In response to accusations that the Netherlands was categorizing applications for Schengen visas, the Swedish authorities stated that their nation does not utilize any secret algorithms to profile applicants. According to a Lighthouse Reports and NRC investigation, the Netherlands has been employing this algorithm since 2015. The country was accused of using it to create profiles of people asking for Schengen visas based on their ethnicity. Due to this, Sweden issued a formal statement on the subject assuring everyone that it does not engage in discrimination or encourage such actions and handles all applicants equally. The Swedish Migration Agency spokeswoman told SchengenVisaInfo.com that the nation has never utilized and does not now employ algorithms to categorize Schengen visa applicants based on their race, age, gender, and socioeconomic status. Moreover, the spokesperson responded that Schengen visa applications are handled in accordance with the Schengen visa application code when questioned if all applicants, regardless of their country of origin, go through the same processes. “Applications for Schengen visas are handled in accordance with the Schengen visa application code,” the Swedish Migration Agency spokesperson said while noting that the period may be extended up to 45 days for certain applicants. Additionally, when asked why certain applicants have to wait for a longer period before receiving an answer on their visa application, the spokesperson said that in most cases, this happens because the member countries need time to consult with the other countries’ authorities. “The time it takes for an applicant to receive an answer could vary within the time limit of 15 to 45 days. This may be due to the need for member states to consult the authorities of other Member States,” the spokesperson emphasised. Similar to Sweden, another member state, Spain, refuted claims that it processed visa applications using top-secret algorithms. In response, VFS Global stated that it does not discriminate against applicants for Schengen visas in any way and does not reserve appointment times for only a select group of applicants. To enter Sweden or any other country in the Schengen Area, a visa is required for all citizens of third countries with which an agreement on visa-free travel has not been achieved. Applicants must submit a number of papers when requesting a Sweden Schengen visa. Everyone must complete the Swedish visa application form, submit two passport photos, their valid passport, proof of having purchased travel health insurance, a roundtrip flight itinerary, proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient financial means, among others.