Pay €25,000 for visa: Indian firm under probe after Spain's Algerian migration crisis
Indian firm BLS International is facing allegations of visa fraud from a Spanish National Court investigation. The probe, led by Judge María Tardón, centers on BLS's role in a network accused of charging applicants up to €25,000 for Schengen visas and residency or work permits. BLS, contracted by Spain's Foreign Ministry for visa appointments and document processing, denies any wrongdoing.
The investigation began after the Spanish Embassy in Algeria reported a network allegedly profiting from fraudulent visa issuance, charging applicants for processing irrespective of their eligibility. The case has led to arrests of consulate officials, and prosecutors allege a network involving Spanish officials and Algerian staff collaborated with outside companies to prioritize bribed applicants.
BLS's role is strictly administrative, with decisions on visa issuance rest with diplomatic and consular authorities. The investigation is probing money laundering, crimes against foreign citizens, document falsification, influence peddling, and criminal organization.
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