Poland: Authorities have tightened COVID-19 related international entry restrictions as of Dec. 17 /update 47

Event

The government has tightened COVID-19-related international entry measures due to concerns over the Omicron virus variant. As of Dec. 17, all travelers above the age of 12 years arriving from non-Schengen countries must present a negative PCR or antigen test result taken no more than 24 hours before arrival, regardless of vaccination status; the result must be in English or Polish. Arrivals without such a result must self-isolate for 14 days; travelers may end the quarantine period on day eight by providing a negative PCR test result. Authorities have advised that travelers will be able to test at some Polish airports before the border passport control.

Domestic Restrictions
Most nonessential businesses and services are permitted to operate subject to social distancing requirements and capacity limits. Facemasks remain mandatory in enclosed public spaces. Authorities are maintaining capacity limits on various businesses, facilities, and events, including churches, restaurants, hotels, weddings, and meetings.

International Entry Restrictions
All travelers arriving from the EU, Schengen Area, or Turkey must present either proof of vaccination or recovery, or a negative PCR or rapid antigen test result dated no more than 48 hours before arrival. Travelers arriving without any of these documents must self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival.

All travelers arriving from outside of the Schengen Area who do not possess an EU digital COVID vaccine certification or a vaccination certificate from the UK must self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival. Travelers may end the quarantine period on day eight by providing a negative PCR test.

All travelers arriving via air must fill out a passenger locator form before entry; to download a copy of the form, click here.

Authorities have banned all flights from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe through at least Dec. 27.

Authorities could extend, reimpose, or otherwise amend restrictions 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 they 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.

Resources

COVID-19 Information and Recommendations
Vaccines Authorized by European Union