The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has published a temporary final rule, creating a pilot program that will allow certain B1/B2 (business/tourist) visa applicants to pay an additional $750 fee for access to expedited interview appointments. More information is provided below.

Key Highlights of the Pilot Program:

The program is scheduled to run from July 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026 and will be available only at selected U.S. embassies and consulates where expedited appointment slots are offered. In India, we expect this to be available at the U.S. Consulate, in Kolkata.

The fee is optional and is in addition to the standard $185 MRV visa application fee.

• It applies only to B1/B2 visa applicants.
• Applicants must first complete the DS-160 form, pay the MRV fee, and schedule a regular visa appointment.
• If expedited appointments are available at that post, applicants may be given the option to select an interview date within approximately 10 business days upon payment of the additional fee.
• The fee is generally non-refundable if the appointment is cancelled or missed.

Applicants should note that the fee only affects the interview appointment date. It does not increase the likelihood of visa approval and does not expedite administrative processing, or other security checks.

Additionally, the DOS has indicated that existing no-cost expedite requests based on emergencies or significant U.S. national-interest considerations will continue to be available at the discretion of the consular post.

Conclusion:

Applicants considering this option should weigh the cost against the potential benefit of obtaining an earlier interview date. For those facing lengthy appointment backlogs, the program may provide an additional scheduling option, but it does not change the legal requirements for visa eligibility. We at Murthy Immigration Services are closely monitoring this important topic and will share further updates as they become available.