Applying for a US student visa (F-1) involves filling out the DS-160 form, which now requires you to provide your social media handles from the past five years. Many students are unsure what to do if they missed entering this information or if the rules changed after they submitted their DS-160. Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate this process, based on your current visa application stage.
Steps to Correct:
Create a New DS-160
- Fill out a fresh DS-160 form with all correct and updated information, including your social media handles.
Start a New Application on ustraveldocs.com
- Close your current application.
- Begin a new application using your new DS-160 number.
Link Existing Visa Fee Payment
- You do not need to pay the visa fee again.
- On your new application, link your old visa payment receipt to the new DS-160.
Proceed with Slot Booking
- Continue with the regular process to book your visa appointment.
Tip: This is the cleanest way to ensure your application is up to date before booking your slot
Case 2a: OFC (Biometrics) Not Done Yet
Steps to Correct:
Create a New DS-160
- Fill out a new DS-160 with your social media handles included.
Take Both DS-160s to OFC
- Bring both your old and new DS-160 confirmation pages to your OFC (biometrics) appointment.
Request Update at OFC
- Ask the staff at the OFC center if they can update your application with the new DS-160.
- If they update it, great! If not, don’t worry—just proceed as normal.
If Asked During Interview
- If the visa officer asks about your social media handles, explain that you filled out the form before the new rule was introduced, so you could not provide them at that time.
Case 2b: OFC (Biometrics) Already Done
Steps to Correct:
Create a New DS-160
- Complete a new DS-160 with your social media handles.
Bring New DS-160 to Interview
- Take the new DS-160 confirmation page with you to your visa interview.
Wait for Consulate’s Request
- Only provide the new DS-160 if the consulate specifically asks you to update your social media handles, or if they issue a 221(g) requesting more information.
- Otherwise, proceed with your original application.
If Asked During Interview
- Explain that you filled out the DS-160 before the new rule and were unable to update the information. However, you have the updated ds160 with all the data.
Key Points to Remember
- Always keep copies of all DS-160 confirmation pages and any correspondence.
- Honesty is best: If you genuinely did not know about the new rule, explain your situation calmly and clearly.
- Follow consulate instructions: If you receive a 221(g) or are asked to provide updated information, do so promptly
Conclusion
The US visa process can be complex, especially with changing requirements. If you missed entering your social media handles in the DS-160, follow the steps above based on your application stage. Stay organized, keep all documents handy, and communicate openly with the consulate staff. Best of luck with your US student visa journey!
If you need further assistance or have unique circumstances, connect with your Visa counsellor at Collegepond.
