Form DS-160 is used for all visa applications for travel to the United States except for K, N, S, T, and U applications. Form DC-160 is used to collect the required information from an alien seeking a non-immigrant visa for temporary travel to the United States. Form DS-160 involves an online submission of the required processing information. United States Consular Offices use the information provided on the Form DS-160 to process the visa application and with an applicant interview, make a determination as to the applicant's eligibility for a non-immigrant visa.

Those visa applicants who are applying for K, N, S, T, or U categories should not use Form DC-160 but should use Form DC-156, Non-immigrant Visa Application.

All of the answers to Form DC-160 must be written in English and use English characters except when the applicant is asked to provide his or her name in the native alphabet in which case the applicant may use non-English characters for Form DC-160. After completing Form DC-160, the applicant should keep a copy of the Form DS-160 application and schedule an applicant interview at the United States Embassy or Consulate in his or her country.