NewsFlash! DOS Launches Pilot Program for $750 Expedited B-1/B-2 Visa Interview Appointments

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has published a temporary final rule (TFR) creating a new $750 fee that will allow certain business and tourism visa applicants to secure an expedited visa interview appointment. The TFR is effective from 01.Jul.2026 through 31.Dec.2026. The new service is being offered as a limited pilot, or proof-of-concept, to test demand among applicants who wish to bypass longer visa interview wait times.

How it Works

Under the new program, B-1/B-2 nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants who pay the $750 expedited appointment fee may obtain an interview appointment within ten business days, subject to the availability of expedited appointments at the location selected. The service is optional and is in addition to the standard NIV application fee. It will be available only to B-1/B-2 applicants, only at limited overseas posts, and in limited quantities. The list of participating posts will be published on travel.state.gov for the duration of the TFR.

The expedited appointment fee speeds up only the scheduling of the interview. It does not guarantee that a visa will be issued and does not accelerate the adjudication of the application itself.

Conclusion

For frequent business travelers and visitors facing long appointment backlogs, the new option may offer meaningful relief where it is available. Because the service is limited by post and by capacity, and because it remains a pilot subject to change, applicants should monitor travel.state.gov for the current list of participating posts and confirm availability before relying on the expedited option for travel.

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