فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
The Schengen visa is one of the most sought-after visas by Moroccan citizens, as it allows them to travel freely between the European Union countries that participate in the Schengen Agreement. Both France and Spain are major destinations chosen by Moroccans for traveling to Europe. However, a common question many have is: which country is better for obtaining a Schengen visa: France or Spain? In this article, we will provide a comprehensive comparison between the two countries in terms of procedures, rejection rates, and the facilitation offered to applicants.
Rejection Rates
Official statistics published by various global agencies reveal a notable difference in rejection rates between the two countries. In 2022, the rejection rate for Moroccan applicants applying for a French visa was around 32% of the total applications submitted. Specifically, 51,498 applications were rejected out of 161,045 submitted. In contrast, the Spanish consulate was more lenient, rejecting 50,033 applications out of 201,584, which corresponds to a rejection rate of about 25%.
Required Documents and Procedures
Although both France and Spain require the same set of basic documents for a Schengen visa, there are slight differences in the procedures that might influence the applicant’s choice of where to submit their application.
Required documents for a Schengen visa include a passport valid for at least 3 months after the planned return date, recent passport-sized photos, health insurance covering all medical expenses in the Schengen area, proof of financial ability to cover travel and accommodation costs, and documents proving the purpose of the visit, such as flight and hotel bookings or an invitation from a recognized entity.
However, there are some differences between the French and Spanish consulates in their procedures. The French consulate requests more detailed information about the trip, including documentation for flight tickets, hotel reservations, and sometimes more precise financial details. On the other hand, the Spanish consulate may be more flexible at times, with applicants able to secure appointment slots more quickly than with the French consulate.
Choosing the Best Option for Your Schengen Visa Application
When deciding on the best country to apply for a Schengen visa, several factors must be considered. If you are planning to visit France or Spain, you should apply through the consulate of the country where you will spend the most time. If you’re looking to improve your chances of visa approval, applying through the Spanish consulate may be the better choice. With a lower rejection rate compared to France, it is an attractive option for many applicants. Furthermore, if you need to obtain the visa quickly, Spain’s more flexible appointment slots may make the process easier and faster, whereas France might have less availability, leading to delays in processing.
It is important to submit your application early enough to avoid potential delays. It is recommended to apply at least 3 months before your planned travel date. Ensure that you submit all required documents accurately and up-to-date, as any missing documents or discrepancies could lead to the rejection of your application. If you are unsure about the procedures or required documents, you can consult with specialized visa advisors. These professionals can help you avoid mistakes and increase your chances of approval.
Conclusion
Ultimately, both applying for a Schengen visa through the French and Spanish consulates is a viable option for Moroccans. However, Spain stands out in terms of visa approval rates, making it the preferred choice for many applicants. Nevertheless, applicants should consider the details of their trip, its purpose, and the timing available to them when making their decision.
Source: Fes News Media
