Moroccans Struggling to Secure Spanish Schengen Visa Appointments Due to Illegal Networks

Nationals of Morocco are continuing to complain and express frustration about the lack of Schengen visa appointments.

Differently from the past, when Moroccans mainly complained about French visas, this time, they are complaining about Spanish visas, saying that illegal networks are exploiting the system, Schengen.News reports. 

Following multiple complaints made by applicants who have been unable to secure a Spanish visa appointment, the Moroccan Association for Human Rights spoke on the matter, calling for immediate action. 

The association said that illegal networks are using advanced techniques to book all the appointments as soon as they get released and then selling them for a large amount of money, making it almost impossible for Moroccans to secure an appointment themselves via legal ways. 

As Morocco World News explains, the association said that the appointments are being sold by the illegal networks for as much as €483. 

This is a very high amount compared to the €90 Schengen visa fee applicants are required to pay when not making appointments through intermediaries. 

The association also said that Moroccans are also encountering inhumane treatment at the visa application centres managed by BLS International but did not provide any detailed information. 

Concerned with the situation, the association made a call upon the authorities to intervene as soon as possible and put an end to these practices causing inconveniences and violating the freedom of movement for Moroccans.

Moroccan Authorities Said Earlier in November 2024 They Are Taking Action Against Illegal Networks 
Earlier in November 2024, the Moroccan authorities said that the country is taking action against illegal networks that are exploiting the Schengen visa appointment system and selling appointments for large amounts of money. 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Morocco, Nasser Bourita, said back then that the ministry was working on a plan to end these practices. 

Such a decision from a Ministry came after a large number of Moroccans had been complaining that they were unable to secure Schengen visa appointments without the help of intermediaries, causing significant financial losses 

Minister Bourita said that the Moroccan authorities are working together with the diplomatic mission of the EU in the country to combat this practice that is causing inconveniences for Moroccans wanting to reach the Schengen Area. 

However, the Minister did not share any specific measures that are to be taken by the authorities.

Source: https://schengen.news/moroccans-struggling-to-secure-spanish-schengen-visa-appointments-due-to-illegal-networks/