US visa applicants can now fast-track interviews for $750

…. designated US Consulates yet to be named 

The United States (US) State Department has introduced a premium expedited service for travellers seeking B1/B2 visas.

Under the new scheme, applicants can pay a $750 fee to secure an interview appointment within 10 business days.

However, the State Department has emphasised that paying for this optional premium service does not guarantee a visa will be issued.

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According to a notice published in the Federal Register on June 9, these fast-tracked interviews will only be available at select embassies and consulates.

The pilot programme is scheduled to run from July 1 to December 31, 2026, with the possibility of an extension.

The initiative could ease several restrictions previously imposed on foreign nationals by the Donald Trump administration as part of efforts to curb migration.

Currently, certain African nationals, including Nigerians, face the possibility of paying bonds of up to $15,000 to apply for a B1/B2 visa. Furthermore, African nations comprise the largest share of countries subject to partial US travel suspensions.

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These regulatory hurdles have significantly increased visa interview wait times, complicating travel plans for those requiring urgent or last-minute entry to the United States.

For instance, the average wait time for a B1/B2 interview can be up to 11 months.

A standard B1/B2 (business and tourism) visa currently costs $185, and the new expedited processing fee must be paid separately.

The department has not yet specified which US diplomatic posts will participate in the pilot project.

However, it follows reports from last month indicating that the number of US embassies and consulates processing visa applications across Africa is set to be reduced from nearly 50 down to 20.