• Multi-Country Program Expansion: The United States State Department expanded its expedited visa appointment pilot across Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Honduras following its initial launch in Mexico.
• Ten-Day Interview Access: Eligible B-1 and B-2 business and tourist applicants can pay an optional 750-dollar fee to secure an interview within ten business days, subject to slot availability.
• Integrated Booking System: Applicants must schedule a standard visa appointment first and can opt into the paid expedite feature directly through the official scheduling portal.
• Rigorous Security Standards: The paid service accelerates interview scheduling only, while all applicants complete standard background checks, security reviews, and consular evaluations

International travel and cross-border commerce are set to become significantly more accessible as the United States Department of State expands its innovative Nonimmigrant Visa Expedited Appointment Pilot Program. Following an initial rollout in Mexico, the paid fast-track initiative has officially launched across Canada, Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Honduras, offering travelers with urgent schedules an efficient new way to secure timely consular appointments.

Under this voluntary initiative, eligible applicants seeking B-1 and B-2 visitor visas for tourism or temporary business travel can pay an optional 750-dollar fee in addition to the standard 185-dollar application charge. In return, qualified candidates can schedule an in-person visa interview within ten business days, provided appointment slots remain open at participating embassies and consulates. This provides welcome flexibility for business professionals, conference attendees, and leisure travelers who require swift interview access.

The application workflow remains intuitive and integrated within the existing consular booking system. Applicants first submit their standard documentation, pay the initial fee, and book a regular calendar date. If expedited slots become available at their designated consular post, the system presents the paid expedite option, giving applicants ten minutes to confirm their expedited slot.

While the program provides earlier interview access, standard consular vetting, security screening, and background reviews continue to apply to ensure maritime and aviation safety. The pilot is scheduled to run through December 31, 2026, with the potential for additional global consular posts to join the network in upcoming months. By modernizing appointment access, the United States is fostering stronger international partnerships and supporting vibrant global travel.