COVID-19 lockdown rules explained: Office for Foreigners answers your most pressing questions

Due to the nationwide lockdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the Polish government has relaxed its residency rules, allowing foreign nationals to stay legally in Poland for the duration of the state of emergency. In order to eliminate confusion over the new lockdown rules, the Polish Office for Foreigners created a FAQ page addressing the most common questions asked by foreign nationals in Poland.

Visit the website of the Polish Office for Foreigners to find more information on:

• Whether your travel document is still valid
• Whether you should apply to extend your residence permit or a visa
• What happens if your residence permit and work permit expire during the state of emergency
• What to do if you are stuck in Poland and the period of your visa-free travel has ended
• Whether a travel document issued by a different Schengen country is still valid in Poland
• How to submit an application for a residence permit
• How much time you have to lodge an appeal if your application for a residence permit was rejected

The Office for Foreigners in Warsaw and most voivodeship offices in Poland have also resumed their in-person customer service for a limited number of applicants. Note, however, that phone and online services have been maintained and if you decide to visit the office in person, you are obliged to comply with certain sanitary measures (e.g. you will need to wear a face mask and gloves or sanitize your hands before entering the office). Click here for more details: Resumption of direct customer service.

For more information on current travel restrictions in Poland, visit the website of the Polish Government: Coronavirus information and recommendations.