DOS 2026 Policy Alert: $750 Expedited B-1/B-2 Visa Appointment Fee Launches in Mexico

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has introduced a temporary pilot program implementing a $750 expedited appointment fee for B-1/B-2 nonimmigrant visa applicants. Under this initiative, eligible applicants can secure a visa interview appointment within 10 business days at select U.S. consular posts. The program took effect July 1, 2026, and is scheduled to run through December 31, 2026. As of July 22, 2026, Mission Mexico — encompassing the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City and all U.S. consulates in Mexico — is the sole announced participating location. DOS has characterized the program as a 'proof of concept' pilot, designed to assess whether meaningful demand exists for a paid fast-track option. The agency cited ongoing interview backlogs, increased global travel demand, and the anticipated surge in travel related to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games as driving factors. Importantly, the expedited fee only accelerates the interview appointment date — it does not alter the adjudication process in any way. Applicants must still meet all standard visa eligibility requirements and remain subject to the same security screening and administrative processing as any other B-1/B-2 applicant. DOS has explicitly stated that payment of the fee provides no advantage in the approval decision. The program is primarily beneficial to business travelers who need to visit the United States on short notice, especially in jurisdictions where consular wait times are lengthy. However, expedited slots are capacity-limited and availability is not guaranteed. Critically, this program applies exclusively to B-1/B-2 visa applicants — other nonimmigrant and immigrant visa categories, including employment-based categories such as EB-3, are not included. Employers and foreign nationals should carefully evaluate whether the $750 fee is justified based on business necessity and current local consular wait times. Given the program's limited geographic scope and its December 31, 2026 expiration date, applicants should confirm availability before applying and continue to plan for potential post-interview processing delays regardless of how quickly the interview appointment is secured.