DHAKA, Feb 22, 2025 (BSS) - Italy embassy in Dhaka today reiterated its 
strong commitment to fighting corruption in the visa process and assured full 
cooperation with law enforcement authorities in both Italy and Bangladesh.

"The Embassy is providing full support to the police authorities of both
countries and has contributed actively to the understanding and
identification of fraudulent activities both in Bangladesh and in Italy," 
said a press release issued by the Italian mission here today. 

Visa applicants have been urged to avoid third-party intermediaries and 
refrain from making any payments beyond the consular and service fees 
officially set by the embassy and VFS Global, it added. 

The embassy also encouraged applicants to report any misconduct encountered 
during their visa application process.

Besides, it announced that visa processing times have improved in recent 
weeks due to the deployment of additional staff from Italy.

It expressed confidence in clearing the existing backlog in the coming 
months.

A probe conducted by the Italian Police (Guardia di Finanza) recently led to 
the indictment and house custody of two former staff members of the embassy, 
along with several other individuals from both Italy and Bangladesh, said the 
statement.

The embassy emphasised that this development underscores the stringent 
verification measures undertaken by relevant authorities to dismantle 
criminal networks and safeguard migrants from abuse and exploitation.