Colombia, Georgia, Venezuela Nationals Lose Visa-Free Work Entry to Poland
Effective August 15 and 22, 2026, nationals of Colombia, Georgia, and Venezuela can no longer enter Poland visa-free for employment or work on a work permit while staying visa-free. Employers must reassess hiring arrangements for affected staff.
Starting August 15, 2026, nationals of Colombia, Georgia and Venezuela will no longer be permitted to enter Poland visa free for the purpose of employment; instead, they will be required to obtain a visa in order to enter Poland for the purposes of work. One week later, on August 22, nationals of these countries will no longer be able to work in Poland on a work permit if they entered and are staying in Poland visa free.
Key Dates
- Those who arrived prior to August 15 will not be affected by this rule.
- Those who started working on the basis of a work permit while staying visa free before August 22, 2026 will not be affected by this rule.
- Additionally, those who have work authorization on another basis other than a work permit (for instance, students and graduates) are not affected by this rule.
This change reflects Poland's broader 2026 strategy to tighten controls over employment-based migration. Affected employers will need to reassess their talent management arrangements for the affected nationals, including arranging for certain existing and future employees to obtain necessary work authorization.
For affected foreigners: If you are a Colombian, Georgian, or Venezuelan national planning to work in Poland or currently working visa-free, you must now obtain a work visa before arrival or switch to a formal work permit if already employed. Employers sponsoring you should act immediately to ensure compliance.
Sources
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