DS-160

A guide to the online J-1 Visa application process.

What is the DS-160?

The DS-160 is the online portion of the Non-immigrant Visa Application process for the US government. It is required for people traveling to the US temporarily for an exchange visitor program including the J-1 Camp Counsellor Visa.

Will I be sent instructions for completing my DS-160?

Yes, AmeriCamp provides fully detailed Visa Instructions via email to all eligible applicants with a full step-by-step guide of how to complete your DS-160 form. You should follow these instructions closely to ensure all questions are answered correctly, or you will be at risk of Visa denial.

How do I take a Visa Photo for my DS-160?

You will be required to upload a Visa photo as part of the DS-160 that must meet the US Visa Photo requirements. The best way to do this is use a photobooth with US Visa photos as an option. You can use the Photo-Me website to find photobooths in your area. Another option is taking the photo at home and using an online photo tool to edit it to fit the Visa photo requirements.

What do I do if the DS-160 website does not work on my device?

The DS-160 site is quite an outdated site which does not always work on every device or browser e.g. smartphones or Macbooks. It is best to complete the DS-160 on a desktop computer or laptop.

What do I do if I am having technical difficulties with the DS-160 website?

If you are having technical difficulties with the DS-160, AmeriCamp may be able to help, however we are not the hosts of this website and cannot provide detailed technical advice. It is best to try on multiple devices and browsers and continually save your work until it works.

You can also contact the US Embassy but they may be slow to reply.

What social media accounts do I need to include on my DS-160?

You need to include any social media that you have an active account on (including TikTok which is not currently on the drop down list of social media options).