The congress demands an end to the mandatory prior appointment.

Congress has taken a step—symbolic, but significant. With 186 votes in favor, 159 abstentions, and only two against, the Chamber approved a non-binding motion from the PP that calls on the government to eliminate mandatory appointments at all offices of the General State Administration. That is, at places like the SEPE, Social Security, or the DGT, where they still require an appointment for just about anything you need.

The proposal—supported by Vox, Junts, PNV, Podemos, and BNG—calls for ensuring that you can be served without an appointment. That said, it also wants to maintain the online option and voluntary appointments. The text notes that the Common Administrative Procedure Act does not require an appointment for everything. And the lawmakers cite the Constitution: obstacles that hinder your rights must be removed.

The problem—and you know this well if you’re a foreigner—is that the appointment system has become a nightmare for procedures like residency, citizenship, or renewals. MP Ángel Ibáñez denounced this: for 80% of procedures, there are no appointments available. And when there are, you wait 15 or 20 days. In fact, there’s a black market where they’re sold for up to 100 euros. Ione Belarra also pointed this out.

The PSOE abstained. They said the government is already working on it—a January 2024 promise by then-Minister Escrivá—but, so far, nothing has happened. The Socialists blame the PP’s staff cuts in 2012. But the reality is that you, as a foreigner, are still struggling with a gridlocked system. So, what can you do?

What can you do in the meantime? The proposal isn’t binding, so government agencies aren’t required to change. If you need to handle something urgently, try to schedule an appointment first thing in the morning—or during off-peak hours. You can also go to an administrative agency, even if it costs money. And above all: don’t pay for an appointment on the black market. It’s illegal, and you have no guarantees. Take action, but be smart about it.

If you’re having trouble with your appointment or paperwork, message us on Telegram: https://t.me/cita_extranjeria