Parents planning a trip need to be aware that their children’s expired visas require the same interview process as adults. Consular Officers now interview all nonimmigrant visa applicants, regardless of age. All visa applications start with the online completion of the DS-160 form. Be cautious of vendor websites claiming expedited processing and guaranteed issuance of U.S. visas; these claims are false. The visa application process should start at least three months before the planned travel date. The child’s biographic information must be entered exactly as it appears on their passport. The documentation required for the interview includes the DS-160 visa application confirmation form, the child’s valid passport, a recent passport-size photo, and the updated version of the child’s birth certificate. Parents must accompany minor visa applicants on the day of the interview.

