United States Visa RequirementsFor Poland passport holders
Polish passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Poland passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Poland to United States: What You Need to Know
Poland joined the US Visa Waiver Program in November 2019, ending a long-standing asymmetry that had been a major bilateral irritant. Poland and the US have exceptionally close security ties: Poland hosts thousands of US troops and is one of the most enthusiastic NATO members. The Polish-American diaspora is one of the largest in the US, with over 9 million Americans of Polish descent, particularly in Chicago (known as one of the largest Polish cities outside Poland), New York, Detroit, and Buffalo. LOT Polish Airlines operates direct flights from Warsaw (WAW) to several US cities. Polish nationals with a non-VWP second passport must use their Polish passport for ESTA.
How to Get There
LOT Polish Airlines flies nonstop from Warsaw (WAW) to New York (JFK/EWR), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), and Miami (MIA). This makes the US especially accessible for Polish travelers. Lufthansa, KLM, and British Airways also offer connections via Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and London.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is a firm social expectation in the US: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, a few dollars for taxis and hotel housekeeping. This is similar to Polish restaurant tipping norms (where 10-15% is customary), though US rates are somewhat higher. Exchange Polish Zloty (PLN) to USD at Warsaw airport or use ATMs in the US.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. Polish citizens visiting family in Chicago, New York, or other cities with large Polish communities should carry an invitation letter and accommodation details. The 90-day limit is firm and cannot be extended on VWP. Do not overstay: the consequences include deportation and loss of future VWP access. US customs officers may ask about your purpose of visit; answer clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Polish citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Poland joined the US Visa Waiver Program in November 2019. Polish passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must obtain an ESTA authorization before travel.
How do Polish citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Complete the online form, pay $21, and receive authorization, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
What nonstop flights operate from Poland to the United States?
LOT Polish Airlines flies nonstop from Warsaw (WAW) to New York (JFK/EWR), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), and Miami (MIA). This makes the US especially accessible for Polish travelers.
How long can Polish citizens stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. Extensions are not available under VWP status.
Can Polish citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA covers tourism, transit, and business meetings only. Paid work requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final entry decision at the port of entry.
What happens if a Polish citizen overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying is a serious violation. Consequences include deportation, permanent VWP ineligibility, and difficulties obtaining future US visas.
Can Polish citizens visiting family in Chicago use ESTA?
Yes. Visiting family or friends is permitted under ESTA. The 90-day limit still applies. Bring an invitation letter and contact details if visiting relatives.