Moroccan exporters who require a Schengen visa to enter EU countries have voiced concerns about not being able to take part in trade and networking events or participate in the upcoming Fruit Attraction exhibition that will take place in Madrid in October due to visa-related issues, reported the “SchengenVisaInfo.com” website on Monday.
The exporters have claimed that outsourcing of consular services is resulting in outside brokers scheduling and reselling all of the available visa appointments for a higher price on the black market such that the exporters are unable to submit a visa application.
Several complainants said that they disagree with having to apply for visas through brokers since everyone should have an equal opportunity to do so without being forced to use an intermediary.
They emphasized the complicated appointment procedures for a Schengen visa take months and urged the authorities to take action to address these concerns so they can attend important events.
Earlier this month, Moroccan Schengen visa applicants also complained about the appointments.
Since Morocco has not reached a visa-free travel agreement with the Schengen countries, all Moroccans continue to be subject to the visa requirement.