Poland bans movement of people on New Year and extends existing restrictions

At least until 17 January

Poland will be extending the responsibility phase of its 100-day battle plan for the fight against COVID-19 until 17 January, the government announced on Thursday afternoon. On top of this, additional restrictions will also be added in order to curb the spread of COVID-19 while the country is waiting for the start of vaccinations.

No movement of people on New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is regarded by the Polish government as a particularly risky situation, as populous gatherings are expected to increase the risks of virus transmission. That is why they have chosen to introduce restrictions on movement: starting from 31 December at 19:00 until the next morning at 6:00, the movement of people throughout the country will be prohibited.

Furthermore, from 28 December 2020 to 17 January 2021, when the school break ends, the following rules will apply:

• Ski slopes close
• Sports infrastructure is only open for professional players
• People entering the country through organised transport should go into a 10-day quarantine
• Hotels and shopping malls’ operations will be limited.

The existing restrictions, part of the so-called responsibility phase are extended till 17 January. They include:

• Limits on public transport’s occupancy levels
• People under the age of 16 must move between 8:00 and 16:00 from Monday to Friday accompanied by an adult
• Meetings are limited to 5 people
• There is a ban on weddings, communions and parties
• Guests are limited to 5 people
• Gyms, fitness clubs and aquaparks, as well as restaurants, remain closed, operating with takeaway and deliveries only.

The coming days are a test of responsibility for all Poles, the government announcement reads. Let's make waiting for COVID-19 vaccines safe for us and our loved ones. Follow the applicable restrictions - spend the holidays with your household members, do not organize large meetings, also appealed the authorities.