Warsaw Mazovia, Poland Travel Guide
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens whose nationality does not have a visa-free agreement often need a Schengen visa for short stays, up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This type covers tourism, business, or family visits (Type C).
A National Visa (Type D) is for stays longer than 90 days. Application usually involves a form, valid passport, photos, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, flight bookings, and financial evidence. Submit these to the Polish embassy or consulate in your home country. For assistance with visa applications, consider IVisa or VisaHQ.
No general entry fees apply to Poland. Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens undergo border control. Officers may ask about your visit, duration, and for financial or accommodation proof. Biometric data, like fingerprints, might be collected. No routine health-related entry conditions, like specific vaccinations, are in place for Poland.
Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation, with no less than €30,000 coverage valid for the entire Schengen area, is a potent recommendation. Proof of onward travel from the Schengen area is also helpful.
Keep these handy.
Your passport must retain validity for at least three months beyond your planned leaving the schengen Area.
For non-visa-exempt nationalities, a valid Schengen visa (Type C or D) is a condition for entry.
Confirm funds availability.
Present bank statements or a sponsor letter to show your capacity to support your stay.
While cards are accepted, some cash with PLN may be helpful for smaller purchases or local markets.
A wise addition to your travel plans.
A policy covering medical emergencies and repatriation, with a minimum of €30,000, covers your visit. World Nomads and SafetyWing are options.
Without insurance, unforeseen medical costs become your direct responsibility.
The Polish Złoty (PLN) comes in various denominations. ATMs are common. Kantor (exchange offices) are available; compare their rates. Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) see wide acceptance.
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. 10% for good restaurant service. Rounding up at cafes and for taxis. Tour guides appreciate 20-50 PLN. Small amounts for hotel staff are common.
150-250 PLN (~$37-62 / €35-58)
350-600 PLN (~$87-150 / €80-140)
800+ PLN (~$200+ / €185+)
Your well-being is a priority. This section outlines measures for a secure visit to Warsaw.
No specific vaccinations are mandatory for entry. Routine vaccinations, including MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, and Polio, are generally a good idea to keep current. A flu shot before travel is also advisable, specifically during colder months. Hep A and B vaccinations see recommendations for travelers.
Poland has both a public healthcare system (NFZ) and private clinics. Pharmacies (Apteka) are common, often with English-speaking staff. Warsaw has modern hospitals. Private clinics like Medicover and Lux Med also provide services with English-speaking staff, popular with tourists.
In case of emergency, call 112 (or the specific numbers). Clearly state the type of emergency, your location, and your contact details. Wait for instructions from the operator.
