Staying safe in Poland
Moving to Poland means you’ll need to get to grip with the local culture and way of doing things. But above all, you’ll need to understand the country’s legal system. Knowing the basics of Polish law and regulations is not just about integrating into the country, but also about avoiding becoming either a victim or an offender – situations that might be very different from what you’ve experienced in other countries.
We’ve put together a few tips to help you stay safe in Poland while also helping you to relax and potentially save some money:
Be respectful of public spaces: Show respect for public spaces and property. Please don’t litter, graffiti or vandalise property, as this could result in fines or legal action.
Be mindful of your alcohol consumption: It’s important to be aware that Poland has strict regulations regarding alcohol consumption in public spaces. Just to be on the safe side, avoid carrying open alcohol containers in areas where it’s prohibited.
Proper ID: If you’re a foreign national, you’ll need to have your passport or other official documents ready to show to the authorities if they ask to see them.
Traffic rules: If you’re planning on driving, it’s a good idea to get to know the Polish traffic laws. Make sure you stick to the speed limits, wear your seat belts and that your vehicle is up to all the necessary standards so you don’t get any fines or penalties.
Cultural sensitivity: Show respect for local culture by dressing appropriately, respecting religious sites and following local customs. If you act in an offensive way or wear inappropriate clothing, you could attract unwanted attention or even face legal consequences.
Keep an eye out for scams: Make sure you protect yourself from scams and fraudulent activities, both in person and online. Getting involved in any kind of fraudulent activity, whether knowingly or unknowingly, can have legal consequences.
Photography restrictions: Keep an eye on the photography restrictions, especially around sensitive locations such as government buildings, military installations, and certain public spaces. Taking photos in prohibited areas could lead to legal action.
Respect privacy: Get permission before taking photos or videos of individuals, especially in private settings. Violating someone’s privacy can result in legal complaints.
Avoid drugs: It’s best to street clear of drugs. They’re illegal in Poland and there are some pretty serious consequences for getting involved with them.