Travel Alert Status
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
Safety and Security
The terrorism threat in Poland is low, however, like other countries in the Schengen zone, Poland's open borders with its neighbors allow for the possibility of terrorist groups to enter/exit the country undetected. The latest U.S. Department of State Worldwide Caution should be reviewed as a guide on international and transnational terrorism operations against U.S. targets.
Demonstrations are a regular occurrence of the Polish political scene but are, for the most part, orderly and peaceful. Demonstrations regularly occur in Warsaw and are concentrated around Polish government offices, many of which are in close proximity to the U.S. Embassy. During the winter, these activities taper off, but spring and summer witness a large number of such events. Demonstrators are typically vocal but law-abiding, and events involving 15 or more people require permits in advance from the government. The average size of a demonstration in Warsaw last year was several hundred people and occurred, on average, twice monthly. You should be vigilant in protecting your security, bearing in mind that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful may turn violent. Avoid street demonstrations whenever possible.
Soccer matches in Poland are often marred by confrontations between opposing fans. Such confrontations occasionally turn violent, and U.S. citizens should exercise caution when attending soccer matches or traveling near sporting venues during events. U.S. citizens should also be aware of the potential for an increase in traffic and crowds after sporting events. As always, we urge you to avoid areas where you see heavy police presence or crowds assembling, to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any large public gatherings, and to stay away from demonstrations.