On February 4, 2019, the U.S. Department of State announced the fiscal year 2018 worldwide B visa refusal rates for individual countries. The refusal rate for Polish nationals was reported at 3.99 percent for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018. This marks a notable decrease from the previous year's rate of 5.92 percent. Despite this downward trend, the current rate remains above the three percent threshold required for entry into the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
To be included in the VWP, a country must have a worldwide visa refusal rate in the temporary visitor category of less than three percent for the previous fiscal year. Other requirements include implementing security-related information-sharing agreements, cooperating on law enforcement matters, and successfully completing a Department of Homeland Security-led security evaluation.
Ambassador Mosbacher has expressed her dedication to collaborating with the Polish government and other partners to help Poland meet all VWP requirements. She stated, “I will do everything I can to help Poland enter the Visa Waiver Program while I am the U.S. Ambassador to Poland. Travel between our two countries is extensive, strengthens the bonds of friendship between us, and provides important economic benefits to both the U.S. and Poland.”
The Visa Waiver Program is governed by strict legal criteria set by Congress. The U.S. Embassy continues its efforts with Polish authorities and partners to help Poland fulfill these requirements not only to enhance mutual border security but also to facilitate travel between both nations and streamline the U.S. visa application process.