The short answer
After you submit the DS-160 and pay the fee, you book the interview through your embassy's official appointment system. If there are no dates, check again often, because cancelled slots come back.
What to know
- You usually need your passport number, DS-160 confirmation and fee receipt.
- Use only the official site named on your embassy's page. Be careful with sellers on social media who promise slots.
- Many embassies let you change a date once or twice, so read the rules before moving an appointment you already have.
- Waits differ a lot by embassy and visa type: compare them before you choose, if you are allowed to apply elsewhere.
For the exact rules, forms and fees, see the State Department visa website.
Visa Status is an unofficial site. This is general information in plain words, not legal advice. Rules, fees and forms change, so check the official website and your own papers. Written October 2026.