Poland Issued 31% Fewer Schengen Visas in the First Half of 2024
Key Points
1. Poland has significantly reduced the number of visas issued to foreign nationals.
2. In the first half of 2024, visa issuances dropped by 31% compared to the same period last year.
3. The reduction in visas is a response to stricter rules implemented after last year’s visa scandal.
The number of Polish Schengen visas granted in the first six months of 2024 decreased by 31% compared to the same period in 2023, due to tightened visa regulations.
According to Maciej Duszczyk, Undersecretary of State in Poland's Ministry of Interior and Administration, only 203,810 Schengen visas were issued between January and June 2024, a notable decline from the 295,892 visas issued in the first half of 2023.
This 31% decrease affected all visa categories, with an even sharper decline in national visa issuance. The number of Polish national Schengen visas issued in the first half of 2024 fell by 34% compared to the same period in 2023, dropping from 239,947 to 158,312.
Poland began reducing the number of visas granted to foreigners at the start of 2024, aiming to address the fallout from the visa scandal that dominated headlines last year.
Earlier this year, a Polish Consul disclosed that Polish embassies abroad are now issuing very few work visas, focusing only on IT and other skilled workers who contribute significantly to the economy and do not exploit the system.
Poland Tightens Student Visa Rules
In addition to stricter work visa regulations, Poland has also tightened rules for international students applying for student visas.
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski announced earlier this week that the country would no longer grant visas to foreign students who fail to present a high school diploma.
This decision follows revelations that some universities in Poland were admitting students from third countries without properly verifying their eligibility.
Additionally, many students were found to be entering Poland for studies but then using their visas to work in the Schengen Area.
Recent Audit Uncovers Visa Issuance Issues
A recent inspection by Poland’s Supreme Audit Office revealed that Schengen visas were issued without proper oversight in the past.
The audit, which produced a 360-page report, indicated serious findings, though further details were not disclosed. The Supreme Audit Office plans to hold a comprehensive conference soon to share all irregularities with the public.