Poland Pushes EU to Reconsider Georgia’s Visa-Free Access

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has confirmed that his government is lobbying other EU member states to suspend or restrict visa-free travel for Georgian citizens, citing rising concerns over irregular migration and violations of European democratic standards.

Speaking to reporters, Tusk emphasized that his administration is actively working to build a qualified majority within the EU to introduce stricter travel regulations for Georgia. He stated that, while many Georgians support European values, the current situation demands swift and decisive action.

“We are building the necessary majority to limit or suspend visa-free travel with Georgia, among others. Yes, this is also my intention,” said Tusk. “I fully acknowledge that a third of Georgians are people who genuinely share our values, but we also know what the problem is.”

Tusk clarified that Georgia is not being targeted in isolation and that the move is part of a broader effort to re-evaluate visa-free travel agreements with non-EU countries that pose risks to public order or fail to meet democratic standards.

“It is not just about Georgia. I apologise to any Georgians who may feel offended, but I am a strong advocate of restricting visa-free travel from countries where authoritarian governance is rising or from which migration presents a threat to security and law and order in Poland or across Europe.”

Visa-Free Access Already Suspended for Georgian Diplomats

While Georgian citizens holding regular passports continue to benefit from visa-free travel to the Schengen Area, the Council of the European Union has already taken steps to limit access for certain groups. In early 2025, the EU partially suspended its visa facilitation agreement with Georgia, specifically targeting diplomatic and official passport holders.

As a result, Georgian diplomats are now required to apply for a Schengen visa, follow standard processing times, and pay the full visa fee—restrictions that were previously waived under the agreement.

Several EU countries, including Poland, Germany, France, Lithuania, and Estonia, have adopted the Council’s decision and now enforce visa requirements for Georgian diplomatic personnel.