The United States Department of State has launched a new premium visa interview service that allows B1/B2 visa applicants to secure interview appointments within 10 business days for an additional fee of $750.
According to a notice published in the Federal Register on June 9, 2026, the pilot programme will run from July 1 to December 31, 2026, and will be available only at selected US embassies and consulates.
The initiative is designed as an optional service for travellers who need faster access to visa interview appointments amid increasing demand and lengthy waiting times at many US diplomatic missions.
In its official statement, the State Department said the programme aims to assess interest in a fee-based expedited interview process while improving the efficiency of visa scheduling systems.
Despite the additional fee, US authorities stressed that obtaining an expedited appointment does not guarantee visa approval or issuance. Applicants must still satisfy all existing eligibility requirements, including security screenings and consular interviews.
The State Department cited rising global demand for visas and extended wait times in several countries as key reasons for the pilot. In Abuja, Nigeria, for example, applicants currently face an average wait time of approximately 11.5 months for a B1/B2 visa interview.
Officials noted that some US missions have wait times exceeding one year, creating challenges for travellers with urgent or last-minute travel needs.
The programme also comes as the US prepares for major international events expected to drive travel demand, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Under the new system, applicants must first complete the standard visa application process and book a regular interview appointment. They may then choose to pay for an earlier interview slot, subject to availability within the next 10 business days.
The service will be offered at a limited number of overseas posts, and appointment availability will remain restricted.
Applicants who choose the expedited option must pay both the standard nonimmigrant visa application fee of $185 and the additional $750 premium processing charge.
The US government described the initiative as a cost-recovery pilot programme intended to evaluate demand for premium visa interview services before considering broader implementation.
