B-1/B-2 Reminder: Get a visa interview in just 10 days for an additional $750; learn about new pilot program starting July 1
New pilot program will begin on July 1, 2026 and will provide support to qualified B-1/B-2 visitors visa In addition to paying the regular application fee of $185, applicants may purchase expedited interview opportunities at designated U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.
according to State Councilyou now need to pay an additional $750 to get an interview within 10 days.
The program will run through Dec. 31, 2026, giving the State Department six months to assess needs and operational effectiveness before deciding whether to make it a permanent fixture.
What is a B-1/B-2 visa?
Foreigners intending to visit the United States need to obtain a visa in advance, which can be a short-stay non-immigrant visa or an immigrant visa visa For long term stay. A visitor visa is a non-immigrant visa category designated for persons seeking temporary entry into the United States for business purposes (B-1 view), leisure (B-2 visa), or both (B-1/B-2 visa).
What the B-1/B-2 $750 fee actually provides
The $750 fee guarantees one specific benefit: a faster interview appointment. It does not alter the screening process, circumvent any eligibility criteria, or increase an applicant’s likelihood of approval. All standard review protocols remained unchanged. In addition, expedited appointments are subject to availability, and each consulate will be limited to a certain number of spots to prevent significant disruption to other applicants’ waiting times.
this cost Refunds are non-refundable if the applicant misses or cancels an expedited appointment.
B-1/B-2 visa application fee details
Standard B-1/B-2 visa application fee: $185
Rush appointment fee: $750
Total: $935
B-1/B-2 Visas: Timing Reasons
The U.S. State Department recognizes that wait times for some overseas positions can exceed a year, creating a backlog that complicates U.S. travel plans for millions of applicants. The pilot program is designed to evaluate the feasibility of a fee-based fast lane option as a potential solution for travelers with emergency plans.
The timing of the move is also strategic. The program will launch ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, two major events that are expected to significantly increase global demand for U.S. tourist visas as the United States prepares to host the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
How it works and its impact on Indians
Applicants facing genuine humanitarian crises or emergencies can continue to take advantage of the current emergency expedited request route, which operates separately from the newly launched paid scheme. The $750 fee represents an additional level of service and is not a replacement for current arrangements.
For Indian travelers, who often experience some of the longest wait times for U.S. visa appointments worldwide, this new option could provide significant assistance to those with clear intentions to travel and the ability to pay the extra cost.
