US Launches Pilot Program For Faster Visitor Visa Interviews For $750 More

India-West News Report

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of State has started a pilot program that allows some visitor visa applicants to pay an additional fee to get an earlier interview appointment instead of waiting for the next available slot.

The program, which will remain in place through December 31, 2026, is currently being tested at selected U.S. embassies and consulates. It was launched in Mexico on July 21, and the State Department said more locations could be added during the pilot phase.

The option is available for applicants seeking B-1/B-2 business or tourist visas. Those who already have a valid MRV fee receipt and either hold an interview appointment or are booking a new one can pay an extra $750 per applicant for an interview within 10 business days, if appointments are available.

Applicants must first complete the regular visa application process by paying the $185 MRV fee and scheduling a standard interview. If the pilot is available at their location and they qualify, a “Paid Expedite” option will appear while managing their appointment online.

The additional payment must be completed within 10 minutes after selecting the appointment. Once booked, the expedited interview cannot be changed or rescheduled. If the applicant misses the appointment, the fee will not be refunded.

The State Department said the new option is meant for travelers who need an earlier interview but do not qualify for an emergency appointment. It added that the pilot affects only the interview date and does not change the visa review process.

Officials stressed that all applicants, including those using the paid service, will go through the same security checks and eligibility review required under U.S. immigration law. Paying the extra fee does not guarantee that a visa will be approved.

The expedited fee is separate from the regular visa application fee and is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Applicants renewing visas through the interview waiver process are not eligible for the paid expedited service since it is limited to cases that require an in-person interview.

For families or groups applying together, each applicant must pay the $750 fee individually if they choose the expedited appointment option. Applicants whose requests for a regular emergency appointment were denied may still use the paid option if they meet the eligibility requirements.

The State Department said applicants using the pilot may also be offered premium passport delivery services, where available, at no additional charge. However, it reiterated that the program only provides access to an earlier interview appointment and does not guarantee visa issuance.