Poland's Visa Scandal: Tightened Regulations and a Nation on Alert

Poland is enforcing stricter visa regulations following a cash-for-visa scandal under the former right-wing government that cost millions. Investigations confirm Polish consulates in Asia and Africa charged exorbitant fees for illegitimate work visas, prompting the current foreign minister to overhaul the vetting process.

The Polish government is revising its visa policies following revelations of a cash-for-visa scandal that cost millions. Under the previous right-wing administration, irregularities were rampant, with Polish consulates allegedly accepting bribes for issuing work visas.

A report by the state Supreme Audit Office confirms media allegations that consulates in Asia and Africa were complicit in selling visas, including cases where Indian farmers were misrepresented as Bollywood filmmakers. As a result, the vetting process is being tightened, particularly for student visas.

Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski emphasized stricter controls over the visa system, particularly targeting abuses observed between 2018 and 2023. Thousands of visas were reportedly issued through agencies charging excessive fees as high as 30,000 zlotys.

(With inputs from agencies.)