With most visa applications, male and female applicants fill out the same forms in the same manner. However, due to security concerns, some male applicants may need to provide additional information on their applications. For example, Form DS-157 (Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application) must be completed by any male applicant between the ages of 16 and 54 who is filing for a nonimmigrant visa. Form DS-157 must be submitted at the same time as DS-156 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application). The role of immigration form DS157 is to determine visa eligibility and classification. There is no filing fee associated with this form and the form is only one page long, so that it is not too complicated to file. Applicants can file Form DS157 at the US embassy or consulate where they are applying for their nonimmigrant visa.
Some applicants who are filing a K-1 visa for their fiancés, for example, may be required to submit DS 157, too. USCIS Form DS-157 provides additional background information about an applicant, allowing the USCIS to make a decision about visas. If you are a male between the ages of 16 and 54 and are visiting a US embassy or consulate to file an application for any nonimmigrant visa, it is a good idea to download the latest version of the Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form from the USCIS website and bring the completed form with you, just in case it is needed.
Form DS-157 asks applicants to submit information about military services, weapons training, educational achievements and degrees, past travel history, and other related topics. The aim of the form is to help immigration officials to determine whether there is a need for a security advisory opinion for the applicant.
Form DS157 was instituted after September 11, 2001, when increased security concerns led immigration officials to look more closely at male immigrants, especially, immigrating into the US. It is thought that the State Department places special scrutiny on male immigration applicants from specific countries, but the department has declined to release a list of which countries may be subject to such scrutiny. Currently, all male applicants in the target age range must submit DS 157 when applying for a US nonimmigrant visa, regardless of country of origin. However, US consulates and applicants who use the online nonimmigrant visa form (Form DS-160) do not need to file USCIS Form DS-157. Form DS-160 uses many of the same questions as the Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form.
