Key Takeaways:
- Foreign nationals in the UAE have been warned about fraudulent Schengen visa agencies.
- A VFS Global spokesperson advised applicants to avoid using intermediaries when applying for a Schengen visa.
- The spokesperson also reminded applicants that appointments are free of charge.
Foreign nationals in the UAE who require a Schengen visa have been warned about fraudulent agencies.
A VFS Global spokesperson issued the warning, highlighting that several agencies are falsely claiming to be affiliated with the company. These scammers offer appointments and promise guaranteed visas in exchange for a fee. However, once the payment is made, applicants are left with no further contact or service, according to Schengen.News.
To avoid falling victim to such scams, the spokesperson advised applicants not to use intermediaries when applying for a Schengen visa.
Additionally, the spokesperson reminded everyone that appointments made through the VFS Global website are completely free. The only fee Schengen visa applicants are required to pay is the processing fee.
Appointments are released and reflected in real-time on our website and are available at no additional charge.UAE VFS Global Spokesperson
The spokesperson also advised anyone planning to travel to the EU to submit their Schengen visa application well in advance, as demand tends to be particularly high during the summer months.
Applicants are reminded that they can apply for a Schengen visa up to six months before their intended travel date to the Schengen Area.
Schengen Visa Appointments Are Currently Very Hard to Find in UAE
Due to the high demand for Schengen visas during the summer, foreign nationals in the UAE are finding it difficult to secure appointment slots.
Unlike UAE nationals, who can enter the Schengen Area visa-free, nationals from countries without visa liberalization agreements with the EU must obtain a visa.
Among the foreign residents in the UAE, Pakistanis, Indians, and Bangladeshis are the most common nationalities requiring Schengen visas to travel to the EU.
A recent survey of 419 respondents revealed that 65% have been unable to secure an appointment for a Schengen visa this summer.
Foreigners in UAE Applied for More Than 233,900 Schengen Visas Last Year
According to the Schengen Statistics Portal, foreign nationals in the UAE submitted a total of 233,932 Schengen visa applications in 2023.
Out of these, 175,605 applications were approved, while 52,485 were denied.
Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands were the top three Schengen member states that received the highest number of visa applications from foreign nationals residing in the UAE last year.
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