WASHINGTON — The United States Department of State will introduce a new premium service that will allow foreign nationals applying for business and tourist vis...
WASHINGTON — The United States Department of State will introduce a new premium service that will allow foreign nationals applying for business and tourist visas to secure interview appointments within 10 days after paying an additional US$750 fee.
The new charge will be added to the existing US$185 visa application fee, bringing the total cost for applicants using the premium option to US$935. The service will be available only at selected US embassies and consulates.
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According to information obtained by The Associated Press, the programme will operate as a pilot project from July 1 to December 31, 2026. Authorities may extend the initiative depending on demand and the outcome of the trial period.
The premium option will apply to applicants seeking B1 and B2 visas, which are issued to people travelling to the United States for business or tourism purposes. The fee will allow applicants to obtain an interview appointment within 10 days of payment.
US officials have clarified that paying the additional fee does not guarantee visa approval. Applicants will still be required to meet all eligibility requirements and undergo the normal screening and vetting procedures.
The State Department is expected to announce the list of embassies and consulates participating in the programme before it officially begins in July. Wait times for visa interviews in some countries can stretch for several months, and in certain locations applicants have experienced delays lasting more than a year.
The introduction of the paid service comes as the administration of President Donald Trump continues implementing stricter immigration measures. The administration has increased screening requirements for many foreign visitors and has introduced additional checks, including reviews of applicants’ social media histories.
Reports also indicate that some countries, particularly in Africa, have faced additional requirements, including the possibility of visa bonds reaching up to US$15,000 in certain cases. These measures have contributed to longer processing times and growing complaints from travellers.
Immigration experts say the new premium option may help travellers with urgent business commitments who are unable to wait for regular appointments. However, they note that the extra payment only guarantees faster scheduling and does not influence the final decision on whether a visa will be granted.
The State Department said the programme is designed to provide a quicker appointment option while maintaining existing security and eligibility standards. Officials are also preparing for increased international travel demand linked to major global events scheduled in the United States over the coming years.
If successful, the six-month pilot programme could become a longer-term option for international travellers seeking faster access to visa interview appointments.
