Spain Apologizes for Schengen Visa Delays as Moroccan Applications Surge 10% Annually

"We apologize to Moroccan citizens for the long waiting times," he said at a press conference, acknowledging that the consular system was "overwhelmed" due to a "significant increase in visa applications from Morocco".

"We are overwhelmed," he said, before adding "this year we will receive 250,000 visa applications, that is an annual increase of 10% in recent years".

In apologizing to Moroccan citizens, the Spanish minister assured that the consular services in Morocco will make every effort to address these delays.

To this end, the Head of Spanish diplomacy will meet with the Spanish consuls in Morocco to discuss ways to accelerate the processing of applications. Also, he stressed, a new appointment booking system will be put in place to reduce waiting times. This system is not necessarily to the benefit of Moroccans as they will have to pay when making an appointment.