan to apply for a visa in the future, save your DS-160 to your hard drive or a disk using the instructions in the  FAQ  above. When you go to apply for your new visa you can then select “Option B-Upload a Previously Saved Application” on the Getting Started page. Alternately, if your previous visa application was submitted after November 1, 2010, you can select “Option C-Retrieve Application,” enter your previous visa application ID, and then hit “Create a New Application.” Your personal information will then populate the form. Be careful to check that all previously submitted information is current and accurate.

What if I lose my internet connection, the application “times out,” or I receive an error? Will my application be lost?

Why did the edits i made from the review page "edit" link not save.

In order for data changes made from the review page links to save, you must use the buttons at the bottom of each page to navigate, instead of the browser's back/forward buttons or the buttons along the side of the screen.

Uploading a Photo to Your DS-160

I understand that i can upload a photo with my application. how do i get a digital photo that will successfully upload to my application.

Please refer to the  Photograph Requirements  for detailed guidance.

The confirmation page has an "X" in the box where the photo should be. What does that mean?

That means that the photo upload failed. Therefore, you should submit one printed photograph meeting our requirements, along with the online DS-160 confirmation page, to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate at which you plan to apply for your visa.  Please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you are applying for specific instructions on how to do this.  See the print photo format found in the  Photograph Requirements  for more information. If the confirmation page includes a photo image, then the photo upload function was successful and no separate print photograph is required.

Correcting Answers on a Submitted DS-160

The u.s. embassy or consulate where i went for my visa interview denied my application because my ds-160 contained errors or was incomplete. what does this mean and what do i need to do next.

DS-160 applications submitted before April 1, 2010  cannot be reopened, and therefore, you must complete and submit a new DS-160.

The Embassy or Consulate should reopen your DS-160 submitted after April 1, 2010 if your application is denied for this reason and ask you to correct it , as explained below:

• DS-160 applications submitted on or after November 1, 2010: Enter your application ID  number and answer additional questions as prompted to access and correct your application. 
• DS-160 applications submitted on or after April 1, 2010, but before November 1, 2010: Enter your barcode or confirmation number into the Application ID field  and answer additional questions as prompted to access and correct your application.

After I have corrected or completed my DS-160 application, do I need to schedule a new appointment or return to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate?

Ds-160 confirmation page, should i bring my entire application or just the confirmation page with me to the interview.

You are not required to bring your entire application. For your interview, you  are  required to bring your confirmation page with your application ID number on it so we can retrieve your DS-160. You must bring the confirmation page with you during all phases of the application process. Without the confirmation page, we may not be able to process your visa case.

I submitted my online DS-160 application, but lost my confirmation page. Can I print a new one?

Yes, you can reprint the confirmation page of an application that has already been submitted. In order to do so, go into the  Consular Electronic Application Center website  and select the Embassy or Consulate at which you are applying. Hit “Option C-Retrieve Application” on the Getting Started page and enter your application ID number. From there you will be able to view and print your confirmation page.

Family/Group Applications

I am traveling with my family or as part of a group. can i create a family or group application.

Yes. When you select “Email Confirmation” on your Confirmation Page, you will be directed to a “Thank You” page. On the “Thank You” page you will see an option to create a family or group application. When you select this option, certain information from your application, such as destination, will automatically be imported to and displayed on a new application. Please note that if you use this option you must create an individual application for each family member or for each individual within the group.

If I use the option on the "Thank You" page to create a family or group application, can I modify the data automatically populated by the system?

Yes. If one of the dependents has a different surname or nationality, for example, you can alter that data before submitting the application.

Treaty Trader/Treaty Investor, E Visa Applicants

I am applying for a treaty trader/treaty investor, e visa. do i need to fill out the ds-160 and the ds-156e.

It depends. If you are a Treaty Investor (E-2) applicant, you need only complete the DS-160. If you are a Treaty Trader (E-1) or an Executive/Manager/Essential Employee (E-1 or E-2), you must complete the DS-160, and you or your employer must complete the paper  DS-156E  form.

More Information

A-Z Index Latest News What is a U.S. Visa? Diversity Visa Program Visa Waiver Program Fraud Warning Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Straight Facts on U.S. Visas

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Why IRCC may refuse your visitor visa application

Foreign nationals often come to Canada for leisure, to visit family and friends, or to conduct business.

To visit Canada, residents of visa-required countries * must obtain a visitor visa . However, there are many reasons that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may refuse an applicant’s visitor visa application.

Read more about business visitors to Canada here .

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

*Other visitors to Canada, from visa-exempt countries , would require an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) rather than a visitor visa.

Failure to provide proper and accurate supporting documents and/or pay government processing fees

Visiting Canada involves meeting strict entry and admissibility requirements, which include presenting IRCC with mandatory documents as part of the visitor visa application. It is recommended that visitors to Canada take the time to double-check IRCC’s application checklist to ensure they compile an accurate and complete set of supporting documents.

In addition, visitor visa applicants must make sure they pay IRCC’s processing fees on time to avoid any potential mishaps with their application, including a refusal.

Inadmissibility due to prior criminality

Visitor visa applicants with a criminal history may be denied entry to Canada. However, it is also possible that the applicant’s criminal background may not bar them from coming to Canada. Therefore, foreign nationals seeking a visitor visa should be transparent about their history and ensure they submit a criminal record check and any other applicable documentation to support their application.

Note: This may involve putting together documents to show IRCC that the applicant is rehabilitated and should be allowed to enter Canada as a visitor. An authorized immigration lawyer can help with these efforts.

Doubts about an applicant’s intentions during their stay in Canada

Applicants may have their visitor visa refused if they are not clear with IRCC and/or the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) about the purpose of their time in Canada. To avoid creating doubt, applicants should provide supplementary documents such as an itinerary to help immigration authorities and border security officers understand why they are visiting and what they plan to do while in the country.

Other proof of intention may include flight reservations and hotel bookings.

Applicant lacks ties to their home country

Because visitors are typically only admitted to Canada for up to six months, a significant part of the application process is proving that they will depart at the end of their authorized stay. Therefore, if an IRCC or CBSA officer has reason to believe that an applicant may not leave Canada when their visa expires, the application may be refused.

One reason that IRCC may doubt that a visitor will leave when their visa expires is if they determine the applicant lacks strong ties to their home country. To help IRCC establish that the applicant does indeed have ties to their home country, giving the immigration department confidence that they will depart from Canada at the end of their authorized stay, applicants should submit documents such as the following:

• Evidence of home country employment (confirmation letters and pay stubs)
• Evidence of family dependencies in the applicant’s home country (children, parents, grandparents etc.)
• Evidence of home country property ownership (lease agreements etc.)

Concerns about the applicant’s past travel history

Visiting Canada will be harder, but not impossible, for applicants with a poor travel history. In the context of a visitor visa application, IRCC may refuse to issue a visa to foreign nationals with a history of:

• Prior overstay in Canada
• Prior refusal of Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) applications in Canada

To help IRCC mitigate concerns about an applicant’s past TRV refusals or worries that the applicant may repeat the pattern of overstaying their authorized stay in Canada, the applicant should be transparent with the immigration department about this history.

In the same way that transparency is important for an applicant’s criminal history and purpose for visiting Canada, visitor visa applicants should provide IRCC with a detailed explanation of this history and show what actions* they have taken to correct this behaviour.

*Examples of corrective behaviour may include proof of compliance with visa regulations in subsequent travels and proof of the individual’s commitment to Canadian immigration laws

Misrepresentation

Applicants must be honest and truthful during all stages of the visitor visa application process to avoid issues regarding misrepresentation.

Note: One example of a misrepresentation issue that can lead to a visitor visa refusal is the non-disclosure of TRV refusals to other countries such as the United States.

The applicant does not have legal status in their country of residence

Applicants are required to resolve any illegal status issues in their country of residence before applying for a Canadian visitor visa. Providing proof of legal residence, for instance, will help IRCC feel comfortable that the applicant will abide by the law during their stay in Canada.

Failure to meet health standards

Some foreign nationals, such as those applying for a Super Visa , will be asked to undergo a medical examination as part of their visitor visa application.

Applicants may be refused entry to Canada based on their health status, but it is possible to overcome these concerns by providing IRCC with a detailed medical history and passing any required medical examinations. A letter from a certified healthcare professional, confirming that the applicant is in good health, can also be helpful.

Failure to show financial support

IRCC and CBSA officers need to be sure that foreign nationals can cover their expenses while in Canada. Therefore, it is important to demonstrate financial stability by providing documents that affirm the applicant’s income and assets, such as recent bank statements, employment verification letters, and any other details that can establish financial stability.

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Cruise ship leaves Spain at last after Bolivians' visa row

By Joan Faus, Corina Pons and Albert Gea

BARCELONA (Reuters) - Dozens of Bolivian nationals who were detained on a cruise ship in Barcelona with false travel documents and invalid visas left the ship on Thursday, allowing it to continue on its journey after a long delay that angered other passengers.

The 69 Bolivians, including families with children, were taken to the port transit area, the government's regional delegation in Catalonia said.

The cruise ship, MSC-Armonia, which began its journey in Brazil, arrived in Barcelona early on Tuesday and was scheduled to leave for Corsica off the French coast later that day.

It was detained after authorities discovered the Bolivian nationals' visas were invalid. According to a Spanish Interior Ministry source, they were also carrying false documents.

The Bolivians, denied access to Spanish territory, will be taken to another boat while authorities process their cases to decide on potential deportations or granting of asylum, the delegation said.

Speaking by the port terminal, a Bolivian man named Juan, who declined to give his last name, said his son was among those detained.

His son, Juan said, was coming to Spain on holiday and had trusted a travel company who told him his documentation was legal when it actually wasn't.

"We don't know if they will be deported. Right now, we are in a wait-and-see moment in which we don't know if there will be a solution," Juan said.

El Pais newspaper said the Bolivians had intended to settle in Spain.

The case could signal a lesser-known irregular migration route from Latin America to Europe. The cost of a similar cruise ship journey starts at around 1,000 euros ($1,086), according to a specialised website.

Swiss-Italian operator MSC Cruises, which was responsible for checking the travel documents, said in a statement it would collaborate in the investigation.

The Bolivians would need to "follow the immigration process provided for by law", it said.

Passengers told Reuters that planned stops in France, Greece and Croatia had been cancelled due to the delay.

"People on board are enraged, feeling that it's surreal," said Paul Ibarguengoitia, 26, who is travelling with his family on the MSC-Armonia, adding that some disgruntled passengers had left the vessel over the change of itinerary.

(Reporting by Joan Faus, Corina Pons and Albert Gea; Editing by Andrei Khalip and Nick Macfie)

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Breaking news, 1,500 passengers trapped on cruise ship at port because of visa debacle.

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A cruise ship at a port in Spain has been forced to hold all 1,500 passengers on board, after a group from Bolivia failed to obtain the correct visa documents to enter the European border-free Schengen area.

According to reports, cruise ship MSC Armonia remains detained in Barcelona, with authorities scrambling to sort the situation.

The debacle, involving 69 Bolivian passengers, is preventing the ship from continuing its journey until the situation is resolved.

The voyage has traveled from Brazil to cover a route in the Mediterranean Sea, with the 69 Bolivians in question including families and children.

In a statement, MSC Cruises initially thought the visa documentation was correct and appeared to comply with the necessary requirements for travel.

However, upon further inspection, the visas were “not valid” for entry.

“The passengers appeared to have proper documentation upon boarding in Brazil,” the statement read.

“We have been informed by the authorities that the visas are not valid for entry into the Schengen area. As a result, passengers have not been able to disembark in Barcelona, which was their final destination.”

One Bolivian passenger, who spoke to local media under anonymity, said she was being treated like “a criminal [in a] prison” despite being assured by a travel agency her visa was correct and valid for travel.

Some family members of the Bolivian travelers on board the cruise ship told Spanish media that the 69 passengers had been victims of a scam.

According to the claim, as published in Spanish newspaper La Vanguardia, an agency in South America had offered the visas online and charged up to $10,000 per person.

It is understood the ship will remain in port while it works with authorities while the investigation continues.

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Cruise ship carrying 1,500 passengers stuck in Spain port due to Bolivian passengers’ visa problems

A view of the cruise ship MSC Armony moored in the port of Barcelona, Spain, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Authorities said Wednesday that a group of 69 Bolivians are not being allowed to disembark from a cruise ship in the Spanish northeastern port of Barcelona because they lack valid documents to enter the European Union’s Schengen area. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)

A passenger is photographed on the cruise ship MSC Armony, moored in the port of Barcelona, Spain, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Authorities said Wednesday that a group of 69 Bolivians are not being allowed to disembark from a cruise ship in the Spanish northeastern port of Barcelona because they lack valid documents to enter the European Union’s Schengen area. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)

Passengers are photographed on the cruise ship MSC Armony, moored in the port of Barcelona, Spain, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Authorities said Wednesday that a group of 69 Bolivians are not being allowed to disembark from a cruise ship in the Spanish northeastern port of Barcelona because they lack valid documents to enter the European Union’s Schengen area. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)

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BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — A cruise ship reportedly carrying 1,500 passengers was stuck Wednesday in the Spanish northeastern port of Barcelona due to the visa problems of a group of Bolivian passengers who were due to disembark there, officials said.

Authorities say 69 Bolivians were not being allowed to leave the ship because they lacked valid documents to enter the European border-free Schengen area. Solange Duarte, a Bolivian diplomat in Barcelona, told The Associated Press she received reports some of the stranded Bolivians had been duped into obtaining fake visas but had no further information.

“We have asked the families to indicate who has processed this visa and we have not gotten answers,” she said, adding she heard it was possible the Bolivians would be transferred to a different ship.

Spain’s national police was looking into the possibility of a fake visa scam, Duarte said.

Spanish state news agency Efe and other media said some 1,500 passengers were on board the MSC Armony hoping to continue the cruise to Croatia.

Bolivia’s deputy foreign affairs minister, Fernando Pérez, said the country was waiting “to see what the Spanish authorities decide what to do.”

A statement from the Bolivian Foreign Ministry on Tuesday said the Bolivian Embassy in Spain and the country’s Consulate General in Barcelona “are carrying out the pertinent steps to address this case,” coordinating with Spanish authorities, as well as with the MSC Cruises Company.

MSC Cruises said in a statement the Bolivians included families and children.

It said the “passengers appeared to have proper documentation upon boarding in Brazil. We have been informed by the authorities that the visas are not valid for entry into the Schengen area. As a result, passengers have not been able to disembark in Barcelona, which was their final destination.”

The company said the ship remained in port while it works with authorities to facilitate the process.

The Schengen area is an ID-check-free travel zone comprising 29 European countries, most from the European Union.

This story was corrected to show that the Schengen zone is a European rather than European Union creation and comprises 29 countries.