The U.S. Embassy has provided important guidance for applicants completing the DS-160 form, a necessary step in the visa application process. The embassy recommends using a desktop or laptop computer rather than mobile devices to fill out the form, noting that errors may occur if browsers do not meet certain criteria. "There is no alternative to the DS-160, it must be completed electronically," states the advisory.
The recommended browser requirements include support for 128-bit encryption, JavaScript enabled, and Transport Layer Security (TLS) enabled. Internet Explorer 8.0 or higher is best supported.
Applicants are advised against leaving the application idle for long periods as this could result in a "time out" and loss of progress. If unsure about how to answer a question on the DS-160 or if mistakes are made, such as in biographical information or travel plans, applicants can discuss these during their visa interview instead of starting a new form.
In case of technical issues like lost internet connection or application timeout, it is crucial to note down the application ID number and security question answers. This information allows retrieval of saved data from where it was left off.
After submitting the DS-160 online, scheduling an interview with a consular officer is necessary. Applicants should plan ahead due to potential wait times and avoid making final travel arrangements before their interview.
To cancel or reschedule an appointment, applicants need their confirmation ID. Failure to attend without rescheduling could result in cancellation of the DS-160 form.
Visa fees must be paid at the embassy on the appointment day in cash; online payment options are unavailable. Some applicants might also have to pay an additional reciprocity fee depending on nationality and visa category.
Interviews will generally be conducted in English or French, but other language options may be available. Translators are permitted but must not be family members and require prior notification via email.
Regarding personal belongings, only mobile phones are allowed inside the embassy premises; laptops and tablets are prohibited.
For approved applications during interviews, processing typically takes ten business days with additional time for delivery within Luxembourg. However, further administrative processing might extend this timeline up to 60 days depending on individual circumstances.
Post-interview passport delivery requires pre-paid self-addressed envelopes from applicants who prefer not returning personally to collect them.
Applicants should verify details upon receiving their visas and ensure compatibility between visa expiration dates and planned travels to avoid complications during entry into the United States.
In cases where passports expire while holding valid visas, travelers can use both old and new passports as long as both documents belong to similar categories from one country. Changes in legal names necessitate obtaining new passports and possibly applying for new visas.