The US State Department has introduced a six-month pilot that lets business (B-1) and tourist (B-2) visa applicants buy an earlier interview date for an additional US $750. The Non-immigrant Visa Expedited Appointment Pilot Programme, live since 1 July and running until 31 December 2026, initially covers US consular posts in Mexico, with more locations expected. Indian applicants—who face wait times of 150–500 days at the five US missions in India—may benefit if New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad or Kolkata join the scheme, though the State Department has not confirmed expansion. To use the option, an applicant must first pay the regular US $185 MRV fee, book a standard slot and then, if eligible, select “Paid Expedite” to see 10-day appointments. Critically, the extra fee buys only the interview date; it does not accelerate post-interview processing or guarantee approval. No-shows or cancellations forfeit the fee. Immigration counsel advise companies to balance urgency against cost and to maintain robust invitation letters and documentation, as security screening remains unchanged. For mobility managers, the pilot offers a stop-gap for last-minute C-suite travel, deal closings and emergency support visits, but should not replace long-range visa planning. HR teams should update travel policies to clarify reimbursement rules for the US $750 charge and educate travellers about the limitations—especially that administrative processing could still delay entry. Firms should also watch for potential rollout to India and budget accordingly in FY 2026-27 travel forecasts.
Source: Business Today
