The DS-160 form is the official Online Non-immigrant Visa Application for the United States. It is required for most temporary visa categories, including tourist visas (B1/B2), student visas (F and M), and work-related visas (H, L, O, etc.). The form collects detailed personal, travel, educational, and employment information, along with security and background details, which U.S. consular officers use to evaluate your eligibility for a visa. Completing and submitting the DS-160 online is the first formal step in applying for a U.S. visa and is mandatory before scheduling your consular interview.