Spanish visa applicants in India must apply directly with Spanish missions

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? As of Dec. 17, VFS Global in India stopped accepting applications for Spanish visas.

What does the change mean? Those applying for Spanish visas in India must apply directly with the Spanish Embassy in New Delhi or the consulate in Mumbai.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate.
• Visas/permits affected: All Spanish visas.
• Who is affected: All applicants applying for Spanish visas in India.
• Impact on processing times: Affected applicants should plan for possible delays.
• Business impact: Employers and individuals may need to postpone travel or rearrange business schedules.

Background: VFS Global announced the change in October, but the implementation was postponed and VFS was allowed to continue accepting visa applications until Dec. 17. All applicants in India must now apply either at the Spanish Embassy in New Delhi or the Spanish Consulate in Mumbai, depending on the applicable jurisdiction as indicated on the applicant’s original appointment letter.

BAL Analysis: The diversion of all Spanish visa applications to the embassy and consulate may cause a backlog due to the holiday season. Applicants should anticipate delays.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in India. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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