Some B1/B2 visa applicants may soon have a new way to get a faster visa interview appointment.
According to recent reports, the U.S. Department of State is planning a pilot program that would allow certain business and tourist visa applicants to pay an additional $750 fee for an expedited interview appointment at selected U.S. embassies and consulates.
This does not mean the visa will be approved faster. It only means that eligible applicants may be able to get an interview appointment sooner.
What Is the New $750 Option?
The reported program is an optional expedited interview appointment service for certain B1/B2 visa applicants.
B1/B2 visas are commonly used for temporary travel to the United States, including business visits, tourism, visiting family, and certain short-term visitor purposes.
Under the reported pilot program, applicants who qualify and pay the additional $750 fee may be able to schedule a visa interview within 10 days of payment at selected U.S. embassies or consulates. This fee would be in addition to the regular visa application fee.
Is This the Same as Premium Processing?
No.
This is an important point.
In U.S. immigration, “premium processing” usually refers to a USCIS service for certain petitions, such as some employment-based petitions.
The reported B1/B2 option is different. It is about getting a faster visa interview appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate. It does not guarantee visa approval, and it does not mean the consular officer will approve the case faster.
The visa decision will still be made after the interview.
When Would It Start?
Current reports say the pilot program is expected to run from July 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026.
Because this is a pilot program, it may be changed, extended, or discontinued later.
Will It Be Available in Every Country?
Not necessarily.
Reports say the service would be available only at selected U.S. embassies and consulates. The participating locations have not yet been fully announced.
This means applicants should not assume the option will be available everywhere.
Before paying any extra fee, applicants should check the official visa appointment website for the country where they are applying.
Does Paying $750 Guarantee Visa Approval?
No.
Paying for a faster appointment does not guarantee that the visa will be issued.
The consular officer will still review the DS-160, ask interview questions, and decide whether the applicant qualifies for a B1/B2 visa.
Applicants still need to be ready to explain:
- why they are traveling to the United States
- how long they plan to stay
- how they will pay for the trip
- why they will return after the visit
- whether their documents and answers are consistent
Be Careful Before Paying Any Extra Fee
Applicants should be careful about scams.
If this option becomes available, it should be offered only through official U.S. visa appointment systems or official embassy/consulate instructions.
Be careful if someone promises guaranteed approval, a secret appointment slot, or asks for payment through an unofficial method.
What Applicants Should Do Now
For now, B1/B2 applicants should continue checking the official visa appointment website for their country.
If the $750 expedited interview option becomes available at their embassy or consulate, applicants should read the instructions carefully before paying.
This option may help some applicants get an earlier interview date, but it does not change the basic visa requirements.
General Information Only
This article is for general informational purposes only. Visa appointment procedures, fees, and availability can change by country and by U.S. embassy or consulate. Applicants should always check official government instructions before paying any visa-related fee or making travel plans.