Spain Rejects Visa Applications for 40 Indian Students Seeking Vocational Training

Key Points

1. Spain denied visas for 40 Indian students aiming to attend vocational schools in Spain.
2. The rejections were based on concerns about potential irregular migration.
3. The decision disrupted the students' plans, some of whom were set to begin training in September.

A group of 40 Indian students were denied visas by the Spanish Embassy in India, citing doubts about the true purpose of their stay. These students were intending to attend vocational training programs in hospitality and catering across various Spanish regions.

Rejection Letters Cited Uncertainty About Purpose of Stay

In the rejection letters, authorities expressed concerns, stating there were sufficient reasons to question the legitimacy of the visa requests, with doubts over whether the stated purpose of the stay could be proven beyond doubt.

Visa Appeals Process Causes Delays and Discouragement

Maria Angeles Lopez de Bayas from Erasmus in School and Vocational Spain explained to *El Pais* that the lengthy one-month appeal process discourages students, especially given the difficulty and cost of traveling to consulates located in major cities like New Delhi and Mumbai.

De Bayas highlighted the multiple requirements for obtaining a student visa for Spain, including study accreditation, proof of €10,000 in financial support, no criminal record, and a medical certificate showing no contagious diseases.

Extremadura's Regional Government Addresses the Issue

The Regional Government of Extremadura, where many of the students were set to study, stated they are not directly involved in visa decisions but have pledged to accommodate late arrivals if the issue is resolved. If the students cannot take their places, the vacant spots may be reallocated.

Students Express Frustration

Several students have voiced their frustration, arguing that the visa rejection harms their future. One student, Karma Tseten Choda, whose classes were scheduled to begin in mid-September, criticized the decision, calling it arbitrary and inefficient, especially as she had complied with all requirements. Another student, Suman Ugdata, shared that after reapplying, her documentation was again rejected due to procedural issues.