Form DS-260 is an online application form used by the United States Department of State for immigrant visa applicants. It is officially known as the “Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application.” Form DS-260 is used by individuals who are seeking to immigrate to the United States based on family-sponsored, employment-based, or diversity visa (DV) programs.

Key features of Form DS-260 include:

Online submission: Form DS-260 is completed and submitted electronically through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website, which is operated by the U.S. Department of State. Applicants must create an account and log in to access the form.

Biographical information: The DS-260 form collects biographical information about the applicant, including full name, date and place of birth, marital status, contact information, and details about family members.

Immigration history: Applicants are required to provide details about their immigration history, including previous visits to the United States, immigration status, and any prior applications for U.S. visas or immigrant visas.

Background and security information: The form includes questions about the applicant’s background, including criminal history, medical conditions, and involvement in terrorist activities or human trafficking.

Education and work history: Applicants must provide information about their educational background, including schools attended and degrees obtained, as well as their work history and employment experience.

Supporting documents: Applicants may be required to submit supporting documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, police certificates, and medical examination reports, along with their DS-260 application.

Once the DS-260 form is submitted, it is reviewed by the National Visa Center (NVC) and forwarded to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate for further processing. Applicants may be required to attend an in-person visa interview at the embassy or consulate as part of the immigrant visa application process. It’s important for applicants to carefully review and accurately complete the DS-260 form to avoid delays or complications in the visa application process.