April 14th, 2025 at 05:32 am

US Visa Applicants Barcode Number Requirement on DS-160 Forms

If you have a U.S. visa interview scheduled for 2025, stop and review your DS-160 form. A new regulation has been implemented at U.S. embassies and consulates, and it might catch you off guard.

New Rule: Barcode Number Matching

The U.S. Department of State has introduced a critical requirement for all nonimmigrant visa applicants, including B1/B2, F-1, H-1B, and J-1 visas. The barcode number on your DS-160 confirmation page must match the one in your appointment profile.

That 10-character alphanumeric barcode on your confirmation page is vital. If it does not align with the one you submitted when booking your visa appointment on the CGI Federal or US Travel Docs website, you could face denial at the consulate entrance.

Real Consequences of Mismatched Barcodes

Visa centers are refusing entry to applicants whose DS-160 barcode numbers do not match their appointment records. Many applicants have had to reschedule their interviews, often weeks later. This delay can affect job start dates, university enrollments, and family reunions.

Consular staff in countries like India, Nigeria, Pakistan, and parts of Latin America confirm that this measure aims to address issues caused by last-minute DS-160 updates. These updates often lead to administrative confusion during interviews.

Understanding the Requirement

The DS-160 form is a crucial component of your visa application. It generates a unique barcode number, which helps track your information. Many applicants submit new DS-160 forms after scheduling appointments to fix errors, update travel details, or change locations. However, they often forget to update their appointment profile with the new barcode.

In 2025, there is no margin for error. If the barcode does not match, your application will be rejected.

Steps to Ensure a Successful Interview

If you have already scheduled your visa interview, follow these steps immediately:

• Locate your DS-160 confirmation page, either in PDF or printed form.
• Check the barcode number; it should resemble something like AA00B1C2D3.
• Log in to your appointment profile at either ustraveldocs.com or ceac.state.gov.
• Verify that the DS-160 number you entered matches exactly.
• If you submitted a new DS-160 after booking your appointment, update your profile with the new barcode number.
• Bring the correct, updated DS-160 confirmation page to your interview.

Neglecting these steps could result in losing your appointment. You risk being turned away at the door and facing weeks of waiting for a new appointment slot.

Who Needs to Follow This Rule?

This requirement affects every U.S. visa applicant who attends an in-person interview. It is especially crucial for those applying for:

• B1/B2 Visitor Visas
• F-1 Student Visas
• J-1 Exchange Visas
• H-1B and other work visas
• Dependent visas (F-2, H-4, etc.)

Make sure to double-check your information to avoid complications. Taking these precautions will help ensure a smoother visa application process.