Visa Information and Entry Requirements

The Cochrane Colloquium will take place in Kraków, Poland. To help you plan your travel, please review the following visa and entry requirements before registering.

Do I need a visa?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your stay.

Poland is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and several other countries may enter Poland without a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).

If you are unsure whether you require a visa, please consult:

  • The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or
  • Your nearest Polish embassy or consulate

Applying for a visa

If you require a visa, we strongly recommend that you begin your application as early as possible, as processing times vary by country.

For a Schengen short-stay visa, applicants are typically required to provide:

  • A valid passport (with at least six months’ validity remaining)
  • A completed visa application form
  • Proof of registration for the Cochrane Colloquium (an official invitation letter can be provided upon request)
  • Proof of accommodation in Kraków (e.g. hotel booking)
  • Evidence of sufficient financial means for the duration of your stay
  • Travel insurance valid for the Schengen Area

Visa Invitation letters

If you require a visa invitation letter to support your visa application, you may request this during the registration process. You will be asked to provide the following information:

  • Given name(s) as shown on your passport
  • Family name as shown on your passport
  • Date of birth
  • Passport number
  • Nationality
  • Country of passport issue
  • Passport issue date
  • Passport expiry date

Additional information

For detailed and up-to-date guidance, please refer to the Schengen visa information portal or contact your nearest Polish embassy or consulate.

Please note that the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is being implemented in late 2026. Visa-exempt travellers from the UK and other non-EU / non-Schengen countries are required to obtain ETIAS authorisation before travelling to Poland or any other Schengen Member State.

If you have any questions about visas or invitation letters, please contact the Colloquium team at colloquium@cochrane.org. 
We look forward to welcoming you to Kraków for the Cochrane Colloquium.