​US' $750 expedited visa interviews: 6 things applicants should know

The US State Department is introducing a pilot programme that allows certain B1/B2 visitor visa applicants to pay an additional $750 for a faster visa interview appointment. The optional service will be available only at select US embassies and consulates from July 1 to December 31, 2026. While it promises quicker access to interview slots, it does not change the visa approval process. Here's a simple breakdown of how the programme works and who can benefit.

The programme is an optional premium service for applicants seeking B1/B2 visitor visas, which cover business and tourism travel to the US. By paying an additional $750, applicants can request an interview appointment within 10 business days, subject to availability. The fee is in addition to the standard $185 visa application fee. The pilot will run for six months to help the US assess demand for faster interview scheduling.

The premium option is not available everywhere. Only select US embassies and consulates chosen by the State Department will offer the service, and the number of expedited appointments will be limited. The list of participating diplomatic missions will be announced before the programme begins. Applicants must also meet the normal eligibility requirements for a B1/B2 visa.

Paying the additional $750 only helps applicants secure an earlier interview appointment. It does not speed up visa processing after the interview, improve approval chances, or relax eligibility rules. Every applicant will still undergo the same screening and adjudication process. A visa can still be refused even if the premium interview option is used.

The pilot comes as many US embassies continue to experience long interview backlogs. The State Department says the premium service is intended to improve access to interview appointments for applicants willing to pay for faster scheduling while testing whether such a model can help manage demand. The programme is scheduled to run until December 31, 2026, after which the government will decide whether to continue it.

Before choosing the premium option, applicants should remember that the service is entirely optional and available only in limited locations. The additional payment is for quicker interview scheduling—not for visa approval. Those who do not opt for the service can continue applying through the regular visa process. Applicants are also advised to check the US State Department website for participating embassies and appointment availability before making travel plans.

The new premium interview option is introduced for travellers who need a US visa appointment sooner and are willing to pay for faster access. However, the additional $750 only speeds up the interview scheduling process—it does not increase the chances of getting a visa or guarantee approval. Applicants should carefully weigh the cost against their travel needs and check whether the service is available at their chosen US embassy or consulate before opting for the expedited interview programme.