US Embassy Interview 2026: Pay $750 for Faster B-1/B-2 Visa Appointment

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has issued a Temporary Final Rule (TFR) establishing a fee-based expedited interview scheduling option for B-1/B-2 nonimmigrant visa applicants. Effective July 1 through December 31, 2026, applicants may pay $750 on top of the standard $185 visa application fee to secure an interview appointment within 10 business days, subject to post capacity. The pilot program is designed to address severe backlogs at certain U.S. consular posts, where wait times for routine appointments currently exceed 12 months in some locations. The global average wait time sits at approximately 30 days, but demand is unevenly distributed. The new fee-based lane aims to offer a predictable, self-serve alternative to the existing no-fee expedite process, which requires individualized review and places strain on consular staff. Importantly, the $750 fee only purchases faster access to an interview slot — it does not accelerate visa adjudication or administrative processing after the interview. Standard eligibility requirements remain fully unchanged. Consular officers retain full discretion to deny or approve applications through normal adjudication procedures regardless of how the appointment was scheduled. For families of EB-3 petitioners or applicants traveling internationally who need B-1/B-2 visas, this option may provide meaningful flexibility when urgent travel arises. It could also benefit dependents or relatives visiting while a principal applicant's green card case is pending. Enhanced passport return (passback) options may also be available at participating posts. DOS is expected to publish a list of participating consular posts on travel.state.gov. Public comments on the rule are accepted through July 9, 2026. Whether the program will be extended beyond December 31, 2026 will depend on the outcome of this proof-of-concept pilot.