US targets business travellers with new $750 'premium' visa interview service

The United States Department of State is set to introduce a new "premium" visa interview service that will allow certain foreign nationals to secure visa interview appointments within 10 days for an additional fee of $750.

According to internal documents obtained by the Associated Press (AP), the pilot programme is expected to begin on July 1, 2026, and run until December 31, 2026, although it could be extended depending on demand.

Under the initiative, applicants seeking US travel or business visas will have the option of paying the expedited service fee in addition to the standard $185 visa application fee.

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Those who opt for the premium service will be able to schedule visa interviews at participating US embassies and consulates within 10 days of making payment.

A State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AP that details of the programme will be published in a Federal Register notice this week.

The official added that the list of embassies and consulates participating in the pilot scheme will be announced before its launch.

The expedited service is intended to reduce lengthy waiting periods for visa interview appointments, which in some countries can take several months due to high demand and limited appointment availability.

However, the State Department emphasised that paying the additional fee will only guarantee faster access to an interview appointment and does not increase an applicant's chances of obtaining a visa.

The new initiative comes amid broader immigration measures introduced by the administration of President Donald Trump.

In recent years, the US government has implemented stricter visa requirements for some foreign nationals, including the introduction of visa bonds of up to $15,000 for applicants from countries with high visa overstay rates.

Authorities have also expanded background checks, requiring visa applicants to disclose personal information, including social media account histories.

Further information on eligibility requirements and operational procedures for the premium visa interview programme is expected to be released before the initiative takes effect next month.

The programme is expected to benefit business travellers and tourists seeking quicker access to visa interview appointments, particularly in countries where demand for US visas remains high.

MA

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