By JKNewsMedia
PREMIUM EXPEDITED visa service for United States of America (ISA)’s B1 and B2 visa applicants has been introduced by the US State Department, allowing travellers to pay $750 for interview appointments scheduled within 10 business days.
JKNewsMedia.com reports that the June 9 notice in the federal register stated that the fast-tracked interview appointments will only take place at select embassies and consulates.
The pilot programme is scheduled to run from July 1 to December 31, 2026, with the possibility of extension.
The move could ease multiple restrictions imposed by the Donald Trump administration on foreigners as part of efforts to curb migration flow.
A number of African nationals, including Nigerians, already face the possibility of paying bonds of up to $15000 as a requirement for B1 and B2 visa applications.
African countries also account for the largest share of nations currently under partial travel suspensions.
The restrictions have led to longer wait times for visa interviews, making it difficult for some applicants to secure appointments for urgent or last-minute travel.
In Abuja, the average wait time for a B1 and B2 visa interview is now 11.5 months.
JKNewsMedia.com also reports that a B1 and B2 visa, covering business and tourism travel, currently costs $185, with the expedited processing fee paid separately.
However, payment for the optional premium add on service does not guarantee visa issuance.
The State Department did not specify which US diplomatic posts will participate in the new service.
It was also reported last month that nearly 50 US embassies and consulates processing visa applications across Africa would be reduced to 20.
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