Source: European Union/Re-open EU
21.06.2021
What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate
Information not yet available.
Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements
Poland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Poland are not based on the common "EU Traffic Lights" map.
Is a coronavirus test required?
All travellers are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test.
The test must be taken within 48 hours prior to arrival.
Accepted tests: PCR, antigen
Is a quarantine required?
Travellers arriving in Poland by plane, bus, or other means of public transport, who do not provide a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen), are required to quarantine for 10 days, counting from the day following the day of entry.
The quarantine period may be ended by taking a PCR test after arrival. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Provisions for vaccinated people
Travellers who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 are exempted from compulsory quarantine (a certificate of vaccination is needed).
Find out more:
Travel information (in Polish)
Quarantine rules from 30 March (in Polish)
Documents you need to travel in Europe
Health cover for temporary stays
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Citizens and residents of Georgia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Thailand, South Korea, Tunisia and Australia may enter Poland without additional restrictions.
Travellers from third-countries outside the EU and Schengen Area are subject to the rules described hereafter.
Is a quarantine required?
Third-country travellers arriving in Poland by plane, bus, or other means of public transport, must complete a 10-day quarantine, counting from the day following the day of entry.
The quarantine period may be shortened by taking a PCR test after arrival in Poland. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Provisions for vaccinated people
Travellers who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 are exempted from compulsory quarantine (a certificate of vaccination is needed).
People who have recovered from COVID-19 infection and present proof of hospitalisation or isolation in the past 6 months do not have to quarantine.
Is a coronavirus test required?
Travellers will be able to shorten the 10-day quarantine by taking a COVID-19 test upon arrival in Poland. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
A Passenger Locator Form and a Public Health Self Declaration are requested on flights.
May I transit this country?
Yes
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restrictions.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
General measures
The measures currently in place are available at the Coronavirus Portal:
Koronawirus: informacje i zalecenia (in Polish)
Temporary limitations - Coronavirus: information and recommendations (in English)
A schedule for reopenings is available. This schedule may vary depending on the evolution of the epidemiological situation.
From 1 May:
- Uniform safety rules across the country, reopening of hair and beauty salons
- Sports in outdoor facilities limited to 50 people
- Sports in indoor facilities and swimming pools for organised groups of children and young people at maximum 50% occupancy
From 4 May:
- Reopening of art galleries and museums, with a limit of 1 person per 15 m2 and under strict sanitary regime
- Reopening of building and furniture shops and shopping malls, with a limit of 1 person per 15 m2 and under strict sanitary regime
- Religious worship: limit of 1 person per 15 m2 and recommendation to celebrate ceremonies outdoors
- full-time learning in presence for grades 1-3 of primary school, under strict sanitary regime
From 8 May:
- Reopening of hotels to guests, without exceeding 50% occupancy (restaurants and wellness areas remain closed)
From 15 May:
- Abolition of the obligation to wear masks outdoors if the infection rate falls below 15 per 100.000 people. The obligation to cover nose and mouth, indoors, with a mask will remain unchanged
- Reopening of restaurant outdoors (gardens), under strict sanitary regime (safe distance between tables and limit of persons per table)
- Reopening of cinemas and open-air theatres, at a maximum of 50% occupancy and under strict sanitary regime
- Possibility to organise events such as weddings and communions outdoors, with a limit of 25 people and under strict sanitary regime (safe distance between tables and limit of persons per table)
- Primary and secondary schools: hybrid learning for grades 4-8 of the primary schools and for grades 1-4 of the secondary schools, under strict sanitary regime
- Sports in outdoor facilities with maximum 25% of the audience
From 29 May:
- Reopening of restaurants indoors, with a maximum occupancy of 50% and under strict sanitary regime (safe distance between tables and limit of persons per table)
- Possibility to organise events such as weddings and communions indoors, with a limit of 50 people and under strict sanitary regime (safe distance between tables and limit of persons per table)
- Reopening of cinemas and theatres with a maximum occupancy of 50% of the facility and under strict sanitary regime
- Sports in indoor facilities and swimming pools accessible to everybody with a maximum occupancy up to 50% (with audience)
- Sports in gyms and fitness clubs with a limit of 1 person per 15m2 and under strict sanitary regime
- Primary and secondary schools: learning in presence for all students under strict sanitary regime
Use of facemasks
Wearing a face mask is compulsory in public places.
From 15 May, the obligation to wear masks outdoors is abolished if the infection rate falls below 15 per 100.000 people. The obligation to cover nose and mouth with a mask will remain unchanged indoors.
The obligation is waived for people who present proof of neurological, respiratory, or circulatory diseases.
Physical Distancing
A minimum distance of 1.5 metres is required between people. The following categories are excluded from this requirement:
- parents with children requiring care (up to 13 years of age);
- people living together or forming a joint household;
- people running a farm;
- people with disabilities;
- people with a certificate of need for special education and their caregivers.
Indoor and outdoor meetings, public or private gatherings and events
From 6 June, up to 150 people may participate in events and meetings, either outdoors, indoors or in designated areas. A distance between tables must be maintained (only every other table may be occupied, with a 1.5 metres distance between tables, unless there is a screen between them with a height of at least 1 metre).
From 6 June, trade fairs, congresses and conferences can be organised provided that the limit of 1 person per 15 m2 is complied with.
Safety measures for public transportation
From 6 June, all means of public transport across Poland may offer up to 75% of seats available to passengers.
Information on Tourism at National level
National website with coronavirus-related information for TOURISM
Useful Info for tourists
Before starting your journey, please check visa requirements for your destination at: The Schengen visa
EU Digital COVID Certificates
This country is already connected to the Gateway and is issuing and/or verifying at least one EU Digital COVID Certificate (Vaccination, Recovery, Test)
Information on "EU Digital COVID Certificates" issued in Poland
_________
The "EU Digital COVID Certificate" (available from 1 July 2021) provides proof that a person has either:
- been vaccinated against COVID-19 (vaccine type and manufacturer, number of doses, date of vaccination);
- received a negative test result, PCR or rapid antigen, with the name of the test, date and time of test, test centre and result (self-tests are not valid);
- recovered from COVID-19.
When travelling, holders of the "EU Digital COVID Certificate" will have the same rights as citizens of the visited Member State who have been vaccinated, tested or recovered.
The certificate provides a standardised recognition of the holder's status related to vaccination, recovery from COVID or test result. Each country continues to be responsible for the definition of its own entry requirements and rules, which are not standardised at the EU level. This means that what you will be eligible for, upon presentation of this certificate, depends on the measures and entry rules in place at your country of destination.
How does it work:
- Member States issue a certificate automatically or upon request, which is issued either digitally or on paper, and has a QR code with an electronic signature;
- Citizens store the certificate in their digital app or wallet and can use it when they travel;
- When the verifier asks the citizen for the certificate, the QR code is shown and the digital signature is verified.
Find out more:
Information on the "EU Digital COVID Certificate"
Press Release
Questions & Answers
Factsheet
06.05.2021
From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?
No
Poland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Poland are not based on the common "EU Traffic Lights" map.
Is a coronavirus test required?
All travellers are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test.
The test must be taken within 48 hours prior to arrival.
Accepted tests: PCR, antigen
Is a quarantine required?
Travellers arriving in Poland by plane, bus, or other means of public transport, who do not provide a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen), are required to quarantine for 10 days, counting from the day following the day of entry.
In addition, all travellers returning from the Czech Republic and Slovakia - also those who cross the border by car - must quarantine for 10 days.
The quarantine period may be ended by taking a PCR test after arrival. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Provisions for vaccinated people
Travellers who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 are exempted from compulsory quarantine (a certificate of vaccination is needed).
Find out more:
Travel information (in Polish)
Quarantine rules from 30 March (in Polish)
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Citizens and residents of Georgia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Thailand, South Korea, Tunisia and Australia may enter Poland without additional restrictions.
Travellers from third-countries outside the EU and Schengen Area are subject to the rules described hereafter.
Is a quarantine required?
Third-country travellers arriving in Poland by plane, bus, or other means of public transport, must complete a 10-day quarantine, counting from the day following the day of entry.
The quarantine period may be shortened by taking a PCR test after arrival in Poland. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Provisions for vaccinated people
Travellers who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 are exempted from compulsory quarantine (a certificate of vaccination is needed).
People who have recovered from COVID-19 infection and present proof of hospitalisation or isolation in the past 6 months do not have to quarantine.
Is a coronavirus test required?
Travellers will be able to shorten the 10-day quarantine by taking a COVID-19 test upon arrival in Poland. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
A Passenger Locator Form and a Public Health Self Declaration are requested on flights.
May I transit this country?
Yes
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restrictions.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
General measures
The measures currently in place are available at the Coronavirus Portal:
Koronawirus: informacje i zalecenia (in Polish)
Temporary limitations - Coronavirus: information and recommendations (in English)
A schedule for reopenings is available. This schedule may vary depending on the evolution of the epidemiological situation.
From 1 May:
- Uniform safety rules across the country, reopening of hair and beauty salons
- Sports in outdoor facilities limited to 50 people
- Sports in indoor facilities and swimming pools for organised groups of children and young people at maximum 50% occupancy
From 4 May:
- Reopening of art galleries and museums, with a limit of 1 person per 15 m2 and under strict sanitary regime
- Reopening of building and furniture shops and shopping malls, with a limit of 1 person per 15 m2 and under strict sanitary regime
- Religious worship: limit of 1 person per 15 m2 and recommendation to celebrate ceremonies outdoors
- full-time learning in presence for grades 1-3 of primary school, under strict sanitary regime
From 8 May:
- Reopening of hotels to guests, without exceeding 50% occupancy (restaurants and wellness areas remain closed)
From 15 May:
- Abolition of the obligation to wear masks outdoors if the infection rate falls below 15 per 100.000 people. The obligation to cover nose and mouth, indoors, with a mask will remain unchanged
- Reopening of restaurant outdoors (gardens), under strict sanitary regime (safe distance between tables and limit of persons per table)
- Reopening of cinemas and open-air theatres, at a maximum of 50% occupancy and under strict sanitary regime
- Possibility to organise events such as weddings and communions outdoors, with a limit of 25 people and under strict sanitary regime (safe distance between tables and limit of persons per table)
- Primary and secondary schools: hybrid learning for grades 4-8 of the primary schools and for grades 1-4 of the secondary schools, under strict sanitary regime
- Sports in outdoor facilities with maximum 25% of the audience
From 29 May:
- Reopening of restaurants indoors, with a maximum occupancy of 50% and under strict sanitary regime (safe distance between tables and limit of persons per table)
- Possibility to organise events such as weddings and communions indoors, with a limit of 50 people and under strict sanitary regime (safe distance between tables and limit of persons per table)
- Reopening of cinemas and theatres with a maximum occupancy of 50% of the facility and under strict sanitary regime
- Sports in indoor facilities and swimming pools accessible to everybody with a maximum occupancy up to 50% (with audience)
- Sports in gyms and fitness clubs with a limit of 1 person per 15m2 and under strict sanitary regime
- Primary and secondary schools: learning in presence for all students under strict sanitary regime
Use of facemasks
Wearing a face mask is compulsory in public places. However, the obligation is waived for people who present proof of advanced neurological, respiratory, or circulatory diseases with respiratory or circulatory failure.
Physical Distancing
A minimum distance of 1.5 metres is required between people. The following categories are excluded from this requirement:
- parents with children requiring care (up to 13 years of age);
- people living together or forming a joint household;
- people running a farm;
- people with disabilities;
- people with a certificate of need for special education and their caregivers.
Source: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/POL/7001
31.03.2021
From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?
NO
Poland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Poland are not based on the common "EU Traffic Lights" map.
Is a coronavirus test required?
All travellers are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test.
The test must be taken within 48 hours prior to arrival.
Accepted tests: PCR, antigen
Is a quarantine required?
Travellers arriving in Poland by plane, bus, or other means of public transport, who do not provide a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen), are required to quarantine for 10 days, counting from the day following the day of entry.
In addition, all travellers returning from the Czech Republic and Slovakia - also those who cross the border by car - must quarantine for 10 days.
The quarantine period may be ended by taking a PCR test after arrival. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Provisions for vaccinated people
Travellers who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 are exempted from compulsory quarantine (a certificate of vaccination is needed).
People who have recovered from COVID-19 infection and present proof of hospitalisation or isolation in the past 6 months do not have to quarantine.
Find out more:
Travel information (in Polish)
Quarantine rules from 30 March (in Polish)
Documents you need to travel in Europe
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Citizens and residents of Georgia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Thailand, South Korea, Tunisia and Australia may enter Poland without additional restrictions.
Travellers from third-countries outside the EU and Schengen Area are subject to the rules described hereafter.
Is a quarantine required?
Third-country travellers arriving in Poland by plane, bus, or other means of public transport, must complete a 10-day quarantine, counting from the day following the day of entry.
The quarantine period may be shortened by taking a PCR test after arrival in Poland. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Provisions for vaccinated people
Travellers who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 are exempted from compulsory quarantine (a certificate of vaccination is needed).
People who have recovered from COVID-19 infection and present proof of hospitalisation or isolation in the past 6 months do not have to quarantine.
Is a coronavirus test required?
Travellers will be able to shorten the 10-day quarantine by taking a COVID-19 test upon arrival in Poland. If the result of this test is negative, the period of quarantine can end.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
A Passenger Locator Form and a Public Health Self Declaration are requested on flights.
May I transit this country?
YES
As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restrictions.
EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.
Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.
May I enter this country by road transport?
PARTIALLY
All travellers returning from the Czech Republic and Slovakia must quarantine, also those who cross the border by car, inlcuding cross-border workers. Those who are vaccinated with two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine or those who tested negative are exempt. The test is valid for 48 hours from the moment of receiving the result.
Driving abroad
May I enter this country by train?
PARTIALLY
International rail traffic within the internal borders of the European Union has been restored; however, international rail travel crossing the external borders of the EU is suspended (currently foreseen until 9 April 2021).
Rail passenger rights
General measures
Multiple safety restrictions are in place. Rules and restrictions
In some provinces, the epidemic situation is particularly difficult, therefore rmeasures are tightened in these regions.Health cover for temporary stays
Use of facemasks
Wearing a face mask is compulsory in public places. However, the obligation is waived for people who present proof of advanced neurological, respiratory, or circulatory diseases with respiratory or circulatory failure.
Physical Distancing
A minimum distance of 1.5 metres is required between people. The following categories are excluded from this requirement:
- parents with children requiring care (up to 13 years of age);
- people living together or forming a joint household;
- people running a farm;
- people with disabilities;
- people with a certificate of need for special education and their caregivers.
Source: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/POL/7001
28.01.2021
From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?
No
Poland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Poland are not based on the common "EU Traffic Lights" map.
Is a coronavirus test required?
NO
Is a quarantine required?
All travellers arriving in Poland by plane, bus, or other means of public transport, are required to quarantine for 10 days, counting from the day following the day of entry.
Provisions for vaccinated people
Travellers who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 are exempted from compulsory quarantine (a certificate of vaccination is needed).
Mandatory Travel Documentation
A Passenger Locator Form and a Public Health Self Declaration are requested on flights.
Find out more:
General rules
Travel information (in Polish)
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Citizens and residents of Georgia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Thailand, South Korea, Tunisia and Australia may enter Poland.
A Passenger Locator Form and a Public Health Self Declaration are requested on flights.
May I transit this country?
Yes
May I enter this country by train?
Partially
International rail traffic within the internal borders of the European Union has been restored; however, the restrictions still apply to international rail travel outside the external borders of the EU.
Rail passenger rights
General measures
Until 31 January, stricter rules are in place. Rules and restrictions
Health cover for temporary stays
Use of facemasks
Wearing masks is compulsory in public places across the country. Only people who have a medical certificate or a document confirming:
- a pervasive development disorder;
- a mental disorder;
- a moderate, severe or profound intellectual disability;
- difficulties in uncovering the mouth or nose on their own;
can be exempted from this requirement.
In the following places it is not mandatory to cover mouth and nose:
- forests;
- parks;
- green squares;
- botanical gardens;
- historic gardens;
- family gardens;
- beaches;
- while travelling by private car.
Physical Distancing
A minimum distance of 1.5 metres is required between people. The following categories are excluded from this requirement:
- parents with children requiring care (up to 13 years of age);
- people living together or forming a joint household;
- people running a farm;
- people with disabilities;
- people with a certificate of need for special education and their caregivers.
23.12.2020
From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?
Yes
Entry Restrictions
Citizens of EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries, as well as their spouses and children, are allowed to enter Poland without restrictions.
EU's internal borders are open, while the country's borders that are also the EU's external borders remain closed.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
A Passenger Locator Form and a Public Health Self Declaration are requested on flights.
What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
Citizens and residents of Georgia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Thailand, South Korea, Tunisia and Australia may enter Poland.
EU's internal borders are open, while the country's borders that are also the EU's external borders remain closed. As of 09.12.2020, the following international flights shall be banned from landing: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Georgia, Jordan, Armenia, Kosovo, Serbia, North Macedonia, United States of America (except for the airports in Illinois and New York). The ban on flights does not apply to countries that notified Poland of the implementation of solutions ensuring that only passengers with a negative SARS-CoV-2 test result will be allowed to be taken on board.
A Passenger Locator Form and a Public Health Self Declaration are requested on flights.
May I transit this country?
Yes
May I enter this country by train?
Partially
International rail traffic within the internal borders of the European Union has been restored; however, the restrictions still apply to international rail travel outside the external borders of the EU.
Rail passenger rights
If I meet the entry requirements, may I enter this country without being subject to a quarantine or COVID-19 test?
Partially
The obligation to undergo quarantine is imposed on persons crossing the borders of the Republic of Poland that are also the external borders of the EU, when travelling to their place of residence or stay. Travellers crossing the internal EU borders of the Republic of Poland do not have to undergo a mandatory quarantine.
Further information is available at: Coronavirus: temporary limitations
11.09.2020
Travelling to Poland
Travelling from EU countries is allowed without restrictions.
Travelling from Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein, as well as Andorra, Monaco, Vatican City State and the Republic of San Marino, is allowed without restrictions.
Third-country nationals
Country's borders that are also the EU's external borders, remain closed. They may be crossed only by:
Polish citizens;
foreigners who are spouses or children of citizens of the Republic of Poland or remain under the constant care of citizens of the Republic of Poland;
holders of a Polish identity Card;
diplomats;
people who have the right of permanent or temporary residence in the Republic of Poland or a work permit;
in particularly justified cases, the commander of the Border Guard post, after obtaining the consent of the Commander-in-Chief of the Border Guard, may allow a foreigner to enter the territory of the Republic of Poland in accordance with the procedure specified in the Act of 12 December 2013 on foreigners (Journal of Laws of 2020, item 35);
foreigners who run a means of transport designed for the transport of goods;
citizens of European Union Member States, European Free Trade Agreement (EFTA) Member States – parties to the Agreement on the European Economic Area or Switzerland and their spouses and children, when traveling through the territory of the Republic of Poland to their place of residence or stay;
foreigners with a permanent residence permit or a long-term resident's European Union residence permit, in the territory of other European Union Member States, a Member State of the European Free Trade Agreement (EFTA) – parties to the agreement on the European Economic Area or Switzerland and their spouses and children, when travelling through the territory of the Republic of Poland, to their place of residence or stay.
Further information is available at: Coronavirus: information and recommendations
Travelling from Poland or returning to Poland
When deciding to leave, you must face possible difficulties in returning to the country, restrictions on air traffic, the obligation to quarantine or self-isolation, and to carry out additional medical examinations on behalf of the local authorities.
Country specific travel advice
Rules and Exceptions
EU's internal borders are open, while country's borders that are also the EU's external borders, remain closed.
International flights from airports located on the territory of a member state of the European Free Trade Agreement (EFTA) - parties to the agreement on the European Economic Area, Switzerland or a member state of the European Union have been resumed, except for Spain, Malta, Luxembourg and Romania.
International rail traffic has been restored within the internal borders of the European Union. However, traveling by international trains to destinations outside the EU's external borders is still suspended.
Mandatory Travel Documentation
NO
Links to relevant national sources
https://www.gov.pl/web/coronavirus/travel
Driving abroad
Source: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/POL
Entry restriction to non-Polish citizens & suspension of international air & rail travel (13.03.2020)
From Sunday, 15 March, Poland will close its borders to foreigners. All Polish citizens who are presently abroad can return to their homeland. A number of exemptions exist for foreign residents. They will also undergo a compulsory 14-day home quarantine. International passenger air flights and international rail travel will be suspended.
Start date: 15.03.2020
End date: 10 days from starting date
Further information: https://www.gov.pl/web/coronavirus/travel
Temporary and limited relaxation of the enforcement of driving and rest times for the drivers
Poland has notified a temporary and limited relaxation of the enforcement of driving and rest times for the drivers involved in international freight and passenger transport. This relaxation is granted pursuant to Article 14(2) of Regulation (EC) No 561/2006.
Start date: 18.03.2020
End date: 16.04.2020
Further information: https://ec.europa.eu/transport/sites/transport/files/temporary-relaxatio..
Remarks from the International Road Transport Union
25.06.2021
New eTOLL road user charging system in Poland for goods and passenger transport
In June 2021, Poland introduced a new tolling system (eTOLL) for all vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Mass of more than 3.5 tonnes. This included goods vehicles, buses, coaches and passenger cars with a trailer. The eTOLL system will eventually replace the current viaTOLL. The deadline will not be later the 30 September 2021, but the exact date is not known yet.
There will be a transition period until the deadline during which eTOLL and viaTOLL can be used in parallel.
More information on how to prepare for the use of the eTOLL system can be found in the attached English brochure.
Source: ZMPD
17.02.2021
Revised provisions on the cross-border shipment of waste in Poland
A foreign entrepreneur, prior to commencement of activities in the scope referred to in Art. 50 (1) of the Act on waste (including transport of waste), is obliged to submit an application and obtain an entry in the register of Databases on products and packaging and on waste management ("BDO").
The voivodeship marshal shall enter it in the register after finding that the application for entry in the register does not contain any formal defects, immediately, but not later than within 30 days from the date of receipt of the application.
A foreign entrepreneur who has established a branch in the territory of the Republic of Poland shall submit an application for entry in the register in the BDO system through a person authorized to represent him, to the marshal of the province competent for the seat of the branch.
Detailed instructions on how to submit an application for entry to the BDO can be found here.
A foreign entrepreneur who has not established a branch in the territory of the Republic of Poland, submits an application for entry in the BDO register directly to the Marshal of the Mazowieckie Voivodeship in writing, printed and signed by the entrepreneur or the person representing him. Application form for entry in the register can be downloaded here.
After obtaining an entry in the Register-BDO, in order to perform activities in the BDO system, e.g. updating data in the entry, keeping waste records or reporting, it is necessary to log in to the BDO system via the National Electronic Identification Node (WKIE). A foreign entrepreneur or a person representing him does not have to be a Polish citizen to be able to log in via WKIE. The identity of the person authorized to represent in WKIE may be confirmed by means of a trusted profile or a bank connected to WKIE. In both cases, a citizen of a foreign country must have a PESEL number. The method of obtaining a PESEL number and establishing a trusted profile is described in the information here.
Alternatively, foreigners may act through a person authorized to represent or an attorney who has a PESEL number (not necessarily a Polish citizen).
Source: ZMPD/ BDO website
02.11.2020
Driving restrictions in Poland in 2021 can be found in the attached document.
Source: ZMPD
10.06.2020
26.06.2020
As of 00:00 on 13 June, internal borders with other EU countries have been opened; travellers can freely entry, exit and transit through Poland. The lifting also implies the lifting of sanitary controls and quarantine requirements. Controls are maintained on borders with Russia, Belarus and Ukraine.
Foreign nationals of non-EU countries are still banned from entering Poland, but the following categories are exempted from the provision:
- Polish citizens.
- Foreigners who are spouses or children of Polish citizens, or who remain under their constant care.
- Foreigners holding a Polish Card.
- Heads of diplomatic missions and members of the mission's diplomatic and consular staff, i.e. persons with a diplomatic rank and members of their families.
- Foreigners who have the right of permanent or temporary residence in Poland.
- Foreigners who have the right to work in Poland, i.e. foreigners entitled to work under the same conditions as Polish citizens, who have a work permit, a certificate of entry in the register regarding seasonal work, a statement on entrusting work to a foreigner on the territory of the Republic of Poland who:
- perform work in Poland, or
- present documents showing that the commencement of work will begin immediately after crossing the border.
- Foreigners who carry out transport operations of persons or goods transiting through Poland, provided the transit is part of their professional activity.
- Drivers performing road transport as part of international road transport or international combined transport travelling through Poland by other means of transport than the vehicle used for road transport in order to (a) take their rest period in the territory of the country of stay or (b) after having taken the rest referred to and after a break in carrying out the work in the circumstances specified in the Act on drivers' working time.
- Pupils and students studying in Poland.
- Citizens and residence permit holders of European Union Member States, European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Member States - parties to the Agreement on the European Economic Area or the Swiss Confederation and their spouses and children, who travel through Poland to reach their place of residence or stay.
Members are reminded that EU goods and passengers drivers are free to carry out transport operations to, through and from Poland.
Source: ZMPD
10.06.2020
Polish authorities will restrict the movements of heavy goods vehicles on 10 and 11 June due to security reasons during a big religious event.
The ban will be in force between 18:00 and 22:00 on 10 June and between 08:00 and 22:00 on 11 June (Belarus has a different time zone, therefore the period of validity of the provision will be between 19:00 and 23:00 on 10 June and between 09:00 and 23:00 on 11 June)
The ban will not be applicable to goods vehicles transporting dangerous and perishable goods, foodstuffs and live animals. Neither ban will be applicable to vehicles which, by the time of introduction of restrictions, are already inside the terminals and have completed formalities for entry/exit, as well as to buses operating internationally. The notice can be read here.
Source: Grodno Border Service Command
04.06.2020
On 30 May, Poland lifted the transit ban for goods drivers that carried out international transport operations and are passing through the Polish territory with other means of transport in order to reach their place of rest or get back from it. Now, once at the Polish border, those drivers should present an appropriate certificate or a copy of the employment contract, a driving license (or a driving license with code 95), and the driver qualification card or driver’s certificate.
Source: ZMPD
13.05.2020
On 12 May, the Polish Government extended controls at borders until 12 June 2020. The full notice can be read here.
Source: ZMPD
06.05.2020
On 30 April, the Polish Prime Minister announced a relaxation of the conditions imposed on commuters at border crossing points. From 4 May, Polish citizens working or studying in Germany will no longer have to spend 14 days in quarantine when returning to Poland, and corresponding regulations have been agreed with neighbouring countries.
Polish borders are still closed for foreigners, this applies until 13 May. People with permanent residence permits, truck drivers and diplomats are exempt from the provision.
Source: DSLV
23.04.2020
As from 23 April, drivers operating in Poland are obliged to wear a face mask whilst they are outside of their cabin. In case there are two people in the cabin, both of them have to wear a face mask whilst driving.
Source: ZMPD
17.04.2020
The Polish Ministry of Infrastructure relaxed rules on driving and rest times from 17 April to 31 May. Relaxations apply to drivers performing national and international road transport of goods and persons, and are as follows:
- the daily driving time may not exceed 11 hours (derogation of Article 6 (1)),
- the weekly driving time may not exceed 60 hours (derogation of Article 6 (2)),
- the total driving time over the next two weeks may not exceed 96 hours (derogation of Article 6 (3)),
- after a driving period of five and a half hours, the driver is entitled to a continuous break of at least forty-five minutes (derogation of Article 7),
- if a driver makes this choice, he can also use the regular weekly rest period in the vehicle, provided he has adequate sleeping facilities for each driver and the vehicle is stationary (derogation from Article 8 (8)).
Temporary derogations from the application of the provisions apply to drivers performing road haulage. Whereas, drivers performing road passenger transport are subject to the above-mentioned derogations, only in the case of transport carried out in connection with the return of citizens to their countries of residence.
According to the wording of the notification agreed with the European Commission:
- the drivers referred to above must indicate, on the back of the analogue tachograph record sheet or the digital tachograph printout, the derogation cases,
- the use of temporary derogations must not cause deterioration of drivers' working conditions and road safety levels.
Source: ZMPD
26.03.2020
In the ordinance dated 24 March 2020, the Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration has extended the period of border control at the internal border with Germany, Lithuania, the Czech Republic and Slovakia by another 20 days, i.e. until 13 April. The current restrictions on the entry of foreigners into Poland will also be maintained.
Full text of the ordinance can be found here.
On 24 March, Polish Authorities amended the rules on mandatory quarantine: drivers engaged in international road transport operations using vehicles below 3.5 tonnes are not any longer subject to quarantine.
The provision entered into force immediately.
Source: ZMPD
______________________________________________________________________
Restrictions
On 13 March, the Prime Minister of Poland announced a “state of emergency”. In addition to measures to limit public gatherings, the government announced that border controls will be temporarily restored from 15 March(00:00) for 10 days (renewable). During this period:
- Foreigners will not be allowed to enter Polish national territory. All air traffic and train movements coming from abroad will be temporarily suspended.
- Polish citizens and foreigners working in Poland that are returning from abroad must undergo a two week quarantine period.
- National bus, air and rail transport will operate normally.
- International road freight transport is not included in these restrictions. Borders remain open to the flow of goods and truck drivers operating international road freight will not have to comply with the two week quarantine period. The list of border crossing points open during this period is available here.
On 19 March, the Polish Minister of Health lifted the previous duty of fulfillment of driver localisation forms. In addition, according to information on the Border Guard website, quarantine is not imposed on:
- people living in Poland who work in a neighbouring country and who regularly cross the border (cross border workers).
- foreigners living in a neighbouring country who work in Poland and cross the border regularly (cross border workers).
- drivers engaged in the professional transport of goods and passengers.
Health checks are still taking place at border crossing points. Drivers with a temperature of above 38 degrees will automatically undergo a medical examination and will not be able to continue driving.
The updated border waiting times can be found here: www.granica.gov.pl.
Relieves
The Polish Minister of Transport has introduced a temporary relaxation of the enforcement of driving and rest times for drivers performing international road transport of passengers and goods. This exception applies from 18⁄03⁄2020 to 16⁄04⁄2020, included. The relaxation concerns only international transport and covers EU-registered hauliers only (not applicable to Contracting Parties of the AETR Agreement). Measures lifted are the following:
- Daily vehicle transport time cannot exceed 11 hours.
- The weekly transport time of the vehicle cannot exceed 60 hours.
- The total transport time of the vehicle over a consecutive two week period may not exceed 96 hours.
- After a five and a half hour period of driving, the driver shall be entitled to a continuous break of at least forty-five minutes.
Due to the extended transport time of the vehicle, from 9 to 11 hours, no derogations will be applied on daily and weekly rest periods.
Source: ZMPD