Now Reading: India excluded from US $750 expedited visa pilot
-
01
India excluded from US $750 expedited visa pilot
The US has launched a pilot allowing eligible B-1/B-2 visa applicants in selected countries to pay an extra $750 for an earlier interview. The fee is in addition to the regular $185 Machine Readable Visa charge. Applicants may receive an interview within 10 business days, subject to availability.
India is not among the participating locations announced on August 18, 2026. The pilot currently covers US missions in Canada, Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Honduras and Mexico. It provides only an earlier interview, not faster processing or guaranteed approval. The $750 fee is non-refundable and is forfeited if an appointment is cancelled or missed. The pilot runs until December 31, 2026, and more locations may be added.
Indian Opinion Analysis
An earlier interview can reduce one part of the waiting period, but it does not change the legal test for a visitor visa. Consular officers still assess whether the applicant qualifies for the requested category and intends to follow its conditions. The payment also creates a financial risk for travellers whose plans change, since a missed appointment means paying again. Indian applicants should watch for a formal addition of India to the pilot before assuming the option is available.
Source: livemint.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above. Methodology and corrections.
