Spain denies using algorithms to filter Schengen visa applicants following Netherlands revelation

Spanish authorities have assured that Spain “does not use any algorithms to profile nationals of other countries applying for Schengen visas,” according to the Schengen Visa website.

The Netherlands was charged with using a covert “and perhaps illegal” algorithm to categorize foreigners asking for Schengen visas according to their ethnicity back in April.

As a result, the government of Spain stated that all applications are processed equitably, and that the nation does not tolerate such methods.

“All applicants go through the same procedures when applying for a Schengen or national visa, regardless of their ethnicity, gender, age, and economic background,” according to a representative of the Diplomatic Information Office of Spain.

“Spain does not use any algorithm or type of filter in relation to visa applications, whether they are for Schengen visas or national visas,” said the spokesperson.

Certain visa applicants must wait longer for a response due to the volume of applications submitted by various embassies and consulates, according to the same source.

Sweden also has informed everyone that it does not classify applicants using any illegal algorithms.

Currently, all candidates must fill out the Spanish visa application form and submit it along with their passports, two passport-size photos, and evidence that they have obtained travel insurance.

Additionally, each participant must provide a roundtrip flight schedule, documentation of sufficient funds, and evidence that they have a place to stay in Spain.

According to the most recent statistics published on the Visa Schengen website, 119,000 Moroccan citizens’ requests for Schengen visas were turned down in 2022, with a rejection rate of over 15%.

Algeria had the highest percentage of visa requests that were turned down in 2022, with more than 179,000 requests turned down and a rejection rate of 45.8%.