The United States Department of State has announced a pilot programme that will allow certain B1/B2 visitor visa applicants to pay an additional $750 for faster interview appointments at participating US embassies and consulates.
According to the new policy, applicants who choose the optional premium service may be offered an interview within 10 business days, depending on availability at participating diplomatic missions. The programme is expected to run from 1 July to 31 December 2026, with the possibility of being extended following an evaluation.
The initiative is aimed at reducing long waiting times that have affected visitor visa applicants in several countries, including Nigeria, where appointment backlogs remain significant.
The premium appointment fee will be charged separately from the standard $185 B1/B2 visa application fee. However, the State Department stressed that paying for expedited scheduling does not increase an applicant’s chances of obtaining a visa. All applicants must still meet US immigration requirements and successfully complete the standard visa assessment process.
The announcement comes as many travellers continue to face lengthy waiting periods for interview appointments, making it difficult to secure visas for business, tourism, medical treatment or family visits.
US officials have not yet released a list of the embassies and consulates that will participate in the pilot programme.
The new service follows broader changes to US immigration and visa processing policies in recent years, which have included stricter screening procedures and longer processing times in several regions, particularly across Africa.
Applicants are advised to monitor official US embassy announcements for updates on eligibility and availability of the expedited interview service.