Tangier Authorities Suspected Fraud in Spanish Visa Applications

Agadir – Judicial authorities in Tangier have opened an investigation into suspected fraudulent Spanish visa applications after receiving an alert from the Spanish Consulate General in the city.

The move follows concerns about forged documents and inaccurate information submitted as part of several visa requests.

Preliminary findings show that the consulate detected irregularities during its examination of several Schengen visa applications. 

During the review, officials found contradictions and inconsistencies in essential supporting documents such as employment contracts, salary slips, and bank statements. 

These issues cast serious doubt on the credibility of the submitted paperwork and led the prosecutor’s office to initiate further action.

Under the supervision of the prosecutor, the judicial police in Tangier launched a preliminary investigation targeting individuals whose names appeared in the suspicious applications. 

Authorities are examining whether fictitious companies or entities were created to produce fake documents intended to meet visa requirements.

Investigators are waiting for the results of technical examinations and field inquiries to better understand the type and extent of the suspected violations.

The case has raised concerns about the integrity of the visa application process. Officials stressed that fraudulent submissions risk undermining trust in immigration procedures and could have broader implications for cooperation between Morocco and Spain.

As part of the investigation, judicial police are collecting evidence and hearing testimonies from various parties, including applicants. The goal is to establish responsibilities and determine whether criminal charges are warranted.

Moroccan authorities have previously investigated similar allegations of Visa forgery. In late 2023, Moroccan officials opened an inquiry into four employees of the Spanish Consulate General in Nador accused of using their positions to help applicants obtain Schengen visas in exchange for monetary compensation. 

That investigation suggested some employees may have accepted high fees, reportedly up to €15,000 per case, and used falsified supporting documents, including bank records and proof of accommodation, to secure visas.