What is the $750 Expedited Program?
The US Department of State has launched a temporary pilot program called the Nonimmigrant Visa (NIV) Expedited Appointment Program. This optional service allows eligible applicants for B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourist) visas to pay an additional $750 fee
to schedule a visa interview within 10 business days, subject to availability. This is a premium service layered on top of the standard process. Applicants must still pay the regular $185 Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee. The total cost for someone using this option would be over $900 per person. This temporary program is scheduled to run through December 31, 2026, after which it will be reviewed.
Is This Option Available in India?
No. As of August 2026, the U.S. embassies and consulates in India—located in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata—are not participating in this paid expedite pilot. The program was launched in Mexico in July 2026 and expanded on August 18, 2026, to include Canada, Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Honduras. While the State Department may add more locations during the pilot period, Indian applicants currently cannot use this $750 service when scheduling an appointment within India.
How Does the Program Work?
For applicants in participating countries, the process requires several steps. First, an applicant must complete the standard DS-160 form, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule a regular interview appointment. Only after securing a standard appointment will the system show the “Paid Expedite” option, if available. If an applicant selects this option, they must complete the $750 payment within 10 minutes to secure the earlier slot. This fee is non-refundable, and missing the appointment results in forfeiture of the money.
A Faster Interview, Not a Guaranteed Visa
It is crucial to understand that paying the $750 fee only grants access to an earlier interview date. It does not guarantee visa approval or expedite the processing of the application after the interview. All applicants, whether they pay for an earlier slot or not, undergo the same rigorous security screening and must meet all eligibility requirements to qualify for a U.S. visa. If an application is denied, the $750 fee is not returned. This service is designed for those with urgent travel needs who do not qualify for a traditional, free emergency appointment.
The Current Situation in India
The introduction of this pilot program in other countries highlights the immense pressure on the U.S. visa system globally. In India, wait times for first-time B-1/B-2 visa interviews remain significant, though they have improved from post-pandemic peaks. As of August 2026, wait times can vary drastically by consulate, from approximately four months in Kolkata to around 14 months in Mumbai. This new paid model, even though not available in India, reflects a broader strategy by the State Department to manage high demand. For now, Indian applicants must continue to navigate the existing system, which includes looking for regular appointment slots and using the interview waiver (dropbox) option if they qualify.
