I don't think it can ever be too hectic to save someone's time & money. Someone I knew got a pre-interview as well so I'd say it's common for international teams who get seriously considered for invites to get a pre-screening sort of...
But I do know folks from India who did not get a pre-interview request but did get called for interview and eventually got selected.
The pre-interview content in one case was just some clarifications on application.