Most people familiar with US Immigration know that once you have submitted the DS-160 form, you cannot reopen it to make any changes. Accordingly, if there is a material change requiring information to be updated, there are two efficient ways to reuse information from a previously submitted application to create and submit a new/updated DS-160:

• The first option is to log into the CEAC system and select “Retrieve an application” using the previous application ID number. Next, you will be asked whether you want to go to the confirmation page or create a new application. Select “Create a New Application,” and much of the form will auto-populate. Then, you will need to edit and update the information, and once accurate, submit the new application, which will generate a new confirmation page.
• Alternatively, if you saved the DAT file from the original application to a hard drive or disk, you can access and amend the previous application at any time. You can select “Upload a Previously Saved Application” on the Getting Started page. Once the changes have been made, save and submit the new application, which will generate a new confirmation page. (Note: permanently saving your application to a hard drive/disk will allow you to access your application after 30 days.)

For either option, if the original DS-160 was used to book the visa appointment and/or pay the MRV fee, the applicant is required to present the confirmation pages from the new AND original DS-160 at the interview. This is because each submission creates a different barcode, and a consular officer uses the application ID/barcode to retrieve the application. While not required, it is best practice to have the applicant print out and carry all pages of the new DS-160 application in the event the officer cannot retrieve/access the new application (e.g., should there be a system outage.) The applicant should also be prepared to accurately explain to the officer any material changes, related issues, and need for the updated DS-160. (*AILA Doc. No. 13011146).

We regularly update our blog section to acquaint the community with to latest changes in Immigration policies. Please note the information in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be nor should it be construed as legal advice. We can promptly and efficiently represent clients located anywhere in the US or abroad on US Immigration Policies. If you seek further clarification, don't hesitate to contact SanSha Law Office at [email protected] or call us at 469-777-6161.