The United States is launching a pilot program that allows certain nonimmigrant visa applicants to pay a $750 premium fee to secure an interview appointment within 10 business days.
This temporary initiative, introduced by the U.S. Department of State in June 2026, aims to alleviate major scheduling backlogs and help travelers arrange urgent trips.
Key Details of the Pilot Program
Timeline: The program runs from July 1 to December 31, 2026.
Target Visas: It specifically applies to B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourism) visitor visas.
The Cost: The $750 fee is an optional premium add-on. It must be paid in addition to the standard $185 base application fee.
Availability: Slots will be offered in limited quantities at select U.S. embassies and consulates globally.Crucial Constraints & Fine Print
No Guaranteed Approval: Paying the premium fee does not improve your chances of getting a visa.
No Faster Processing: It only fast-tracks the scheduling of your interview, not the subsequent administrative processing or background check times.
Standard Rules Apply: Applicants must still meet all normal eligibility, documentation, and security vetting requirements.
The official list of participating diplomatic missions is expected to be published on the State Department’s Visa Appointment Service website.
How It Works
To access the expedited scheduling queue, applicants must follow these procedural steps:
Submit Regular Application: Complete the Form DS-160 online via Visa Appointment Wait Times – Travel.
Pay Base Fee: Submit the regular non-refundable $185 visa fee.
Schedule First Appointment: Secure the standard, earliest available slot in the regular queue.
Upgrade Option: If the specific consular post participates in the pilot program and has open expedited slots, an online option will appear to pay the $750 fee and claim an interview date within 10 business days.
