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IMPACT – HIGH
What is the change? Spain has announced that it has signed a contract with BLS International to provide visa-application services worldwide on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. BLS International replaces the previous provider, VFS Global, whose contract ended Dec. 15.
What does the change mean? Applicants applying for Spanish visas should expect to redirect their applications to BLS International. Since Dec. 15, applicants in many countries were told to apply directly with a Spanish embassy or consulate.
Background: The Spanish ministry announced in October that VFS would stop accepting visa applications on its behalf. The change was delayed until earlier this month when applicants in India were directed to file visa applications with the Spanish Embassy in New Delhi or the consulate in Mumbai.
The Spanish Embassy in India has now posted information on its website for submitting visa applications with BLS International or contacting BLS via phone or email.
The Spanish Embassy in the United Arab Emirates has similarly posted BLS contact information and the BLS visa application website, which appears to be operational.
BAL Analysis: Companies and individuals applying for Spanish visas should anticipate delays and plan accordingly in light of the transition in visa service providers as well as the year-end holiday slowdown.
This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.
Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.
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