Tips on Completing Your Application

The application forms ask for important information that will be used by a consular officer to assess your eligibility for a non-immigrant visa. By providing clear and accurate answers, you make it easier for the consular officer to reach a timely determination.  The following are some tips for completing the forms effectively:

Be Specific

You don't have a lot of space to answer most of the questions - so get the most out of your answers. Keep this in mind when you're answering questions about your employer, your occupation and the purpose of your trip. If you're self-employed, for example, it's better to describe briefly what you do ("run grocery store" "drive taxi") than to simply write "owner" or "self-employed." If you are applying for a tourist visa, it's more helpful to describe what and/or whom you are planning to visit ("I will visit my aunt during the school break") than if you simply write "tourism."     

Be Complete

Give complete answers to avoid misunderstandings. If you were in the United States more than once, list all your trips, not just the most recent one. Double-check your answers, especially answers to questions about other people about whom you may be uncertain. The application asks for information about whether other members of your family are in the United States and whether anybody has ever filed a petition for an immigrant visa on your behalf.  It is important that you answer those questions accurately.  

Be Responsible

Remember that by signing the application forms you are responsible for the accuracy and truthfulness of all information, even if the form was filled out by a travel agent or some other preparer.  If you present falsified information, you could be found permanently inadmissible to the United States.