Americans can visit Poland visa-free for up to 90 days. Here's what you need to know about entry requirements for Warsaw, Krakow, and the upcoming ETIAS changes.
Poland has become one of Europe's most popular destinations for Americans, from the historic streets of Krakow to the rebuilt beauty of Warsaw. Here's what you need to know about entry requirements.
The Short Answer: No Visa Needed
US citizens do not need a visa to visit Poland. According to the US State Department, Americans can travel to Poland visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
Poland joined the Schengen Area in 2007, meaning the same visa-free rules that apply throughout Western Europe apply here. Your US passport gets you access under standard Schengen conditions.
The 90/180-Day Rule
Poland follows the Schengen 90/180-day rule: you can stay up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period across the entire Schengen Area.
Time spent in Poland counts toward your 90-day total along with any other Schengen countries. Two weeks in Warsaw, a month in Berlin, and a week in Amsterdam all draw from the same allowance.
Entry Requirements
According to the Polish government, you'll need:
- Valid US passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area.
- Proof of sufficient funds: Evidence you can support yourself during your stay.
- Return or onward ticket: Proof of your plans to leave.
These requirements apply whether you're visiting Warsaw, Krakow, Gdansk, or any other Polish city.
What's Changing: EES and ETIAS
Entry/Exit System (EES): Active since late 2025, this system collects biometrics (fingerprints and facial image) when entering the Schengen Area at Polish borders.
ETIAS: Starting in late 2026, Americans will need ETIAS authorization before traveling to Poland. The fee is €20 (with exemptions for certain age groups), most applications are processed within minutes, and it's valid for 3 years or until your passport expires.
If you're planning a trip before late 2026, you won't need ETIAS. For trips after the launch date, apply online before booking your flight.
Staying Longer Than 90 Days
For stays beyond the 90-day Schengen limit, you'll need to apply for a longer-term visa or residence permit from a Polish consulate before your trip.
Poland offers various visa categories including student visas, work permits, and temporary residence permits. The process requires documentation of your purpose and means of support.
US-Poland Relations
Poland and the United States have strong diplomatic ties, and Americans generally receive a warm welcome. The large Polish-American community means many Poles have family connections to the US, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Track Your Days
If you're combining Poland with other European destinations, keep track of your Schengen days. Use our free Schengen calculator or download the Days Monitor app on iOS for automatic tracking.
Disclaimer: Entry requirements can change. Always verify current information with the US State Department before traveling.
Track Your Schengen Days
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