US to launch $750 “premium” visa service to fast-track interview appointments

The U.S. Department of State is preparing to introduce a “premium” expedited service for foreign nationals applying for business or tourist visas to the United States, according to a notice set to be published in the Federal Register this week.

Under the pilot program, applicants will be able to pay an additional $750 fee — on top of the standard $185 visa application charge — to secure an interview appointment within 10 days of payment at select US embassies and consulates. The service is described as an “optional premium add-on service.”

The initiative is scheduled to run from July 1 through Dec. 31, based on internal documents obtained by The Associated Press and confirmed by a State Department official who spoke on condition of anonymity because the program has not yet been formally announced.

The measure appears to be aimed at addressing mounting delays in visa processing, which have drawn complaints from applicants worldwide. These delays have been exacerbated by stricter entry policies under the administration of Donald Trump, which has sought to make entry into the United States more difficult.

Recent policy changes have included tighter scrutiny of visa applicants, such as requirements to provide years of personal history, including social media activity, for vetting. In some cases — particularly in several African countries — applicants have also been required to post bonds of up to $15,000 as part of the visa process.

Wait times for visa interviews for citizens of countries not included in the Visa Waiver Program can stretch to several months or longer. However, officials подчеркнули that payment of the expedited service fee does not guarantee visa approval.

The specific embassies and consulates that will offer the expedited appointments are expected to be announced ahead of the program’s launch. While the pilot is set to conclude at the end of the year, officials indicated it could be extended depending on demand.

By Tamilla Hasanova