If you will be applying for a U.S. visa in 2025, there is going to be an invoice-new interview requirement starting in April 2025, and neglecting to follow it could bring some unexpected delays or rescheduling trouble into the picture.
The state department set a very important rule: your DS-160 visa application barcode has to match to the very last character the barcode that you used to make that visa appointment.
What Happens in the U.S. Visa Process?
Another marginal change was made by the applicant to the DS-160 form after making an appointment, but this will no longer exist after March 18, 2025. These are the particulars:
- Your DS-160 barcode number must, indeed, match the one tied to your visa appointment.
- If those barcodes don’t match, you will be refused admission to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Applicants must reschedule with the correct DS-160 barcode to proceed.
- This change applies to all visa types-groups like tourist (B1/B2), student (F1), work (H1B), and immigrant visas.
How to Avoid Delays in Visa Processing?
To maximize your chances of an easy and problem-free interview, please go through the following steps:
- Confirm your DS-160 barcode number before your interview, for it must match the one in your appointment confirmation.
- Print and take with you to interview the DS-160 confirmation page that is correct.
- If there is any mismatch, just reschedule it immediately through the official U.S. visa appointment service.
Barcode Mismatch- What Happens Now?
A barcode mismatch means you will not be permitted inside the Embassy or Consulate, with only one rescheduling your appointment. This could mean being months delayed, especially for application centers with high demand, where slots for interviews get filled up quickly.
Why This Update Matters to Visa Applicants
Considering visa wait times are already long in many countries, an error in a single barcode could completely derail your travel plans. While the new rule strives to reduce errors and speed up processing, applicants have more reason than ever to be careful when submitting their forms.
Pro Tip: Spend a few extra minutes confirming your DS-160 details—it could save you from costly delays and keep your visa journey on track.
For official updates, visit the U.S. Embassy website.