The Trump administration is considering introducing a special system to expedite U.S. visa interviews. Under this plan, applicants who pay $1,000 would be eligible for faster visa interview appointments. This proposal is currently under review and could be implemented soon.

An internal memo from the U.S. Department of State outlines the idea, which has also been confirmed by an American official. According to the plan, non-immigrant visa applicants, especially tourists, would receive expedited interviews by paying a premium processing fee of $1,000. At present, these applicants pay $185 as a standard visa processing fee. The new fee would be charged in addition to this amount. A reputed English media outlet acquired the internal memo, and legal experts in the department have expressed concerns, calling it a risky move. It’s speculated that this plan might be challenged or halted by the White House budget office or the courts. Pilot implementation may begin by December.

This proposal was not part of Trump's "Gold Card" announcement earlier. When asked to comment on the premium processing fee, a U.S. State Department spokesperson declined, stating, “Non-immigrant visa appointments are dynamic, and we are continuously working to improve our operational capacity globally.” Since returning to office, Trump has been actively pushing for major immigration reforms, including changes to student visa and vetting protocols. Recently, he signed an order banning entry from 12 countries. Now, with the introduction of premium services in the visa process, the U.S. issued 10.4 million non-immigrant visas during the 2023 fiscal year.