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Traveling by ground transport from Belarus to the EU via Poland is currently difficult, as Polish authorities are reportedly not allowing entry. Transit via Lithuania is a more viable option. Border crossings can be lengthy, with potential delays of up to 24 hours or more, depending on the specific route and day. It is advisable to be prepared for extended travel times (4-5 days are not uncommon for such journeys) or to consider alternative travel methods like flying.

As of April 1, 2026, Poland does not recognize non-biometric (5-year) passports issued by Russia for entry. Additionally, tourism entry via external EU borders is restricted for Russian passport holders. If a visa contains '-PL' in the exception list, entry into Poland is prohibited. Entering Poland with a visa issued for a different country remains a potential legal risk that may lead to border refusal, fines (20-200 EUR), or long-term Schengen bans.

Travelers report minimal vehicle stops for document or visa checks when transiting through Poland, Czech Republic, Slovenia, and Croatia, regardless of non-EU vehicle registration (e.g., Belarus). Border controls are irregular, and police focus is usually on specific security profiling rather than routine stops for all private vehicles.

Traveling from Chisinau to Transnistria with Russian Federation passports is generally unproblematic. Border crossings, particularly in Dubasari and Bender, are usually quick, taking only a few minutes. While there might be a short queue of vehicles in Bender, the process is efficient. If you have a Russian passport, you may not even need to fill out a migration card. Holders of a Moldovan ID or passport generally experience a smooth process as well.

Entry into Poland from a non-Schengen country is not permitted directly. Travelers must first enter another Schengen country (e.g., Rome) before proceeding to Poland.