Airport Transit Visa (Type A) – Poland
An Airport Transit Visa (ATV) is required for citizens of certain countries who need to transit through Polish airports. This visa allows you to stay in the international transit area of the airport without entering Poland.
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What is an Airport Transit Visa?
An Airport Transit Visa (ATV) is a Type A Schengen visa that allows you to transit through the international transit area of Polish airports without entering Poland. This visa is specifically for passengers who need to change flights in Poland while traveling to their final destination.
The ATV is valid only for the international transit area of the airport and does not allow you to enter Poland or any other Schengen country. It's typically valid for a single transit or multiple transits within a specific period.
If you need to leave the airport during your layover or if your final destination is within the Schengen area, you will need a regular Schengen visa (Type C) instead of an airport transit visa.
Airport transit visa requirements for Poland
Who Needs an Airport Transit Visa?
Schengen Countries & Schengen Visa
The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries. These include the EU member states except Ireland and Cyprus and the non-EU countries Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Iceland. Citizens of these states and foreign nationals with a valid residence permit for one of these countries enjoy freedom of travel within the Schengen area — border controls only occur at external borders.
The issuance of visas for the Schengen countries is regulated uniformly – depending on the purpose of the trip and the length of the stay, the following visa categories may apply:
Countries Requiring Airport Transit Visa
According to the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, citizens of the following countries need an Airport Transit Visa when transiting through Polish airports:
Important Note
This list may change. Always check with the Polish consulate or embassy in your country for the most current requirements before traveling. For official information, visit the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Exemptions from ATV Requirement
Even if you're from a country that normally requires an Airport Transit Visa, you may be exempt if you hold certain documents:
Valid Visas
- Valid Schengen visa
- Valid visa for EU/EEA country
- Valid visa for USA, Canada, Japan, or UK
Residence Permits
- Valid residence permit from Schengen country
- Valid residence permit from EU/EEA country
- Valid residence permit from USA, Canada, Japan, or UK
Special Cases
- Diplomatic passport holders
- Flight crew members
- Passengers in direct transit (same aircraft)
Requirements and Documents
Required Documents
Important Requirements
Transit Duration
Maximum 24 hours in most cases, up to 48 hours in exceptional circumstances.
Airport Restrictions
Must remain in international transit area. Cannot enter Poland.
Onward Travel
Must have confirmed onward flight ticket and valid entry documents for final destination.
Visa Application Process
Applying for an airport transit visa is straightforward. You can do so at the Polish embassy, consulate, or the responsible visa application centres in your home country or country of residence. As with other Schengen visa applications, a personal appointment is usually required, but the process is designed to be as smooth as possible.
It typically takes 5-15 days for the visa to be issued. Nevertheless, we recommend allowing a little more time and calculating with a processing time of 30 days, as for a Schengen entry visa.
The Polish missions accept visa applications up to 6 months before the planned trip. Adults pay a processing fee of €80. A reduced visa fee of €40 applies for children between 6 and 12. Children under the age of 6 receive their transit visa for free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave the airport with an Airport Transit Visa?▼
No, an Airport Transit Visa only allows you to stay in the international transit area of the airport. You cannot enter Poland or leave the airport.
How long can I stay in the airport with an ATV?▼
Generally up to 24 hours, though in exceptional circumstances it may be extended to 48 hours. The exact duration depends on your flight connections.
Do I need an ATV if I have a US visa?▼
If you have a valid US visa or residence permit, you are generally exempt from the Airport Transit Visa requirement, even if you're from a country that normally requires one.
Can I get an ATV at the airport?▼
No, Airport Transit Visas cannot be obtained at the airport. You must apply in advance at a Polish consulate or visa application center.
What if my connecting flight is delayed?▼
If your delay is due to circumstances beyond your control and you exceed the permitted transit time, contact airport authorities immediately. They may provide assistance or temporary accommodation.
Need Help with Your Airport Transit Visa?
Check with the Polish consulate in your country for specific requirements and current processing times. Apply well in advance of your travel date.