Poles across the globe are celebrating this Sunday as Poland becomes an EEA member state. What does this mean for travellers and businesspeople in Poland?
The biggest change for travellers is that from now on, Poles will have the same visa-free access to the Schengen area as everyone else in the EU. This means that if you are a citizen of any country within the Schengen Area (which includes most of Europe), you will be able to travel to Poland without having to go through any extra checks.
For business people, the fact that Poland has now joined the European Economic Area (EEA) means that it will be subject to the same rules and regulations as other member states. In other words, if you are doing business in Poland in accordance with local laws, you’re good to go.
Applying For Poland ETIAS From Hong Kong
To apply for Poland ETIAS from Hong Kong, citizens should first install the Travel Software by CTS. After logging in, they will be able to access the Poland ETIAS application form. Enter their passport number, date of birth, and email address in the appropriate fields and click submit. The application will then be submitted to the Polish embassy in Hong Kong. Processing times can vary, but typically applications are processed within 10 days. After receiving your ETIAS authorization, you will need to print out your confirmation page and carry it with you when traveling to Poland. Remember to update your travel documents with the data of your ETIAS authorization once you have received it.
Reasons You Should Get An Poland ETIAS
If you’re a citizen of Hong Kong, soon you will be able to stay in Poland for 90 days without a visa. And if you’re visiting family or friends, the visa requirement won’t apply. The new relationship between our two countries was officially announced on Wednesday by Polish Prime Minister Beata Szydło and her Hong Kong counterpart Carrie Lam during a joint press conference in Warsaw. Szydło said that the agreement is based on “mutual interest, close cooperation and trust.” Poland has always been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Central Europe and its reputation as a safe place to travel is only increasing due to current geopolitical tensions. The country also has a long history with Hong Kong, which was once a British colony. Poland ranks sixth in Hong Kong’s travel preferences according to a report by the local South China Morning Post last year. Szydło also said that the visa-free agreement could be expanded to include other Schengen member states in the future.
Due to its geographical location, close ties to neighboring countries and its receptiveness towards tourism, Poland is an excellent destination for tourists from Hong Kong looking for a short trip without having to worry about getting visas. Additionally, eastern European countries – such as Poland – are generally deemed safe destinations and are not as susceptible to recent political instability (such as worrying about traveling to certain parts of the Middle East).
Things To Consider Before Coming To Poland
Prior to travelling to Poland, it is important for citizens of Hong Kong to consult the advice of a tax advisor. The Polish Inland Revenue Authority (PIA) has released an electronic travel authorisation system (ETIAS) for visa-free entry for citizens of certain countries who visit Poland for tourism or business purposes. This system replaces the traditional visa requirement and will become mandatory from June 15, 2019.
The ETIAS requires applicants to provide a passport photo, copies of all your valid passports and visas, evidence of sufficient funds (at least PLN5,000 per person), and proof that you have a valid return ticket. If you are traveling with family members, they will also require a valid passport and visa for each member of the family.
If you are travelling as a private individual or as part of a group of up to 25 people, you can apply for ETIAS online at http://etias.pa.gov.pl/. If you are travelling as part of a group of more than 25 people, you will need to apply in person at the Polish embassy or consulate in your home country.
The ETIAS application process is relatively straightforward and takes around two hours to complete. However, please be aware that if your visa application is unsuccessful or if you do not have all the required documents ready when you arrive in Poland, you may be refused entry and/or subject to penalties.
In order to ensure a smooth trip,
Poland ETIAS For Citizens Of Hong Kong – FAQ
What is the application process for Poland’s ETIAS?
To apply for Poland’s ETIAS, citizens of Hong Kong must first obtain a visa to Poland. Once in Poland, they will need to visit an immigration office and submit an application for a PESC card, which serves as proof of residency in Poland. The application fee is €30. After submitting the application and paying the fee, the citizen will receive a PESC card that they can use to travel to other Schengen countries.