The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has introduced a pilot program allowing certain B-1/B-2 visa applicants to secure expedited interview appointments for a $750 fee. The program is effective from July 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026, and is designed as a limited proof-of-concept to gauge demand.
• The $750 fee is in addition to the standard nonimmigrant visa (NIV) application cost. • Expedited appointments aim to schedule interviews within ten business days, subject to availability at selected overseas posts. • The service is optional, available only to B-1/B-2 applicants, and limited in quantity. Participating posts will be listed on travel.state.gov for the duration of the pilot. • The fee accelerates only interview scheduling; it does not guarantee visa issuance or speed up application adjudication. • Availability is constrained by post and capacity; applicants must check current participating locations before relying on this service.
Takeaway: Frequent business travelers and tourists facing long visa appointment wait times may benefit from the $750 expedited interview option, but must confirm availability and understand that it does not affect visa approval timing.
Source article: www.murthy.com
