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Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

The DS-160, or the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, is a critical step in obtaining a U.S. visa. While the form is standardized for all applicants, the type of visa you’re applying for—whether for studies, employment, or family reunification—determines how you should approach specific sections.

Here, our founding attorney, Shobhana Kasturi, at Kasturi Law, LLC, who brings over 27 years of legal experience, including over a decade dedicated to helping individuals and families across Illinois, provides tailored tips for students, workers, and family-based visa applicants to ensure a smooth application process.

Application Tips for Special Visa Categories

For Students: F-1 and J-1 Visa Applicants

The F-1 visa is for individuals who wish to study full-time at an accredited academic institution in the United States. This includes universities, colleges, high schools, private elementary schools, seminaries, conservatories, and other educational institutions, as well as language training programs.

To get started:

  • Specify Your Primary Purpose of Travel: Indicate that your primary purpose is education or cultural exchange. Ensure that the details match the information on your I-20(F-1 visa) or DS-2019 (J-1 visa).
  • Provide Accurate School Information: Use your school or program’s exact name and Student & Exchange Visitor Information System(SEVIS) number as listed on your I-20 or DS-2019. Inconsistencies can lead to processing delays.
  • Financial Support Details: Be prepared to list and provide documentation proving your financial support. Whether funded by personal savings, a sponsor, or a scholarship, ensure the details align with your supporting documents.
  • Travel History and Intentions: Clearly outline your plans to return home after completing your program. Emphasize strong ties to your home country, such as family, employment prospects, and property ownership.
  • Supporting Documents for the Interview: Bring your I-20 or DS-2019, proof of financial support, and academic credentials to the counselor interview.

For Workers: H-1B, L-1, and Other Employment Visa Applicants

H-1B, L-1, and other employment visa applicants represent a diverse group of skilled professionals, executives, and specialized workers contributing to the U.S. economy. Each visa category has unique eligibility criteria and processes, requiring careful preparation and compliance.

To get started:

  • Accurately Reflect Your Employment Details: Use the exact job title, company name, and address as listed on your approved petition (I-129). Misstating this information can raise red flags.
  • Describe Your Role Clearly: Provide a concise and precise description of your job duties, ensuring they align with the job description in your petition. Avoid vague or overly technical language.
  • Employer Sponsorship Details: Confirm that your employer is the petitioner listed on your visa application. Be ready to provide evidence of your employer’s support, including the petition approval notice.
  • Previous Work Experience: Be thorough when detailing prior employment, especially if it supports your qualifications for the role in the U.S. Keep dates and titles consistent with your resume and petition.
  • Dependents and Family Information: If dependents are applying with you, ensure their DS-160 forms accurately reflect their relationship to you and your employment status.

For Family-Based Visa Applicants: K-1, K-3, or CR1/IR1 Visa Categories

Family-based visa applicants for K-1, K-3, and CR1/IR1 visas are individuals seeking to join their family members in the United States. These visas are designed to facilitate the reunification of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) with their fiancés, spouses, or immediate relatives. Each visa serves a distinct purpose and is tailored to specific family relationships.

  • Documenting the Relationship: Clearly describe your relationship to the U.S. citizen or permanent resident petitioner. For K-1 (fiancé/fiancée) visas, details of your engagement should match any submitted evidence.
  • Provide Complete Family Information: Include accurate details about your family members, especially the petitioner. Inconsistencies between your DS-160 and supporting documents can lead to additional scrutiny.
  • Address History: Be detailed and accurate when listing your address history, particularly if your petitioner has visited or lived with you.
  • Plans for Marriage (K-1 Visa): Clearly outline your intentions to marry within 90 days of entering the U.S. Be prepared to provide evidence of wedding plans, if available.
  • Previous Marriages or Relationships: If applicable, disclose all previous marriages or relationships and provide documentation of divorce or separation. Transparency is critical to avoid complications.

Consult Our Illinois Immigration Attorney for Help

The DS-160 is more than just a form—it’s the foundation of your visa application. Taking the time to complete it accurately and thoroughly is essential for securing your visa. Whether you’re a student seeking to advance your education, a worker pursuing career opportunities, or a family member reuniting with loved ones, the details matter.

If you need assistance with your DS-160 or consular interview preparation, our experienced immigration attorney is here to guide you.

Contact Our Immigration Lawyer at Kasturi Law, LLC Today

Contact our immigration law firm today to schedule a consultation that suits your needs.

We’re here to meet you where it’s most convenient—whether that’s in person, over the phone, or via Zoom. You can easily schedule a consultation through our online calendar, selecting a 30-minute or 60-minute session to fit your needs. Your time is important to us, and we’re committed to giving your immigration questions the focused attention they deserve so you can move forward with confidence.