A method and apparatus for call setup signaling in a VoIP network is disclosed. An application server receives call information from a network node, which causes the application server to be inserted in the call setup signaling path. The application server provides any special feature processing necessary for call setup. Upon the application server determining that it is no longer required in the signaling path for call setup, the application server removes itself from the call setup signaling path. The application server may remove itself from the signaling path prior to completion of call setup, thereby freeing up network resources and reducing post dial delay. In various embodiments, the application server removes itself from the call setup signaling path by transmitting information utilizing particular protocol messages.