Visa-Free Travel For Ukrainians Coming to Poland

Ukrainians are now officially permitted to have Visa-Free travel and enter the territory of the European Union without presenting a visa. This is possible due to new EU regulations that have just entered into effect. This is a big change for the citizens of Poland’s eastern neighbor. Provided they fulfill certain conditions, they are now free to come to Poland (and other EU member states) without applying for a visa, paying for the document and waiting for it.

To be allowed no-visa entry, first of all, a person has to have a biometric passport. It includes not only information normally found in a standard passport or other identification document, but also biometric data such as fingerprint or iris scans, which are stored in a chip. Although this form of authentication is not yet present in Poland, Ukraine has already implemented this solution and has been issuing biometric passports since 2015.

What is more, a Ukrainian person coming to the EU has to have insurance and money allowing them to support themselves during their stay (for Poland this is 300 PLN for the first three days and 75 PLN for every extra day). Being denied entry in the past means you will not be allowed visa-free travel. The stay cannot exceed 90 days per every half a year. Changes to the visa regulations do not apply to the United Kingdom and Ireland. To visit those countries, Ukrainians still have to apply for a visa.

Experts warn that the new EU law is bad news for the Polish economy. Our country already has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the EU and business owners are starting to experience employee shortages. Job gaps, especially among unskilled and low-skilled workers, are usually filled with economic migrants from Ukraine. Now that Ukrainian citizens may have visa-free travel to the EU without a visa, they will likely choose high Western wages over the salaries offered by Polish entrepreneurs.

Business Implications for Poland

Economic and regulatory developments in Poland have broad implications for businesses operating in the country. Poland’s economy, the largest in Central and Eastern Europe, continues to attract international investors and entrepreneurs seeking EU market access, competitive costs, and a skilled workforce of over 17 million workers.

For foreign companies and entrepreneurs doing business in Poland, staying informed about economic trends, regulatory changes, and market dynamics is essential for strategic decision-making. Whether you are considering entering the Polish market, expanding existing operations, or optimizing your corporate structure, professional advisory support can help navigate the complexities of the Polish business environment.

Poland offers a comprehensive business infrastructure including special economic zones with tax incentives, a well-developed banking system, modern office space in major cities, and a legal framework aligned with EU standards. These factors, combined with Poland’s strategic geographic position between Western and Eastern Europe, make it an attractive hub for businesses targeting the broader European market.

If you are doing business in Poland or considering entering the Polish market, Zalewski Consulting can help. Learn more about our corporate tax advisory, or contact us for a free consultation.