Facts checked against official sources on 2026-11-06
How do I retrieve a forgotten DS-160 Application ID?
Short answer
On the Retrieve a DS-160 Application page, click Forgot your Application ID, answer your security questions, and click Retrieve Application. You are taken to the last page you completed.
Official steps
- From the Retrieve a DS-160 Application page, click the "Forgot your Application ID?" link.
- In the Retrieve Application ID pop-up, enter the answers to your security questions.
- Click the Retrieve Application button. You are taken to the last page you completed.
What the State Department says
- The recovery uses the security question you chose when you started the application.
- The CEAC help page does not describe a separate process for retrieving a saved DS-160 and does not state a retention period. See the 30-day rule on the DS-160 FAQ page.
Frequently asked questions
What if I do not remember my security answers?
The CEAC help page only describes recovery by answering your security questions. If you cannot, contact the embassy or consulate handling your case.
Official sources
Rules, fees and timings change. Confirm on the official page above before you apply or pay. Krosz is a private visa assistance service, not a government authority, and cannot guarantee any visa decision.