Get A U.S. Visa Interview Within 10 Days For $750 

India-West News Desk

WASHINGTON, D.C.-Starting July 1, 2026, the U.S. Department of State is launching a six-month pilot program allowing B1/B2 visa applicants—those seeking to visit for tourism or business purposes—to pay a premium fee for faster interview scheduling. Through December 31, 2026, eligible individuals can pay an additional $750, separate from the standard $185 application fee, to secure an interview appointment within 10 days at select U.S. embassies and consulates.

Officials have clarified that this payment strictly secures an earlier appointment slot; it does not accelerate visa processing times or influence the outcome of the application. All applicants, regardless of the expedited fee, remain subject to standard eligibility and security vetting requirements.

This new option allows for faster scheduling without the formal, written application process required for existing emergency channels. Currently, applicants can still request a no-cost expedited interview under specific criteria: a referral by a senior U.S. diplomatic official, a priority appointment for travel that furthers U.S. national interests, or an emergency request based on humanitarian or extreme post-specific circumstances. These requests will continue to be reviewed individually by consular managers.

Industry experts believe the premium option will be a welcome solution for those with time-sensitive commitments. “To make an important business meeting or conference instead of waiting months at a busy consulate? A lot of people will pay that without thinking twice,” said immigration attorney Adrian Pandev. Attorney Steven Brown added, “Considering some folks need to travel on short notice, this isn’t a bad thing.”

This initiative arrives as travelers continue to navigate global backlogs and evolving U.S. visa regulations.