The United States will begin testing a new premium visa appointment service from July 1 that allows some tourist and business travellers to secure interview dates within 10 business days but at a significantly higher cost.
Under the pilot initiative introduced by the U.S. Department of State, eligible applicants for B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourist) visas will be able to pay an additional $750 to access accelerated interview scheduling at selected U.S. embassies and consulates. The service is scheduled to run through December 31, 2026.
The new option does not replace the standard visa process. Applicants must still complete the usual application steps, including submitting the DS-160 form and paying the regular visa application charge before becoming eligible for premium scheduling. Authorities say the accelerated route is designed only to shorten the wait for interview appointments, not influence visa decisions.
For applicants who choose the fast-track route, the costs add up quickly. The existing visa application fee remains $185, while the optional premium scheduling charge adds another $750, bringing the total to $935. U.S. officials emphasised that paying more does not increase approval chances and does not change screening standards.
The State Department said the programme is intended to test demand for faster appointment access while helping manage pressure on visa systems in locations facing long wait times. The initiative also comes during a period of heightened travel demand ahead of major international events in North America, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Not every embassy or consulate will participate in the pilot. U.S. authorities said the service will initially be offered only at selected locations, with additional operational details expected before the launch date. Existing emergency and humanitarian appointment pathways will continue separately from the paid option.
Applicants considering the service are expected to apply through official visa channels and review embassy-specific instructions once participating locations are announced. Whether the programme becomes permanent may depend on demand and results recorded during the six-month trial period.
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