Contrary to rumors that their consular offices have stopped processing visas, Germany, Italy, and Spain have refuted allegations that they have stopped issuing Schengen visas to Turkish nationals.

There had been rumors that these nations were no longer issuing visas, but representatives from Germany, Italy, and Spain confirmed that nothing had changed and blamed the hold-up on application processing and appointment slots.

The German Embassy in Ankara allayed Turkish nationals’ fears by reassuring them that visa applications are being approved normally, although it did observe a spike in demand that is causing longer wait times for appointments. The embassy clarified that certain applicants might have to wait until later times till there are openings for fresh appointments.

In a similar vein, the Spanish Consulate in Istanbul admitted that although visa applications are still being received, all appointments for May are now fully booked. In order to handle the large number of waiting applications, additional slots are expected in June.

Applications for Schengen visas are being handled, according to the Italian Embassy, although there are now just a few appointments available until June when more slots become available.

Turkey has been working with the EU for several years to obtain a visa-free travel agreement, but there are still requirements that need to be completed. In the meanwhile, Turkish authorities stress the value of easing travel for this group and push for exemptions for young academics and entrepreneurs in order to promote creativity and technology within the EU.