The mandatory appointment requirement remains in place: the Ombudsman has spoken out against it

Have you ever had to make an appointment to file for unemployment benefits or renew your driver’s license? I’m sure you have. And I’m sure you’ve run into that system that forces you to make an appointment for everything, even in an emergency. Well, the government acknowledged it was illegal two years ago—and promised to eliminate it—but here we are.

The Ombudsman isn’t staying silent: he’s once again denouncing that the mandatory appointment system at the SEPE and the DGT remains a barrier for citizens. And he’s right: if you don’t get an appointment, you won’t be able to renew your job seeker status or get your driver’s license. It’s that simple.

The agencies in question are the SEPE (the employment service) and the DGT (traffic). Neither has dropped this requirement. Although the government promised two years ago to do away with it, the reality is that everything remains the same. If you’re a foreigner and depend on these procedures for your documentation, you suffer even more: appointments fill up fast, and any delay can leave you in an irregular situation.

So what can you do? For now, you have to fight the system. Try to book an appointment first thing in the morning or during off-peak hours. If you can’t find a slot, stop by the physical office and explain your situation—sometimes an official will grant you one on an exceptional basis. You can also file a complaint with the Ombudsman or submit a written appeal.

The problem is no small matter: the mandatory appointment system has become an administrative barrier that affects those with the least leeway the most. And, although the government acknowledges it’s illegal, it hasn’t taken firm steps to remove it. Meanwhile, citizens—and especially foreigners—continue to bear the brunt of it.

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