US launches 'premium' visa appointment service for faster interviews

The U.S. State Department is introducing a new 'premium' expedited appointment service for individuals applying for business and tourist visas. This optional service allows applicants to secure an interview slot within 10 days of payment.

Under the new system, applicants will pay an additional $750 fee on top of the standard $185 visa application fee. This extra payment guarantees an interview appointment within a 10-day window. The State Department has described this as an "optional premium extra service," emphasizing that it does not guarantee visa approval.

This initiative comes as a response to significantly extended visa wait times experienced worldwide. These delays have been exacerbated by policies implemented since the Trump administration that aimed to tighten entry requirements. For citizens of countries not part of the Visa Waiver Program, interview wait times in some regions can stretch for months, leading to frustration and delays in travel plans.

The pilot program is slated to begin on July 1 and will be implemented at select U.S. embassies and consulates. The specific locations will be announced before the program's launch. The State Department indicated that the program's duration could be extended based on demand, with a plan to run it through the end of the year.