Poland will allow some vaccinated travelers to skip quarantine

Travelers who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 are exempt from mandatory quarantine in Poland, providing they come from the countries it is currently admitting.

Admission to Poland is currently restricted to citizens or legal residents of European Union countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Georgia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Thailand, South Korea, Tunisia and Australia, and their spouses and children. While travelers are required by law to undertake a mandatory 10-day home quarantine, this requirement was waived last month for passengers producing proof of a negative COVID-19 test on arrival, and within 48 hours of the result being obtained. Now the rules have been updated to include a waiver for vaccinated travelers.

Group of people trekking in the Tatra Mountains in Poland — Hiking is a popular activity in Poland © tramper79/Shutterstock

Restrictions have eased in Poland for its population of approximately 40 million people. The country has allowed ski slopes to reopen for a two-week trial period, and museums, art galleries and shopping centers were permitted to reopen on 1 February. Cinemas, theaters, opera houses and hotels have also been allowed to open but capacity is capped at at 50%. Restaurants can only serve take-away food, and wearing masks and adhering to social distancing is compulsory.

Travelers will find that, away from the big cities, much of Poland feels remote and unspoiled. While large swathes of the country are flat, the southern border is lined with a chain of low-lying but lovely mountains. Well-marked hiking paths criss-cross the country, taking you through dense forest, along broad rivers and through mountain passes. Much of the northeast is covered by interlinked lakes and waterways ideal for kayaking and canoeing.

Further information on entry regulations can be found on the Polish Government's website here and the US Embassy & Consulate in Poland here.