Polen

Översikt

Poland remains a stable, democratic state that has developed successfully following its transition to democracy and capitalism from communism during the 1990s, although international observers have issued concerns regarding the ongoing democratization process. Since joining the EU in 2004, Poland has enjoyed gradual financial improvements, mainly provided by EU subsidies and increased European investment in Poland. The most pertinent risk facing foreign travellers is likely to be petty crime.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Poland. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza.

Risk of tick-borne encephalitis is present in all forested areas, particularly in the voivodeships of Podlaskie, Warminsko-Mazurskie, and Opolskie.

Tap water is safe to drink in Poland.

Polish medical facilities are generally of a good standard. Some English may be spoken in hospitals but this is not always the case.

EU citizens should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before travelling, which will entitle them to be treated equally to Polish nationals should they need treatment. Travellers should also obtain the relevant medical insurance (note: an EHIC card does not provide insurance).

Most medications common to western countries can be found in Poland, although they can be branded under different names. There is a good standard of pharmacies, including 24-hour services in major cities.

Pass

Passports must be valid for at least three months after the intended date of departure. The exception is for EU nationals with valid national ID cards.

Visum

Due to Poland’s membership of the European Union (EU), EU nationals do not require visas, with a valid passport or national ID card being sufficient for entry.

For non-EU nationals, travellers are allowed a stay of up to 90 days in the country without a visa.

Travellers should have proof of both medical insurance and financial resources to cover their stay in the country, as they may be asked to provide this before entry.

Travellers can find information regarding which nationalities require a Schengen visa for entry into Poland at the European Commission Visa Policy website.