US offers fast-track visa interviews within 10 days for applicants who pay $750

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A citizenship candidate holds a flag during the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) naturalization ceremony at Rockefeller Plaza in New York City, U.S., September 17, 2019. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton

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The United States Department of State has introduced a new premium service for travellers applying for B1/B2 visas, allowing applicants to pay an additional $750 to secure interview appointments within 10 business days.

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According to a June 9 notice published in the Federal Register, the expedited interview option will be available only at selected US embassies and consulates.

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

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The initiative comes amid a series of immigration restrictions introduced by the administration of President Donald Trump to curb migration. Some African nationals, including Nigerians, already face the prospect of paying bonds of up to $15,000 when applying for B1/B2 visas.

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African countries also account for the largest number of nations currently subject to partial US travel suspensions.

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The restrictions have contributed to lengthy waiting periods for visa interviews, complicating travel plans for those seeking urgent or last-minute appointments.

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In Abuja, applicants currently face an average wait time of 11.5 months for B1/B2 visa interviews.

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While the standard fee for a business and tourism visa remains $185, applicants opting for the new service will pay the $750 charge separately.

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The State Department described the programme as an “optional premium add-on service”, noting that payment of the additional fee does not guarantee visa approval.

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It also did not disclose which diplomatic missions would participate in the scheme.

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Last month, reports indicated that the number of US embassies and consulates processing visa applications across Africa could be cut from nearly 50 to 20

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