What mistakes should I avoid at my US visa OFC appointment?
06 Oct 2026 · Answered by Chaithrakala P L · 1 min read
Quick Answer
verified
Common OFC appointment mistakes include carrying prohibited items, mismatched details between your passport, DS-160 and appointment, arriving late, wearing hats or tinted glasses, and passport issues. Check your documents, appointment details and the centre's rules in advance to avoid delays.
A few small slips can cause delays at your OFC appointment, so it pays to check everything before you leave home. Most problems come down to items, details, timing, attire and your passport.
Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | What to do instead |
|---|---|
| Carrying prohibited items | Check the centre's security rules before bringing phones, smartwatches, tablets or large bags |
| Mismatched details | Make sure your passport, DS-160 and appointment details are accurate and match |
| Arriving late | Reach on time and keep extra time for security checks |
| Improper attire | Follow the photograph guidelines and skip hats or tinted glasses unless permitted |
| Passport issues | Carry a valid passport in good condition with correct details |
Doing a Quick Check the Day Before
- Compare the names and numbers across your documents
- Re-read the centre's instructions
- Plan your route and timing
My Advice
Do a calm document check the evening before, not on the way to the centre. A single mismatch between your passport and DS-160 is easier to fix at home than at the counter.
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