Poland's border controls: Impact on travelers from Germany

Poland introduced temporary border controls on its border with Germany on July 7, 2025. The measure is a direct response to the German border controls in place since October 2023, which are primarily aimed at stopping irregular migration and combating smuggling networks.

The Polish government announced that the controls are specifically aimed at smugglers and illegal entries. Regular travelers need not fear any restrictions. The goal is to increase security at the border and improve cooperation with the German authorities.

The controls are initially limited to August 5, 2025, although the Polish government has signaled that it will end the measure if Germany lifts its own border controls.

Controls are carried out at a total of 52 border crossings with Germany and 13 crossings with Lithuania.

Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Ahlbeck: Polish border guards carry out checks at the border crossing on the Polish side.

Source: Stefan Sauer

Important border crossings with controls include Frankfurt (Oder) / Słubice and the Görlitz city bridge. Border controls could be extended if the situation at the borders remains tense. Controls are also being conducted at the Swiecko motorway crossing on the A12 and at other busy crossings such as Krajnik Dolny and Linken.

The Polish authorities carry out random checks, focusing primarily on buses, minibuses and cars with multiple passengers or tinted windows.

Trucks are generally exempt so as not to disrupt the flow of goods. Travelers and commuters between Germany and Poland are particularly affected, but pedestrians and cyclists may also be subject to checks.

According to the Polish Ministry of the Interior, the controls have so far been carried out without major incidents and traffic is flowing largely smoothly.

Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Ahlbeck: Polish border guards carry out checks at a total of 52 border crossings with Germany and 13 crossings with Lithuania.

Source: Stefan Sauer

However, waiting times may occur, particularly at busy border crossings.

Business associations and politicians warn of possible mega-traffic jams if controls are expanded or tightened.

Travellers should therefore expect random checks and monitor the current traffic situation at border crossings in order to choose alternative routes if necessary.

The Polish government considers the introduction of border controls as an indispensable response to the German measures and the rejection of asylum seekers.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk declared that Poland's patience had run out. The border controls were also motivated by domestic politics, to demonstrate its ability to act and counter pressure from the opposition.

Controls are also being carried out at the border with Lithuania to increase security at all of Poland's external borders.

The Federal Foreign Office is currently urging a comprehensive photography ban on military and strategically important facilities and sites in Poland. Violations may result in confiscation of equipment and fines. This security advice goes beyond border controls and is relevant for travelers to Poland.

Persons caught attempting to enter the country illegally may be turned back. Smugglers will be arrested, interrogated, and prosecuted.

Poland has temporarily introduced controls at the German-Polish border.

Source: Stefan Sauer

Polish authorities are already reporting initial successful operations against smuggling networks. These measures are intended to curb illegal migration and strengthen border security.

To enter Poland, German drivers require a valid identity card or passport, an EU driver's license, and the vehicle registration certificate Part I. Proof of insurance is covered by the license plate number; however, the Green Card is recommended to facilitate claims processing abroad.

Poland requires that you carry a high-visibility vest, warning triangle, and first-aid kit in your vehicle. However, the requirement to carry a fire extinguisher in the country generally does not apply to vehicles registered abroad. Carrying one is still recommended to avoid potential problems during inspections.