Poland is implementing stricter visa regulations after a cash-for-visa scandal revealed widespread corruption. New policies will enforce tougher vetting of visa applications, especially for student visas, to prevent misuse and illegal migration.
Poland is ramping up its visa regulations after investigations uncovered irregularities linked to a cash-for-visa scandal under the previous government.
The scandal, which reportedly cost the public millions, has triggered a wave of reforms aimed at tightening the visa application process, according to Poland’s foreign minister, Radek Sikorski.
Stricter Visa Requirements and Application Scrutiny
The new measures will make it significantly more difficult to obtain a Polish visa, particularly one that allows unrestricted travel within the Schengen zone.
The Polish government plans to implement stricter vetting procedures, with student visa applications facing closer scrutiny to prevent abuse. This change comes as a direct response to previous instances where student visas were misused as a way to enter Europe illegally.
Visa Fees Increased Amid Reforms
Earlier this year, in response to the growing scandal, Poland increased visa fees, which were previously among the lowest in Europe. The move aimed to dissuade migrants from Asia and Africa, who often used Poland as a gateway to Europe, from taking advantage of the lenient visa system.
The cash-for-visa scheme was reportedly in direct opposition to the anti-migrant stance of the Law and Justice Party, which governed during this period.
Investigation Confirms Visa Irregularities
Poland’s Supreme Audit Office confirmed on Thursday that consulates in Asia and Africa were involved in a cash-for-visa scandal, taking thousands of dollars for work visas. The audit uncovered 46 irregularities, including corruption and poor oversight under former minister Zbigniew Rau.
One notable case involved Indian nationals posing as Bollywood filmmakers to obtain visas, while others paid large sums through dubious agencies.
Government Response
Sikorski admitted that the government mismanaged the visa system, especially from 2018 to 2023, with consuls unlawfully issuing visas, even to Russian nationals. Prime Minister Donald Tusk will announce new policies to curb illegal migration.
Auditors Highlight the Extent of the Scandal
The audit revealed that, between 2018 and early 2024, agencies collaborating with Polish consulates issued thousands of visas to individuals who paid significant sums. In one case, a single agency facilitated over 4,200 visas, with some applicants paying as much as 30,000 zlotys ($7,600 or €7,000).
Authorities are considering taking the case to prosecutors, with the state anti-corruption bureau already charging former deputy foreign minister Piotr Wawrzyk and nine other individuals as the investigation continues.
Conclusion
Poland’s tightening of visa regulations comes as the government seeks to restore control over its immigration system. With stricter measures now in place, applicants can expect more rigorous scrutiny as Poland aims to prevent further abuses and curb illegal migration.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/poland-tightens-visa-rules-amid-cash-for-visa-scandal/
