A new pilot program set to begin on July 1, 2026, will enable qualified B-1/B-2 visitor visa applicants to buy an expedited interview slot at designated US embassies and consulates abroad, in addition to the regular $185 application fee.
According to the State Department, applicants can now pay an extra $750 to secure an interview within 10 days.
The program will run until December 31, 2026, providing the State Department with a six-month period to evaluate demand and operational effects before determining whether to establish it as a permanent fixture.
The $750 fee secures one specific benefit: a quicker interview appointment. It does not alter the screening process, does not circumvent any eligibility criteria, and does not enhance an applicant's likelihood of approval.
All standard vetting protocols remain intact. Additionally, the expedited appointment is contingent upon availability and will be limited to a certain number of slots per consulate to prevent significant disruptions to wait times for other applicants.
