DOS Announces Expedited Tourist Visa Appointment Pilot Program

On August 18, 2026, the U.S. Department of State announced that it is testing an expedited interview appointment program for tourist (B status) visas as select U.S. Embassies/Consulates. The pilot program will run through December 21, 2026. The program is optional/voluntary, and not required of visa applicants at the designated consular locations. Under the program, applicants could pay a $750 fee to schedule a visa interview within 10 business days (subject to availability).

The pilot program only applies to tourist (B visa) applications. No other nonimmigrant visa types are included in this program.

For details, please see the announcement on the U.S. Department of State website here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/niv-visa-expedited-appointment-pilot-program.html