Poland: Authorities extend COVID-19 restrictions nationwide until Jan. 31 /update 22

Poland extends domestic and international entry COVID-19-related restrictions until Jan. 31. Expect disruptions.

Event

Authorities in Poland are extending existing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions until at least Jan. 31 in an effort to curb infections.

Domestic Restrictions

Theaters, cinemas, museums, art galleries, community centers, and music centers are closed.
Hotels are available only to business travelers.
Swimming pools, water parks, and gyms are closed.
Public gatherings of more than five people are prohibited.
Bars are closed, and restaurants are limited to takeout services only.
Online learning is mandatory for all universities and primary schools.
Capacity limits remain in place on public transport, and individuals must wear protective face coverings in all public places.

International Restrictions

Citizens and residents of EEA member states, as well as those of Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, and Tunisia, are permitted to enter without restriction. Persons entering Poland from elsewhere by public transport, which includes by air, as well as individuals who have been close to people infected with COVID-19 or who live with a person who is self-isolating, must self-isolate for 10 days on arrival. Entry restrictions for most foreign nationals remain in place, except for the following:

Spouses, children, or dependents of Polish or EEA citizens.
Foreigners who hold a Polish identity card (Karta Polaka).
Foreigners who are permanent or temporary residents of Poland.
Students enrolled in Polish educational institutions.
Scientists who are conducting research or developmental work in Poland.
Foreigners with valid work visas.

Poland has banned international flights connecting with several countries experiencing high COVID-19 activity. The list of such locations includes Armenia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Georgia, Jordan, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and the US (other than connections to airports in the states of Illinois and New York). Entry restrictions remain in force on the land borders with Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine; however, some border crossings remain open.

Restrictions could be extended, reimposed, or otherwise amended based on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as these may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.