U.S. Introduces a $750 Expedited Visa Interview Option

The U.S. Department of State is testing an optional paid expedited appointment program for eligible B-1 and B-2 visa applicants at selected U.S. embassies and consulates.

Under the program, an applicant who qualifies and finds an available expedited appointment can pay an additional $750 per appointment to obtain a visa interview within approximately 10 business days, subject to availability.

The $750 charge is separate from the standard nonimmigrant visa application fee. The current standard B-1/B-2 application fee is $185, meaning an applicant using the paid expedited option would pay a total of $935 in visa-related appointment and application fees.

Who Can Use the U.S. Expedited Appointment Option?

The program is focused on eligible applicants for B visas, which cover business and tourism travel. It is not a general fast-track service for every U.S. visa category.

The paid option is available only at participating locations and only when expedited appointments are available. Applicants must first follow the normal visa application process and meet the applicable eligibility requirements.

• It applies to eligible B-1 and B-2 visa applicants.
• The expedited appointment option is available only at selected participating locations.
• Appointments are subject to availability.
• The additional fee is $750 per appointment.
• The regular $185 application fee remains separate.
• Paying the fee does not guarantee visa approval.
• Normal security screening and visa eligibility requirements still apply.

Why the U.S. Is Testing a Paid Faster Appointment

Visa interview demand can vary significantly between countries and consular posts. Some applicants face long waits, particularly during periods of heavy international travel.

The U.S. Department of State says the pilot is intended to test demand for an expedited appointment service while maintaining the existing visa screening and security process.

The key point for travelers is simple: the program changes the timing of the interview, not the legal requirements for receiving a visa.

Japan Raises Visa Fees From July 1, 2026

Japan has also revised its visa fee structure. For visa applications accepted at overseas Japanese diplomatic missions on or after July 1, 2026, the fee converted into Japanese yen is approximately ¥15,000 for a single-entry visa and approximately ¥30,000 for a multiple-entry visa.

Japan has revised certain visa fees for applications submitted from July 1, 2026.

The exact amount paid by an applicant can vary because fees are collected in the local currency of the country or region where the Japanese embassy or consulate is located. Nationality and the purpose of travel can also affect whether a fee applies or whether a different amount is charged.

Japan's fee revision represents a significant increase from the previous standard visa charges and is part of a broader update to consular fees.

What These Changes Mean for International Travelers

For travelers, the financial impact depends on the destination and the type of application. Someone applying for a U.S. visitor visa may now have an optional way to seek an earlier interview, while a traveler applying for a Japanese visa may face a higher application fee.

The U.S. option may be useful for travelers who have a genuine time constraint and are willing to pay for an earlier appointment. However, applicants should understand that paying more does not improve their eligibility or guarantee that a visa will be issued.

For Japan, applicants should check the current fee applicable to their nationality, visa type and application location before making travel plans.

What Travelers Should Check Before Applying

• Visa category: Confirm that the visa type matches the purpose of your trip.
• Current fee: Check the latest official fee before making payment.
• Appointment availability: An expedited option does not mean an appointment is automatically available.
• Processing time: An earlier interview does not necessarily mean faster final visa processing.
• Eligibility: Applicants must still satisfy all normal immigration and visa requirements.
• Official instructions: Always follow the instructions published by the relevant embassy, consulate or government department.

Key Takeaway

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the U.S. $750 fee mandatory for a B-1 or B-2 visa?

No. The $750 payment is an optional expedited appointment fee where the program is available. Applicants can continue using the regular visa appointment process.

Does paying $750 guarantee a U.S. visa?

No. The fee provides an opportunity to obtain an earlier interview appointment when available. Applicants still have to meet all visa eligibility, screening and security requirements.

How much is Japan's new single-entry visa fee?

For applications accepted at overseas Japanese diplomatic missions from July 1, 2026, the fee converted into Japanese yen is approximately ¥15,000 for a single-entry visa. The actual amount paid can vary by location and applicable rules.

Can Japan visa fees vary by applicant?

Yes. Depending on nationality, purpose of travel and the place where the application is submitted, a fee may not apply or a different amount may be charged.

Data Sources & References

This article is based primarily on official government information and publicly available visa guidance.

• U.S. Department of State: Nonimmigrant Visa Expedited Appointment Pilot Program and official visa information.
• U.S. Federal Register: Temporary final rule establishing the $750 nonimmigrant visa appointment expedite fee.
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan: Official visa fee information and the July 1, 2026 fee revision.

Visa rules, appointment availability and fees can change. Readers should verify the latest information directly with the relevant government authority before applying or making travel arrangements.