Appointment investigation into Schengen visa intermediary companies: Seven firms under scrutiny

An investigation has been launched into intermediary companies accused of blocking appointment systems with bot software to generate illegal profits regarding Schengen visa appointments. Trade Minister Ömer Bolat announced that a total of seven intermediary firms, six of which are being investigated ex officio and one following a complaint, are being examined by the Advertising Board.

In his response to a written parliamentary question submitted by Yeni Yol Party Istanbul MP Elif Esen regarding audits of visa intermediary services, Minister Bolat stated that proceedings against such companies are ongoing in accordance with Articles 61 and 62 of the Law on the Protection of Consumers.

Bolat stated, "The Advertising Board is conducting investigations into seven different companies regarding the services and promotions of firms providing visa application services, with the majority being initiated ex officio." He also reported that as of 2023, one company was issued a suspension of advertising penalty for deceptive advertising, and another company was issued both a suspension of advertising and an administrative fine.

Emphasizing that there is no specific legal regulation regarding pricing, refunds, and information for companies providing visa application intermediary services, Bolat said that consumer complaints reaching the Ministry are forwarded to dispute resolution bodies.

INTENSE COMPLAINTS FROM CONSUMERS

According to Consumer Information System data, 1,187 applications were filed with consumer arbitration committees regarding visa consultancy companies over the last five years. Additionally, 143 complaints were forwarded to the Prime Ministry and relevant institutions via CİMER, and 10 via e-Devlet.

Minister Bolat announced that applications regarding payments being made to personal accounts via IBAN information and the failure to issue invoices have also been reported to the Ministries of Treasury and Finance and Foreign Affairs.

The Ministry of Trade is closely monitoring the process in response to the difficulties experienced in Schengen visa applications and the grievances caused by non-transparent practices. Once the investigations conducted by the Advertising Board are completed, any new sanctions regarding the intermediary companies will be shared with the public.

News Source: 12punto