Poland travel info
Electricity
The voltage is 230 volts, 50Hz. The standard two-pin European style plugs are used.
Language
The national language is Polish; however, English is widely understood in tourist areas.
Money
The official currency of Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN), which is subdivided into 100 groszy. While cash remains the preferred payment method, especially for smaller transactions, credit cards and digital payments are increasingly common, particularly in major cities. ATMs are widespread; mobile payment systems such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used, making cashless transactions a breeze for many. Money can be exchanged at various locations, with banks, hotels and currency exchange offices (kantors) offering the best rates.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants in Poland, with 10 percent to 15 percent being the standard for good service. When paying the bill, it's customary to hand the money directly to the waiter or waitress. Saying 'thank you' ('dziękuję') signals that they can keep the change. Rounding up the bill is also common.
While tipping isn't the norm in hotels, leaving a small daily tip of around 10 PLN for housekeeping is considered polite. Tipping is also appreciated for services such as guided tours, where a 10 percent to 15 percent tip is standard for a job well done.
For taxis, it's typical to round up the fare or leave a tip of about 10 percent, especially for longer rides or if the driver assists with luggage. For shorter trips, rounding up the fare is usually sufficient.
Health
There are few health risks associated with travel to Poland, as it's generally considered safe for visitors. After Brexit, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) was replaced by the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC provides access to state healthcare in Poland and other EU countries. The GHIC isn't a substitute for travel insurance, as it may not cover all medical expenses or repatriation costs.
Medical facilities in Poland are of good quality, with standards comparable to Western Europe. If travellers are bringing prescription medication, they should make sure to carry a signed and dated letter from their doctor detailing the medication, its dosage and the medical condition it treats. This documentation can help avoid any issues at customs and ensure travellers have access to necessary medications.
Safety
Poland is a very safe country to travel in, though inevitably there is some petty crime. Pick pocketing does occur and visitors should be cautious around busy transport hubs, markets and tourist sites.
Local customs
In Poland, a little courtesy goes a long way. Locals tend to be polite but reserved in public, so a friendly nod or quiet 'dzień dobry' (good day) when entering a shop or passing someone in a stairwell is always appreciated. People value personal space, so keeping a respectful distance and speaking at a moderate volume in public places is the norm. On public transport, it's considered thoughtful to offer a seat to the elderly, pregnant women or anyone who might need it more. When greeting someone, a firm handshake and eye contact are the standard, and both should be warm but not overly familiar. When waiting in line, it's best to hold a spot as cutting in is a serious faux pas. Small gestures of respect such as these make a big difference and are often met with a quiet but genuine smile.
Doing business
Poland blends tradition with modernity, and this is reflected in its business culture. Professional interactions are formal but warm, with a strong emphasis on respect. A firm handshake and direct eye contact are standard greetings.
Business people use formal titles such as Pan (Mr) and Pani (Mrs or Ms) followed by the surname. First names are used only once a relationship is established, typically after a few meetings, and usually at the invitation of the Polish counterpart.
Punctuality is essential, and standard business hours are 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, often without a formal lunch break. Dress is formal and conservative, with suits and ties being the norm. English is widely spoken in business, but using a few basic Polish phrases is seen as a sign of respect.
Duty free
Travellers to Poland over 17 years, arriving from non-EU countries, do not have to pay duty on 250 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; 1 litre wine and 1 litre spirits; cosmetics and medicines for personal use; gifts up to the value of €430. Travellers to Poland arriving from within the EU do not have to pay duty on 800 cigarettes or 200 cigars or 1kg smoking tobacco; 10 litres spirits, 90 litres wine and 110 litres beer. Prohibited items include birds and poultry arriving from countries infected with avian influenza. The export of all articles of artistic, historic or cultural value are subject to special regulations.
Communications
The international access code for Poland is +48 and WiFi is available in towns and cities.
Passport & Visa
For individuals requiring a visa, a passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay. Visa-exempt nationals generally need a passport valid for the duration of their stay, with the exception of nationals from the European Economic Area (EEA) countries.
The Schengen Area is a border-free zone made up of 27 European countries, including nations such as France, Germany, Italy and Spain. These countries share a common visa policy, issuing a standard Schengen Visa that allows travellers to move freely across all member countries. The visa often includes a multiple-entry option, so holders can enter and exit the area multiple times without needing a new visa each time.
Entry requirements
US nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Passports must be valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay.
UK nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Passports must be valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay.
Canadian nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Passports must be valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay.
Australians require a passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
South African passport holders require a visa for travel to Poland. Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay.
Irish nationals require a passport that's valid on arrival, but no visa is necessary.
New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay. A visa is not needed for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Useful contacts
Polish National Tourist Office, Warsaw: +48 (0)22 536 7070 or www.pot.gov.pl.
112 (Fire Department, Ambulance) 997 (Police).