The U.S. Department of State announced today a groundbreaking pilot program that could dramatically slash tourist visa interview wait times to just 10 business days — but it comes at a steep price of $750 for expedited service.
Starting July 1, 2026, eligible B-1/B-2 visitor visa applicants will have the option to pay an additional fee for faster interview appointments at select U.S. embassies and consulates. The program runs through December 31, 2026, with the possibility of extension based on demand.
What Travelers Need to Know
For the first time, tourists and business travelers facing year-long visa backlogs can opt into a premium appointment system. The total cost for the expedited service is $935 — combining the standard $185 visa application fee with the new $750 fast-track fee.
Important caveat: The $750 fee is nonrefundable if applicants miss or cancel their appointment, and the expedited interview does not guarantee visa approval. Applicants must still meet all eligibility requirements and complete standard screening procedures.
Why the U.S. Is Rolling This Out
The timing is critical. The State Department is wrestling with wait times exceeding one year at some embassies and up to two years at certain consulates worldwide. The backlog has become especially problematic ahead of major international events:
- 2026 FIFA World Cup: Expected to bring over 1 million foreign tourists to U.S. stadiums
- 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Los Angeles preparing for massive international visitor surge
“This pilot program addresses urgent demand from travelers with time-sensitive plans,” said a State Department spokesperson. “We’re evaluating demand and operational impacts before deciding whether to make this permanent.”
Current Crisis in Visa Processing
The new program highlights the severity of current delays. In India alone, wait times vary dramatically by city:
- New Delhi: 2-month average wait, 8 months for next appointment
- Mumbai: 2.5-month average wait, 7 months for next appointment
- Chennai: 1.5-month average wait, approximately 2 months for next appointment
- Hyderabad & Kolkata: 2.5-month average wait, 4 months for next appointment
The program will be available at select U.S. embassies and consulates only, with limited appointment slots capped to avoid significantly increasing wait times for regular applicants.
Key Points
- New fast-track program: B-1/B-2 visa applicants can pay $750 extra for faster interview appointments
- 10-day wait time: Eligible travelers could secure a U.S. tourist visa interview within 10 business days at selected embassies
- Pilot period: Program runs July 1 – December 31, 2026; may be extended based on demand
- Total cost: $935 ($185 standard fee + $750 expedited fee)
- Nonrefundable: The $750 fee is not refunded if you miss or cancel your appointment
Bottom Line
The U.S. is introducing a $750 premium visa service for faster interview appointments starting July 1, 2026, cutting wait times to approximately 10 business days at select embassies. This is an optional fast-track option for travelers with urgent plans facing long visa backlogs, but it does not guarantee approval. With wait times exceeding a year at some locations and major events like the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics approaching, the program aims to ease booking pressure for time-sensitive travelers. Check official State Department websites for participating embassies before applying.
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