Overview
Poland is a member of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), so Polish nationals holding a valid ESTA can travel to the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. The U.S. Embassy in Warsaw handles other visa categories for Polish residents: student (F-1), exchange (J-1), work (H, L, O), fiancé (K), and all immigrant visa categories including family reunification. There is also a Consulate General in Krakow. The embassy provides consular services to the large U.S. citizen community in Poland, including dual nationals and American expats. The embassy is located at ul. Piękna 12, central Warsaw.
Visa Services
Polish nationals with a valid ESTA do not need a visa for tourism or business visits to the US (up to 90 days). The embassy processes nonimmigrant visas for categories outside the VWP — F-1 student, J-1 exchange, H and L work visas, O-1 extraordinary ability, K fiancé — and all immigrant visa categories (family preference, employment-based). Appointments must be booked online via the USTravelDocs portal. The Consulate General in Krakow serves applicants in southern Poland.
Consular Services
The ACS unit provides passport renewals, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, notarial services, and emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Poland. Poland has a substantial American expat community, including dual citizens and business professionals.
Trade & Export Support
The U.S. Commercial Service promotes U.S. exports to Poland's large and fast-growing economy — one of the most dynamic in Central Europe. Key sectors include energy (civil nuclear, LNG), information technology, healthcare technology, and infrastructure. Poland is a significant market for U.S. companies in the region.
Investment Opportunities
Poland offers investment opportunities in energy transition, technology and IT services, manufacturing, real estate, and infrastructure. Through SelectUSA, the embassy promotes Polish investment into the United States. Poland's growing economy and EU single market access make it a compelling destination for international investors.
Business Support
The embassy's Economic Section supports U.S. companies operating in or entering the Polish market, advising on investment climate, trade policy, and regulatory issues. Poland's EU membership, skilled workforce, and central location in Europe make it an important hub for U.S. businesses with European operations.
Cultural & Educational Programs
The Public Affairs section manages the Polish-U.S. Fulbright Commission — one of the largest and most active in Europe — along with a wide range of educational and cultural exchange programmes. Poland's rich cultural heritage — Kraków's Old Town, Wieliczka Salt Mine, Wrocław, Gdańsk, and the Białowieża Forest (UNESCO World Heritage sites) — draws significant American and international tourism.
Appointment Information
All visa interview and ACS appointments must be booked online via the USTravelDocs portal at ustraveldocs.com. Walk-in services are not available. The embassy is at ul. Piękna 12, Warsaw; the Consulate General is in Kraków — check pl.usembassy.gov to determine the correct location for your application.
Special Notes
The embassy is located in central Warsaw at ul. Piękna 12, 00-540. Visitors are subject to security screening; electronic devices are not permitted inside. U.S. citizens travelling to Poland should review the current U.S. State Department travel advisory before visiting.