Consulates Start Using Electronic Form DS-160

On April 29, 2008, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced the creation of Form DS-160, an electronically filed non-immigrant visa application form. Form DS-160 will ultimately take the place of currently used Forms DS-156, DS-157, DS-158, and other related forms such as the DS-156E, DS-156K, and DS-156V.However, the U.S. consulates and embassies are not being required to use Form DS-160 at the same time, so its use will be gradual. At this time, the only U.S. consulates using the new form are: CANADA Montreal (effective October 22, 2008) Vancouver (effective October 22, 2008) HONG KONG S.A.R. (effective November 24, 2008) MEXICO Ciudad Juarez (effective January 20, 2009) Matamoros (effective January 20, 2009) Monterrey (effective April 18, 2008 – pilot program) Nuevo Laredo (effective April 18, 2008 – pilot program) As the use of Form DS-160 becomes more widespread, it is more important than ever to check for the most recent instructions on each consulate’s website prior to applying for a visa. Source: www.visanow.com