What a real confirmation looks like
It is in the applicant’s name, with their NIE or passport, and shows office, address, day, time and a code generated by the official system.
If it carries another name “that gets changed at the office”, it isn’t an appointment: identity is checked at the door.
Check it yourself
On the government website, under appointment lookup or cancellation, enter your details. If it exists it appears with its office and time. Check that the address is a real office in your province and keep a dated screenshot.
Warning signs
Full payment up front before any appointment exists.
An appointment “already booked” before you have given your details.
Promises of an exact date, of speeding up your file, or of “contacts” at the office.
Cash only, or payment with no receipt.
If you suspect fraud
Don’t pay more and verify on the official site. If the appointment doesn’t exist, keep the messages and receipts: they are the basis of a police report.
General information, not legal advice. For questions about your own case, check the decision you were sent or ask a professional.