Starting May 1, 2025, those applying for non-immigrant visas (NIV) at the U.S. Embassy in La Paz must ensure that their online non-immigrant visa application, known as the DS-160 form, has a confirmation number matching the number used to schedule their appointment. Failure to present matching numbers at their interview will result in the need to reschedule and potentially incur additional visa fees.
This new policy aims to address the issue often caused when travel agencies or visa service companies book interview appointments prior to applicants completing their visa applications. "Visa applicants whose appointments were reserved by a third party should pay particular attention to this announcement," noted an embassy spokesperson.
Applicants, along with their travel agents, are urged to verify that their Visa Application ID Number (DS-160) matches the information in the Visa Appointment System, accessible at https://ais.usvisa-info.com. If discrepancies are found, the correct application number must be entered in the system before the interview. The application number can be updated once without canceling the existing appointment.
For those needing assistance with the application number update, guidance is available at the Contáctenos section of the official U.S. Department of State Visa Appointment Service, specifically tailored for Bolivia.
Applicants should also remember to bring their DS-160 confirmation page to the interview. "Applicants are reminded that they are ultimately responsible for the information they present for their visa interview, whether they used a travel agent or application assistant." This measure aligns with broader global guidance applicable to all U.S. embassies.