Russian embassy: Poland declares non-biometric passports invalid for travel

Poland will no longer recognise non-biometric Russian passports beginning April 1, 2026, according to a notice issued by the Russian Embassy in Poland.

The decision affects five-year, non-biometric standard foreign passports issued in the Russian Federation.

Polish authorities will consider both entry into the country and stay on its territory using these documents to be unlawful. Russian citizens holding such passports are advised to obtain 10-year biometric passports in advance to avoid travel disruptions.

The embassy noted that information regarding categories of Russian nationals who may still be allowed entry into Poland remains available on its website, in the section detailing restrictions on the entry of Russian citizens and vehicles.

By Tamilla Hasanova