US Expands Fast-Track Visa Pilot to Five More Countries
The US Department of State has expanded its paid fast-track visa appointment pilot to five more countries. Eligible tourist and business visa applicants in Canada, Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Honduras can now secure an interview within 10 business days for a fee of $750.
The programme, which started in Mexico in July, allows applicants to schedule their visa interview earlier than usual. However, it does not speed up subsequent visa processing or increase the applicant's chances of getting a visa.
Paying the additional fee guarantees neither visa approval nor faster processing after the interview. The State Department makes clear that 'payment of the expedited appointment fee does not guarantee visa issuance or expedited processing, it only provides an earlier appointment.'