A Ukrainian man in Vietnam encountered additional checks when flying to Europe

A Ukrainian man living in Vietnam described difficulties when attempting to fly to Europe — he was held at passport control in Bangkok and subjected to additional checks by a so-called “migration agent” representing the EU.

The man was attempting to fly from Bangkok to Milan on a Ukrainian passport. Thai border officers, before allowing him to board, contacted a “migration agent” from Germany. The agent demanded that the Ukrainian purchase a return ticket, warning that without one he would be denied entry into Europe. He was forced to buy the ticket.

The checks did not end there. The agent also demanded proof of income and bank account statements. Only after all these conditions were met was the man allowed to board.

During the check, the Ukrainian was told that the “migration agent” is an EU representative who works in coordination with Thai border officers and has the authority to block a Ukrainian citizen’s entry into the European Union.

“I felt like a slave,” the Ukrainian said following the incident.