Spanish Embassy in Rabat launches online campaign warning against illegal crossings to Ceuta and Melilla

The Spanish Embassy in Rabat has rolled out an online information drive aimed at deterring irregular attempts to reach the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla. Aligned with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the posts state that entering Spain illegally through these enclaves does not provide the right to remain in Spain, travel on the mainland, or move freely within the European Union. They cite a recent Supreme Court decision that outlines the legal process for maritime entrants, noting that the ruling does not amend the Foreigners Law, criminalise border refusals, or block return trips.

The embassy also described the unique dual-filter border regime, where travelers first face Moroccan controls and then a Schengen exit check overseen by one outlet Police, requiring identification before boarding. The messages were shared across the embassy’s and Spain’s consular accounts in Morocco and were published in both Spanish and French. They appear amid renewed social-media calls for another crossing on September 23, coinciding with Moroccan elections, and rumors of a protest outside the embassy on September 20, which have not materialised.