Published on
September 11, 2025
By 2025, Germany has joined with the United Kingdom and Italy to circulate urgent travel advisories concerning Poland. The warnings enumerate substantial disruptions at national frontiers and intensifying security hazards on Polish territory. Prolonged geopolitical strains, especially in Polish border regions with Belarus and Ukraine, have prompted sporadic closures of customs posts, augmented military deployments, and rising anxieties regarding terrorist and criminal activity. Accordingly, each advisory urges potential visitors to reassess their itineraries or, at minimum, to adopt strict prudential measures throughout their stay in Poland, with particular emphasis on proximity to the defined theatres of tension, where the environment remains irregular and may present serious risk.
As geopolitical tensions escalate in Eastern Europe, Germany has joined the United Kingdom and Italy in issuing travel advisories for Poland. With rising security risks, border instability, and ongoing military exercises near its borders, the warnings are becoming increasingly significant for both business and leisure travelers. This article delves into the critical travel advice for Poland as issued by Germany, the UK, and Italy, highlighting key issues such as border closures, the ongoing security situation, and essential travel precautions.
Germany’s Travel Advisory for Poland
Germany’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a heightened travel advisory for Poland in light of several security concerns, including military drills and escalating tensions with neighboring Belarus and Russia. The advisory emphasizes caution for travelers heading to Poland, particularly near the eastern border regions, where the geopolitical situation remains volatile. The ongoing border controls, closure of specific crossings, and security threats require travelers to be more vigilant than ever before. Here are the critical details from Germany’s travel advisory:
Border Closures with Belarus: As part of its ongoing security measures, Poland will be closing its border with Belarus starting September 12, 2025, due to the “Sapad” military exercises involving Russian and Belarusian armed forces. This action adds to the already strained situation in the region, which may lead to additional delays and restrictions in cross-border traffic.Ongoing Border Controls: Since July 2025, Poland has imposed increased border controls at several entry points, including the Polish-German and Polish-Lithuanian borders. This could cause delays for travelers, and border police may carry out checks at various locations, depending on the security situation.Risk of Military Escalation: Given the proximity to ongoing military activity and the presence of military forces near Poland’s eastern borders, travelers are strongly urged to avoid non-essential travel to areas close to the Belarus and Ukraine borders.Photography Ban in Sensitive Areas: A ban on photographing military and strategically important facilities has been in effect since April 2025. The ban includes sites such as military installations, bridges, communication infrastructures, and certain financial facilities. Travelers must remain aware of this restriction to avoid legal repercussions.Security and Crime Concerns: Although Poland generally experiences low levels of crime, travelers should be vigilant in tourist-heavy areas, where pickpocketing and other petty crimes can occur. Additionally, the growing risk of scams and vehicle theft in urban areas and on public transportation should not be overlooked.UK’s Travel Advisory for Poland
The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) issued an urgent travel advisory for Poland, particularly highlighting concerns regarding the security risks posed by the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. As Russia’s military actions continue near Poland’s borders, the advisory stresses the unpredictability of the situation and advises travelers to exercise caution when traveling to the region. Below are the key points from the UK’s advisory:
Proximity to Military Strikes: The UK government has emphasized that military strikes by Russia have been conducted within 20 kilometers of the Polish border, making the border regions extremely risky. Travelers are urged to avoid any non-essential travel to areas near Ukraine.Travel Restrictions to the Ukraine-Poland Border: Due to ongoing conflict in Ukraine, access to the border is restricted, and travelers should anticipate delays or suspensions in services near the affected areas.Travel Insurance is Critical: In light of the current geopolitical climate, UK travelers are strongly advised to secure appropriate travel insurance that covers the potential risks associated with traveling to Poland, including cancellations, delays, or medical emergencies.LGBT+ and Women Travelers: As in any foreign country, LGBT+ and women travelers are advised to exercise caution and remain aware of local customs and laws. The UK government has provided specific advice for those traveling alone or in vulnerable situations, emphasizing the need for vigilance.General Security Risks: The UK’s advisory mentions the potential for general disruptions in travel, from transportation delays to possible terrorist threats. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed through the official UK government website and remain alert to changes in the security landscape.Italy’s Travel Advisory for Poland
Italy has joined the ranks of the UK and Germany in issuing a comprehensive travel advisory for Poland, focusing on the nation’s temporary border closures, ongoing military tensions, and security risks. The advisory also offers specific information regarding travel documents, border issues, and precautions travelers should take before visiting Poland. Here’s a summary of the key details from Italy’s travel advisory:
Temporary Border Closures: Effective from September 12, 2025, all border crossings between Poland and Belarus will be closed due to heightened security concerns. Additionally, other non-EU border crossings may also face temporary closures or traffic suspensions. Travelers planning to transit through Poland are advised to monitor official updates for the latest information on border openings and closures.Travel Documentation: Italy’s advisory stresses that travelers must have valid passports or identity cards when entering Poland. If travelers plan to stay in Poland for more than 90 days, they must register with the Voivode’s Office (Polish Prefectural Office), verifying that their documents remain valid for the full duration of their stay.Increased Scrutiny for Vehicles: The advisory warns travelers that vehicles registered in the Russian Federation are no longer permitted to cross the border into Poland. Strict regulations are in place regarding the import of goods, vehicles, and other items, with additional checks on personal items and documents.Risk of Terrorism and Crime: Italy has raised concerns over the potential for terrorist incidents, urging travelers to remain vigilant when visiting tourist sites, airports, and public transport hubs. Petty crime, including pickpocketing and theft, is prevalent in crowded areas, and travelers are advised to keep a close eye on their belongings at all times.Scams and Fraud: Italy warns travelers about the increasing prevalence of scams targeting tourists. Common schemes include fake breakdowns, road accidents, and financial requests for assistance. Visitors are advised to exercise caution, especially in busy areas and nightclubs.Vaccination Requirements for Pets: Italy’s advisory includes important information for pet owners. All pets traveling to Poland must have a valid rabies vaccination and be microchipped or tattooed for identification. Cats and dogs must also have passports for travel into Poland.General Safety Tips for Travelers to Poland in 2025
Given the ongoing security concerns and travel disruptions in Poland, travelers are advised to take the following precautions when planning their trips:
Stay Informed: Regularly check the latest travel advisories issued by your home country and stay updated on any changes to security conditions in Poland.Travel Insurance: Ensure that your travel insurance covers potential risks such as cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, and disruptions related to border closures or military tensions.Avoid High-Risk Areas: Travel away from the border regions with Belarus and Ukraine to reduce exposure to potential risks. Remain flexible in your plans, as some areas may be subject to temporary closures or military activity.Keep Documents Secure: Always carry your passport, identity card, and other important documents with you. It’s also recommended to keep photocopies or digital copies of these documents in case of theft or loss.Monitor Local News: Pay attention to local news and official government updates regarding security threats, transportation disruptions, and other potential hazards.Precautionary Measures: Exercise caution in busy areas like airports, tourist sites, and on public transport. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be wary of potential scams, such as fake traffic accidents or financial assistance requests.
Germany has joined with the United Kingdom and Italy in formally advising against non-essential travel to Poland in 2025, citing extensive border disruptions and a marked escalation in security risk, encompassing heightened military operations and intensified threats of terrorism and organized crime along the Belarus and Ukraine frontiers.
Continuing geopolitical strains in Eastern Europe—especially the fluid circumstances along Poland’s eastern boundaries with Belarus and Ukraine—have necessitated these travel notices. As military manoeuvres, intermittent border closures, and associated security hazards develop, prospective visitors are encouraged to exercise vigilance, access real-time information, and heed official recommendations. By adhering to these directives and implementing proportionate preventive measures, travelers may mitigate the risks outlined in the advisories and arrive at prudent travel determinations regarding Poland for the remainder of 2025.
