The first step for a prospective nonimmigrant exchange visitor is to be accepted in an established exchange visitor program that is Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certified.

Applicants for nonimmigrant visas must complete the DS-160 online application form.

Applicants must also upload a color photograph to the DS-160 online application.  If you are unable to upload a photograph, complete the remainder of the application and bring a photograph to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy on the day of your interview.  Please review the Department of State’s photograph requirements for visa applications on its Photograph Requirements website.

In general, the applicant’s head, including both face and hair, should be visible in its entirety.  It is preferable that ears be exposed.  Head coverings and hats are only acceptable due to religious beliefs, and even then, may not cover any portion of the applicant’s face.  Sunglasses or any other wear which detracts from the face are not acceptable unless required for medical reasons (an eye patch, for example).  Digitally reproduced photographs must be reproduced without discernible pixels or dot patterns.  Photocopied photographs are NOT accepted.

After electronically submitting your application, print the confirmation page.  You will need to bring the confirmation page to your visa interview.

Once a DS-160 online application has been submitted, you cannot change or add information to your application at the visa interview.  Significant errors in your application, or information incorrectly marked as “Not Applicable,” “Nil,” or “Don’t Know,” may result in your visa application being rejected at the time of your interview.

Make an appointment online. You must submit your completed DS-160 online application form before scheduling your interview appointment.

If there are no appointments available, please try back another time. Individuals may only request an expedited visa appointment for urgent reasons.  Expedited appointment requests for the convenience of a traveler will not be approved.

Expedited or Special Interview Appointment: If you would like to request an expedited appointment for an interview, or if you require a special interview (such as a group interview), please send an email explaining your circumstances to consularbamako@state.gov.