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Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

Filing the DS-260 is one of the most critical steps in the immigrant visa process. It’s a detailed form that gathers biographic, travel, and background information about a foreign national seeking permanent residence in the United States. But what happens if you spot a mistake after clicking “submit”? Whether it’s a small typo or a significant error, acting quickly and strategically is essential.

Fortunately, there are ways to correct DS-260 mistakes without starting your application from scratch, and our Chicago immigration attorney, Shobhana Kasturi, can help. Here’s how.

Correcting Mistakes Without Starting Over

Common DS-260 Errors That Can Cause Delays

Not all mistakes are deal-breakers, but some can raise concerns if not corrected before your consular interview.

Common issues include:

  • Misspelled names or incorrect birthdates.
  • Incorrect country of birth or citizenship.
  • Wrong marital status.
  • Failure to list prior addresses or employment.
  • Missing details about previous visa denials or travel history.
  • Incomplete information about family members.

Even if the error seems minor, it may be flagged during security checks or create inconsistencies that delay or jeopardize your visa approval.

What You Should Do If You Notice an Error After Submission

Once you submit the DS-260 online, you can no longer access the system and edit the form yourself. However, that does not mean you have to abandon the process or start over.

There are practical ways to fix errors before your interview:

If your case is still at the NVC and has not yet been scheduled for an interview, you may be able to notify them through the public inquiry form. Be sure to include your case number, full name, and a clear explanation of the error. If the change is material, they may add a note to your case file.

  • Prepare a Written Correction for the Interview

If your interview has already been scheduled or you only discover the mistake after receiving your appointment notice, bring a signed, written explanation to your interview. Clearly outline the error, what the correct information should be, and why the mistake happened. Supporting documentation can strengthen your explanation.

  • Inform the Consular Officer During the Interview

Always be upfront during the interview. Consular officers routinely ask if any changes have occurred since submission. This is your opportunity to explain and correct the issue. Being honest and well-prepared shows good faith and can help resolve concerns on the spot.

What Not to Do When You Find an Error

Avoid submitting a second DS-260 form unless specifically instructed by the NVC or consulate. Doing so can create confusion in your file and lead to delays. Also, do not ignore a mistake in hopes it will go unnoticed. Even minor discrepancies can raise red flags when your background is reviewed.

Instead, document everything and seek legal advice if the error could be interpreted as material or misleading, especially in cases involving marital history, visa denials, or security questions.

When Legal Help Can Make a Difference

If you are unsure whether the error is significant or how to explain it clearly, an immigration attorney can help you draft a correction letter, gather the proper documents, and prepare you for the interview. This guidance is critical when the mistake involves sensitive topics like past immigration violations, incorrect names, or misstatements about dependents or sponsors.

At Kasturi Law, our immigration attorney helps clients throughout Illinois, including those in Arlington Heights, Aurora, Champaign, Chicago, Naperville, Schaumburg, and surrounding cities, resolve complex visa challenges with confidence. Whether you prefer to meet in person or schedule a virtual consultation, our online calendar makes it easy to book a 30-minute or 60-minute session.

Let us help you fix the problem and keep your case moving in the right direction.