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The US $750 expedited visa interview fee lets some visitor-visa applicants pay for a faster appointment, and the pilot is due to end on 31 December 2026. According to immigration law firm EIG Law, the fee applies to B1/B2 applicants and is paid on top of the standard $185 application fee.
What you need to know
- How the pilot works
- What the fee does not do
- Who might use it
- Other US changes to track
- What happens next
- Questions about the $750 fee
How the pilot works
EIG says applicants first secure a standard appointment and can then upgrade to an expedited slot, if one is available, with an interview offered within 10 business days. The pilot is limited to selected US embassies and consulates. Sources differ slightly on timing: EIG gives a 1 July start, while Khaleej Times says the programme launched in June.
What the fee does not do
EIG stresses that the fee covers interview scheduling only, not the decision. Payment does not guarantee approval, slots are limited, and missing the appointment or failing to pay means losing the slot and the fee. EIG says the document does not address refunds. The State Department is to review results by year-end to decide whether to continue, change the price or expand the scheme.
Who might use it
Consider a hypothetical Brazilian founder who needs a B1/B2 visa for a trade show in a few weeks and faces a long wait at her local consulate. The pilot may help only if her post is on the list and a slot is open. It does not change eligibility, so a weak application stays weak. Always use official State Department channels to book, and be wary of third parties selling slots.
Other US changes to track
The visa landscape is shifting on several fronts. See our coverage of the October 2026 Visa Bulletin, the public charge rule change and the diversity visa update.
What happens next
If you need an appointment before the end of the year, check your consulate’s booking page for an expedited option now. After 31 December, availability depends on the State Department’s review.
Questions about the $750 fee
Who can use the expedited option?
B1/B2 visa applicants only, at selected posts, per EIG.
How much does it cost?
$750 on top of the $185 application fee.
How fast is the interview?
Within 10 business days, subject to slot availability.
Does it guarantee a visa?
No. It affects scheduling only.
When does the pilot end?
31 December 2026, with a review to follow.
See our immigration section for further US visa updates, including the Supreme Court detention case.
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