Warsaw, 4 October 2024 – In response to a recent visa-related scandal, the Polish government is planning to tighten visa regulations and increase fines. For UK and US nationals planning to visit or relocate to Poland, these changes could bring additional challenges. While travelers from both countries enjoy visa-free entry for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) under Schengen rules, those intending to work, study, or stay long-term will face stricter requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the new visa rules in Poland.
Poland, new stricter visa rules
According to Poland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, new rules will soon be implemented that will primarily affect non-EU nationals. The changes will tighten the visa issuance process, particularly for work, student, and long-term residence permits. Penalties for employers found hiring foreign workers illegally or engaging in fraudulent schemes to bring workers into Poland will increase dramatically. The government also plans to introduce stricter oversight for businesses and universities employing or admitting foreign nationals to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
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These new measures are in response to visa-related scandals and concerns about irregular immigration. The goal is to curb visa abuse and reinforce Poland’s border security, reducing the risk of illegal immigration. Under the new system, visa applicants will undergo more thorough background checks, and embassies will be required to verify details like tax and social security records. This follows recent reports of irregularities, including instances where visas were allegedly sold under false pretenses (Rzeczpospolita).
Higher fines for fraudulent visa application
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of stricter penalties for those caught submitting fraudulent visa applications. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that Polish employers found guilty of hiring foreign workers illegally will face fines of approximately €670 (PLN 3,000). Additionally, the Ministry has proposed a substantial fine of €23,214 (PLN 100,000) for employers who facilitate the entry of foreign workers into the country under false pretenses of employment.
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Stricter rules for student visas
Starting with the 2026/2027 academic year, Poland will enforce tougher requirements for student visas. Applicants will need to submit proof of secondary education and demonstrate at least B2-level proficiency in the language of instruction. Additionally, foreign students will be closely monitored through the Integrated Information System on Higher Education and Science, aimed at preventing visa misuse.
„So far, there has been no control of foreign students. Visas were issued automatically. This must end,” said Marek Sowa, head of the parliamentary commission investigating the recent visa scandal, in an interview with Rzeczpospolita.
In a significant new measure, special services such as the Internal Security Agency and Military Counterintelligence Service will oversee universities admitting international students. These agencies will have the authority to request a ban of up to five years on institutions found violating visa regulations.
Implications for UK nationals post-Brexit
Since Brexit, UK nationals are treated as third-country citizens under Schengen rules. While short visits for tourism, business, or family reasons remain straightforward, the new visa regulations will make long-term stays—such as for work or study—more difficult.
UK citizens applying for residence, work, or student visas in Poland will face increased documentation requirements. This includes proof of employment, university enrollment, and financial stability. These added layers of scrutiny could lead to longer processing times and potential rejections if applications are incomplete or inaccurate.
Additionally, the heavier fines for visa fraud mean that UK nationals need to be particularly cautious about submitting accurate and truthful information. Providing false information could result in steep penalties or even a ban from re-entering Poland or other Schengen countries.
New visa rules in Poland – Impact on US nationals
US nationals, like their UK counterparts, enjoy visa-free travel for short stays in Poland. However, those planning to work or study for an extended period will be subject to the new, stricter regulations.
US citizens applying for long-term residence or work permits should prepare for increased documentation requirements, including verification of employment contracts or academic credentials. Applications will undergo more rigorous checks to ensure legitimacy. As with UK nationals, US citizens could face fines or entry bans if found submitting false information during the visa process.
What should UK and US nationals expect?
- Longer processing times: With increased documentation and stricter scrutiny, visa processing times may lengthen, especially for work or study permits.
- Stricter documentation: UK and US nationals will need to ensure that all necessary documents—such as employment contracts, university acceptances, and proof of financial stability—are in order to avoid delays or rejections.
- Potential penalties: The new regulations include steep fines for submitting inaccurate information, up to €10,000, along with potential entry bans for violators.
For both UK and US citizens, these changes signal a shift toward stricter immigration policies in Poland, reflecting a broader trend across Europe. While short visits remain unaffected, those planning long-term stays should be prepared for a more complex visa process, with greater risks for errors or omissions.