Thousands of Pakistanis seeking consular services have reported difficulties securing visa appointments, with many alleging that unauthorized agents are charging massive fees to obtain booking slots. The issue has drawn widespread concern, particularly among families applying for visas through European embassies in Islamabad.
According to multiple reports, applicants claim some intermediaries demand between Rs600,000 and Rs1.5 million for a single appointment. Many affected individuals say the practice has made the visa process more expensive and stressful.
Applicants Allege Agents Control Appointment Slots
Several applicants believe unauthorized agents have taken control of online appointment systems by reserving available slots in bulk. They claim this creates an artificial shortage, forcing genuine applicants to purchase appointments at inflated prices.
The Spanish Embassy in Islamabad has received particular attention in these allegations. However, applicants also claim that similar practices affect appointment systems for other European diplomatic missions.
Journalist Awais Hameed said a close acquaintance recently paid Rs600,000 to an intermediary to secure a routine consular appointment. His account has added to growing public concerns over the alleged misuse of embassy booking systems.
Concerns Extend Beyond One Embassy
Public discussion suggests the issue is not limited to a single diplomatic mission. Applicants and members of the Pakistani community have also raised concerns about appointment bookings linked to the embassies of Germany and the Netherlands in Islamabad.
Many families say they have struggled to secure appointments despite repeated attempts through official online portals. As a result, some applicants claim they have faced long delays while trying to complete visa and documentation procedures.
Pakistani Community Calls for Action
Spain is home to more than 150,000 Pakistanis, many of whom regularly support their families through remittances. The Pakistani diaspora in Spain sends more than $831 million to Pakistan each year, making the community an important contributor to the country’s economy.
However, many families say appointment delays have affected family reunification, visa processing, and other essential consular services.
The reported situation has prompted calls for greater transparency in embassy appointment systems. Applicants are urging the relevant authorities to investigate the allegations, improve online booking procedures, and ensure that genuine applicants can access consular services without relying on unauthorized intermediaries.
