Starting May 2, 2025, non-immigrant visa applicants to the Consular Sections in Astana and Almaty need to finalize appointments by 5:00 p.m. three business days before their interviews. For interviews scheduled for May 2, the DS-160 visa information must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on April 28.
Applicants must ensure several details are correct three business days before the interview:
The barcode number on the DS-160 confirmation letter must match the DS-160 barcode number in the appointment system. Common errors include using the letter "O" instead of the number "0." The barcode always starts with "AA00," using the number 0.
The interview location on the DS-160 must match the scheduled interview location. If there is a mismatch, for instance scheduling an interview in Astana while the DS-160 lists Almaty, a new DS-160 must be completed and updated in the appointment system.
If an applicant missed a prior interview and was marked a "no-show," a new DS-160 must be completed, and the barcode updated at least three business days before the interview.
The DS-160 application must be complete and submitted. Leaving the application open until the day before the interview could result in cancellation. Incomplete applications will lead to canceling the interview, marking the applicant as a no-show, and requiring rescheduling.
Applicants using a third-party visa agent must ensure all DS-160 requirements are met. The website https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/ can be used for checking, completing, or redoing DS-160 applications.
Instructions to update DS-160 barcode numbers include logging into the account at https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-kz/niv, editing the "DS-160 Number" field, saving, and attending the scheduled appointment.