Overview
- The Department of State confirmed a pilot starting July 1, 2026 that lets B‑1 and B‑2 applicants pay an extra US$750 to secure an interview within 10 business days.
- Applicants must first complete the DS‑160, pay the regular US$185 processing fee, and hold a conventional appointment reservation before opting into and paying for the expedited service.
- Paying the fee only speeds the appointment date and does not change background checks, adjudication standards, administrative-review timing, or guarantee visa approval.
- The expedited fee is non‑refundable if an applicant cancels or misses the appointment and the Department will publish the list of participating posts on travel.state.gov before the July 1 launch.
- The pilot responds to long consular backlogs in high‑demand posts and will be assessed through year‑end to decide whether to extend or expand the program, a change that could shift who can travel faster and who benefits from paid acceleration.