The U.S. State Department is preparing to roll out a new expedited visa interview service that would allow certain foreign travelers to secure interview appointments much faster by paying an additional fee, according to internal documents reviewed by The Associated Press.
The proposed program, described as a “premium” visa processing option, is expected to launch next month and will initially be available at select U.S. embassies and consulates. The proposed program would give visa applicants the option to pay $750 for faster interview scheduling, with appointments expected to be available within 10 days of enrollment.
The premium service fee would be added to the existing $185 nonimmigrant visa application charge, bringing the total cost to $935 for those choosing the expedited option. The State Department is expected to formally announce the initiative in a Federal Register notice later this week.
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According to a State Department official familiar with the matter, the program will begin as a pilot initiative on July 1 and run through Dec. 31. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the plan publicly. If demand is strong, the department could extend the program beyond the initial six-month period.
Officials are expected to release additional details before the launch date, including a list of participating embassies and consulates, eligibility requirements, and operational guidelines for applicants interested in using the service.
The move comes as the Trump administration continues to tighten immigration and visa screening procedures for foreign nationals seeking entry into the United States. Since returning to office, the administration has emphasized stronger vetting measures and increased scrutiny of visa applicants.
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Over the past year, the administration has introduced several policies aimed at strengthening immigration enforcement and reducing visa overstays. Among them are requirements for certain travelers from countries with high overstay rates to post visa bonds that can reach as much as $15,000. The administration has also expanded information disclosure requirements for visa applicants, including requests for years of personal history and social media activity.
The premium service is intended to reduce those delays for applicants willing to pay for faster access. However, officials have emphasized that purchasing an expedited appointment will not increase an applicant’s chances of receiving a visa. The fee only provides quicker access to an interview appointment and does not affect the adjudication process.
Visa officers will continue to evaluate applications under existing laws and procedures, meaning applicants must still satisfy all eligibility requirements to receive approval.