Key points
- The DS-160 is the online application required for most U.S. non-immigrant visas, including B1/B2 visitor visas.
- The base government MRV (Machine Readable Visa) fee starts at $185 for most non-immigrant categories and is non-refundable, even if the visa is denied.
- Some applicants owe extra costs: a $350 SEVIS fee for F, M, and J visas, plus reciprocity fees that vary by nationality.
- You complete and submit the form through the U.S. Department of State's Consular Electronic Application Center, then bring the confirmation page to your interview.
The DS-160 visa application for the United States is rated as moderately difficult (59 out of 100). It’s the form behind most non-immigrant visas, and the government fee for it starts at $185. This guide walks through what the DS-160 is, what the fee covers, the extra costs some applicants face, and how to move through the process. The details below are general guidance rather than legal advice, so confirm the current rules with an official U.S. government source before you apply.
Understanding the DS-160 form and associated fees
The DS-160 is the online application needed for most non-immigrant visa types, including the B1/B2 visitor visa. It collects a wide range of information: your personal details, travel plans, previous visits to the U.S., international travel history, and any prior immigration issues.
Once you complete and submit it, you receive a confirmation page. You must bring that confirmation page to your visa interview along with your supporting documents.
Breaking down the DS-160 visa fee structure
The fee tied to the DS-160 is the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee, paid to the U.S. government. A few points to keep in mind:
- The base fee for most non-immigrant visas is $185.
- Some visa categories have a different fee structure.
- Fees are typically non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.
- Additional costs may apply depending on your nationality.
If you choose to use a service like iVisa to help prepare your application, that service fee is separate from and additional to the government MRV fee described here.
Navigating the DS-160 application process
The application runs through the U.S. Department of State’s online system. The main steps are:
- Visit the Consular Electronic Application Center, pick the embassy or consulate where you’ll apply, and save the Application ID it gives you — you use that ID, not an account, to save your form and return to it.
- Complete the application with your personal, educational, and work information.
- Review your answers, submit the form, and save or print the confirmation page.
Additional costs and considerations
Beyond the base MRV fee, some applicants owe more depending on their visa type and nationality.
| Fee Type | Amount | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Base MRV fee | $185 | Most non-immigrant visas |
| SEVIS fee | $350 | F, M, and J visas |
| Reciprocity fee | Varies | Depends on nationality |
Courier or delivery fees can also apply in some cases. All of these are government or third-party costs and are separate from any service fee you might pay iVisa for help with your application.
Maximizing your chances of DS-160 approval
A few habits help your application go smoothly:
- Double-check all information for accuracy before submitting.
- Provide comprehensive supporting documentation.
- Be ready to demonstrate strong ties to your home country.
- Prepare thoroughly for your visa interview.
DS-160 visa fee FAQ
Is the DS-160 fee refundable? No. The fee is generally non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied.
Are there additional costs beyond the base fee? Yes. Depending on your visa type and nationality, you may owe a SEVIS fee (for F, M, and J visas), a reciprocity fee, or courier fees.
Can I pay the fee online? Yes. The fee can be paid online through the official U.S. Department of State channels.
How long is the fee valid? The fee is typically valid for one year from the date of payment.
For more on how iVisa can help with a U.S. visitor visa, see how our U.S. B1/B2 visa service works.
