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The United States (US) State Department has introduced a new “premium” expedited visa service that will allow foreign applicants to fast-track their business or tourist visa appointments for a fee of $750, in addition to the initial $185 fee.
The pilot programme, set to be published in the Federal Register this week, will allow applicants to secure an interview appointment within 10 days of payment at selected US embassies and consulates.
According to internal documents obtained by The Associated Press and a State Department official who spoke on condition of anonymity because the programme has not yet been officially announced, the service will run from July 1 to December 31.
Applicants will still be required to pay the standard $185 visa application fee, meaning the total cost for the fast-track option could rise to $935.
The move is a potential effort to lessen conditions resulting from the Trump administration’s push to make entry to the US more difficult.
The administration has clamped down on most forms of migration for foreigners, demanding that bonds of up to $15,000 be paid for visa processing in some countries, specifically in Africa.
It also requires vetting years of personal history, including social media accounts. The new requirements have resulted in delays in visa processing worldwide, prompting complaints.
The wait times for visa interviews for citizens of countries not part of the Visa Waiver Program can be several months or longer, but paying the fee for the “optional premium add-on service” does not guarantee a visa will be issued.
The embassies and consulates where the expedited service will be available are expected to be announced before the programme takes effect on July 1.
The pilot programme will run until the end of the year, with the possibility of extension depending on demand.
