As longer waiting times for a visa interview increasingly become the norm all over the world, speculation is that the US government is looking at a new premium service that could fundamentally change the way people apply for short-term tourist and business visas. Recent internal report has revealed the introduction of a fast-track service, which will allow eligible applicants to pay $1,000 to get priority appointments for the US B1/B2 visa.

The plan would not replace the regular application process but provide an optional fast track lane to anyone willing to pay a much higher cost. Together with the $185 US visa fee already in place, this would mean the cost of fast-tracked access could reach $1,185. The initiative, according to the notice, could kick off as soon as December 2025.

The decision is a response to the increasing pressure from travelers and consulates, a person familiar with the organisation said. Wait times are more than 300 days in certain parts of the country, so being able to jump the queue and especially before something like the 2026 FIFA World Cup rolls around, is being seen as a practical yet disputed action.

In locations with high demand, including cities like Dubai, travelers continue to face months-long waits to book a US Visa appointment from Dubai. The proposed priority service would address this backlog by offering access to earlier appointments for a fee, targeting applicants who need short-notice travel options or have urgent business or family matters.

However, the proposal’s legal angle is under scrutiny. Legal advisors within the U.S. State Department have warned that the $1,000 charge could exceed the actual cost of providing the service, risking rejection from the White House’s budget office or even a federal court. Past Supreme Court decisions have prohibited federal agencies from profiting off essential public services.

The spokesperson added, "While the intention is to ease global demand pressure, there’s a real concern that this may not withstand legal review. Still, the conversation is gaining traction due to the scale of delays."

Beyond legal risks, there’s concern that the high price tag could impact the country's appeal as a travel destination. With international tourist spending already forecasted to drop 7% this year due to a mix of stronger immigration controls and a stronger U.S. dollar, experts warn that adding premium costs could push tourists towards more affordable destinations.

This proposal has the attention of travel industry experts. “People don’t object to paying up front when they have the guarantee and a fast treatment,” one travel consultant based in the Middle East said. “But it has to be done thoughtfully. It’s not just about providing a service, but to keep the United States’ brand as a welcoming place to visit.”

Currently it is just a proposal, but the plan is a sign of how the groundwork is being laid for visa services that are driven more and more by commercial considerations. If successful, applicants would still need to complete the normal US visit visa regime, but their interview can be prioritised for a fee.

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