The Department of State (DOS) proposed an optional fee for expedited visa interviews. According to Forbes, the department proposed a pilot program for a $750 fee for expediting B1 & B2 visitor visa interviews. The pilot program goes into effect on July 1, 2026.

The proposed fees don’t let individuals skip interviews. It just ensures those that pay secure an interview within ten business days. Such a fee lets individuals bypass the backlog in the immigration system. The pilot program only lasts until December 31, 2026. It gives the State Department a chance to evaluate demand for such a fee.

In short, the rule goes into effect for the rest of the year starting on July 1, 2026. The Department of State explained that these premium fees, whether they’re for visa interviews or not, supplement existing nonimmigrant visa fees. This fee doesn’t replace the various nonimmigrant fees.

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