Up to PLN 10,000 fine for photographing a border checkpoint: what Ukrainians need to know about the new rules in Poland

Poland is introducing new fines for photographing border facilities and violations of foreigner employment regulations. Find out how to avoid punishment, what will change for Ukrainians, and how to prepare for your trip without any unnecessary problems

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Poland is preparing to tighten rules on photographing border infrastructure and the employment of foreigners. In this article, with reference to inPoland, we explain what violations are now punishable by significant fines and how to avoid problems when crossing the border.

Ban on photographing border facilities: what will change

The Polish Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration (MIAD) has prepared draft amendments to the regulation on minor offenses, which expands the powers of Border Guard officers.

As a result, border guards will have the right to impose fines for unauthorized photography or video recording of Border Guard infrastructure, including border crossing points, without special permission.

This innovation is related to the entry into force of a resolution of the Ministry of National Defense, which prohibits the photographing of critical infrastructure — objects of special importance for the security or defense of the state.

What is the penalty for violation?

According to the Homeland Defense Act, persons who photograph designated objects or people without permission may be held administratively liable. Penalties include arrest or a fine, and under the proposed changes, border guards will be able to impose financial penalties directly at the site of the violation.

It is important that such objects are clearly marked with a sign saying “No photography.” Violation of this requirement can cost up to PLN 10,000.

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Why are new sanctions being introduced?

The explanatory note to the draft states that the aim of the new rules is to enable border guards to respond quickly to violations without the need to involve other services. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration, this will increase the effectiveness of border protection and critical infrastructure.

New fines for employers and foreign workers

The changes do not only concern photography. The draft also amends the Act on the conditions for the admissibility of employment of foreigners in Poland.

Border guards will have the right to impose fines of up to PLN 10,000 for violations of the rules of official employment of foreign citizens. This applies to both employers and employees working without proper documentation.

Rules for entering Poland for Ukrainians

For Ukrainian travelers, these changes mean that they need to be especially careful when staying in the border area. Before taking photos, make sure that there are no prohibition signs on the site and refrain from taking photos if in doubt. In addition, those planning to work in Poland need to take care of the proper documentation in advance to avoid the risk of receiving a significant fine. Visit Ukraine lawyers can always help with official employment in EU countries and the preparation of the necessary documents.

When crossing the border, it is also important to have all the necessary documents:

● a valid biometric passport or an old-style passport + visa (how long your passport must be valid for travel abroad – read more at the link);

● insurance (medical or travel);

● confirmation of the purpose of entry and sufficient financial means.

If you plan to travel by car, you must also have:

● vehicle registration certificate;

● driver's license;

● international car insurance “Green Card”.

You can quickly and easily get travel and medical insurance, as well as a Green Card for your car, online through the Visit Ukraine service. Don't put it off — get all your documents ready ahead of time so your trip goes smoothly!

We remind you! The summer season has increased queues at the border with Poland at checkpoints in Lviv region. Read about which routes are the busiest, how to avoid delays, and what will help you plan a comfortable trip in our previous article.

Photo: Iryna Mochulska, Suspilne

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