Starting July 1, 2026, B1/B2 visa applicants can opt for a $750 fee for quicker interview appointments at designated US consulates. The US State Department is launching a pilot program that permits specific B1/B2 visitor visa applicants to pay an extra $750 for expedited visa interview appointments. This optional service will be accessible exclusively at designated US embassies and consulates from July 1 to December 31, 2026. Although it offers faster access to interview slots, it does not alter the visa approval process.The US State Department's pilot program allows B1/B2 visa applicants to pay $750 for expedited interview appointments at select embassies. (Unsplash)The program is an optional premium service available for candidates applying for B1/B2 visitor visas, which facilitate business and tourism travel to the United States. By paying an extra $750, they may request an interview appointment within 10 business days, depending on availability. This fee is in addition to the standard $185 visa application fee. The pilot program will operate for six months to assist the US in evaluating the demand for expedited interview scheduling.Also Read: NRI with $6mn portfolio considers moving back to India after 23 years in US, sparks online buzz; ‘Feel like an outsider’US' $750 expedited visa interviews: 5 things to knowPaying the extra $750 merely allows applicants to obtain an earlier interview appointment. It does not expedite the visa processing following the interview, enhance the likelihood of approval, or ease eligibility criteria. Each applicant will still be subjected to the same screening and adjudication procedures. A visa may still be denied even if the premium interview option is utilized.This pilot program is being introduced as numerous US embassies are still facing significant interview backlogs. The State Department states that the premium service aims to facilitate access to interview appointments for those applicants willing to pay for expedited scheduling, while also assessing whether this model can effectively manage demand. The program is set to continue until December 31, 2026, at which point the government will evaluate its continuation.Before selecting the premium option, applicants should keep in mind that this service is completely optional and is only offered in select locations. The extra fee is intended for expedited interview scheduling, not for visa approval. Those who choose not to use this service may still proceed with the standard visa application process. It is also recommended that applicants visit the US State Department website to verify which embassies are participating and to check appointment availability prior to making any travel arrangements.The newly introduced premium interview option is designed for travelers who require a US visa appointment more urgently and are prepared to pay for quicker access. However, the additional fee of $750 solely accelerates the interview scheduling process—it does not enhance the likelihood of obtaining a visa or ensure approval. Applicants should thoughtfully consider the expense in relation to their travel requirements and confirm the availability of this service at their selected US embassy or consulate before deciding to pursue the expedited interview program.Shweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read MoreSee Less