Czech Police Report Surge in Benefit Tourism

Czech police have charged a 29-year-old Ukrainian woman with fraud for allegedly receiving humanitarian benefits intended for refugees under temporary protection status. According to investigators, the woman did not reside in the Czech Republic for extended periods but still received more than €30,000 in support payments, Echo24 reported.

The case came to light during a visa extension check carried out by asylum and migration authorities. Police later determined that the woman traveled to the Czech Republic only for registration procedures, temporary protection extensions, or changes to her registered address.

The investigation forms part of a broader issue described by Czech authorities as “benefit tourism”, in which people primarily live in Ukraine while continuing to receive social benefits in the Czech Republic.

Since the beginning of 2025, police have registered 279 similar cases involving damages exceeding €720,000.

Investigators are also examining other suspected forms of fraud, including the use of fictitious addresses, concealed partner income and forged disability certificates.

(mja)