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Poland visas

Poland transit visa

Most travellers can change flights at one Polish airport without a visa if they stay in the international transit area for less than one day. Some nationalities need an airport transit visa even when staying there.

Ways to get a Poland transit visa

  1. Airport transfer without a visa

    Transit without a visa

    Travellers not subject to airport transit visa rules, or those who qualify for an exemption.

    Stay
    Less than one day in the international transit area.

Who needs it

Ordinary passport holders from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Armenia, Cuba and Egypt need an airport transit visa unless exempt.

Who doesn't

Exemptions cover certain visa and residence permit holders, diplomatic passport holders, family members of EU single market citizens and flight crew.

Changing planes

Can you stay airside?
Yes, without a visa if you stay in the transit area
Leaving the airport
Leaving the international transit area means the airport transit exemption no longer applies. You need permission to enter Poland, such as visa-free entry or a valid Schengen visa.
Longest transit
24 hours
Transit without a visa
Transfer through one airport, stay in its international transit area for less than 24 hours, and have a connection that allows this. Travellers subject to airport transit visa rules must also qualify for an exemption.

Good to know

  • Check that the airport layout and your connecting flight allow you to remain in the international transit area.
  • The general exemption covers a transfer through one airport.
  • The limit is less than 24 hours, not a full 24 hours.
  • Poland adds Armenia, Cuba and Egypt to the common airport transit visa list.

Questions

Do I need a transit visa for Poland?

Ordinary passport holders from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Armenia, Cuba and Egypt need an airport transit visa unless exempt. Exemptions cover certain visa and residence permit holders, diplomatic passport holders, family members of EU single market citizens and flight crew.

What are the ways to get a transit visa for Poland?

There are 2 options: Airport transfer without a visa (transit without a visa); Airport transit visa (a visa from an embassy).

How long can I stay on a Poland transit visa?

Less than one day for the general visa-free airport transfer rule.

How long can I stay in transit in Poland?

Up to 24 hours, if you meet the conditions. Transfer through one airport, stay in its international transit area for less than 24 hours, and have a connection that allows this. Travellers subject to airport transit visa rules must also qualify for an exemption.

Can I stay inside the airport in Poland without a visa?

Yes, staying in the international transit area is allowed for most travellers. To leave the airport: Leaving the international transit area means the airport transit exemption no longer applies. You need permission to enter Poland, such as visa-free entry or a valid Schengen visa.

What rules do I have to follow on a Poland transit visa?

Check that the airport layout and your connecting flight allow you to remain in the international transit area. The general exemption covers a transfer through one airport.

Does my passport change whether I need a transit visa for Poland?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Poland visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a transit visa for Poland be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Poland transit visa rules?

On Poland's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my transit visa once I am in Poland?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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