Poland Entry Guide 2026

U.S. citizens can enter Poland for tourism, business, or family visits for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.

• Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
• ETIAS (Late 2026): U.S. citizens will eventually need ETIAS authorization for entry, though it is not yet fully mandatory as of early 2026.
• Proof of Funds: Border officials may ask for proof of sufficient financial means (approx. 75 PLN per day of stay).
• Insurance: While not strictly required for visa-free entry, travel insurance with €30,000 coverage is strongly recommended.

Required for U.S. students enrolled in courses longer than 90 days.

• Letter of Acceptance: Must be an original document from a recognized Polish university confirming full-time study.
• Tuition Payment: Proof of payment for at least the first year of studies is typically required.
• Living Funds: You must prove at least 776 PLN per month for single persons (after deducting accommodation costs).
• Accommodation: A signed lease agreement or a dormitory confirmation is mandatory (hotel bookings are often rejected).

Effective January 1, 2026, all residence permit applications must be submitted exclusively via the **MOS (Moduł Obsługi Spraw)** online portal.

• Work Permit Type A: For foreigners employed by a Polish company. Your employer must first apply for this at the Voivodeship Office.
• Minimum Wage: From January 1, 2026, the minimum wage in Poland has increased to **4,806 PLN gross** per month.
• Digital Signature: All MOS filings now require a qualified electronic signature or a "Trusted Profile" (Profil Zaufany).
• Visa Fee: The fee for a National (Type D) visa for work purposes is now **€200**.

Poland offers a temporary residence permit for those who can prove self-sufficiency through remote work.

• Financial Requirement: Documentation proving stable income from remote employment or sole proprietorship outside Poland.
• Health Insurance: Schengen-approved insurance covering €30,000 is mandatory.
• No Local Market Access: This visa typically does not allow you to work for Polish employers.