Guidance

Key information for supporting British detainees in Poland

Updated 6 June 2025

Financial matters

Sending money to someone in a Polish prison

Family or friends can send money to someone in a Polish prison via bank transfer. Each prison has its own account details, and these are usually listed on the official website of the prison. If the website is only in Polish, you may need assistance translating or you can contact the prison administration directly by phone or in writing to request the correct information.

When sending money from outside of Poland (for example, from the UK), you will need:

• IBAN (International Bank Account Number) of the prison account
• SWIFT/BIC code of the bank
• the prisoner’s full name and identification number (if known)
• the name of the prison they are located in
• a note in the reference field clearly stating the purpose of the transfer (for example, “funds for [Full Name], inmate ID, [Prison Name]”)
• it may be required to provide prisoner’s father’s name on the envelope

Delayed money transfers

International transfers can take a few business days to process. If the money hasn’t reached your loved one after a week, we recommend contacting the prison administration or financial department. Ensure all details on your transfer were correct to avoid delays.

Money transfer when moving prisons

In Poland, when a prisoner is moved to a different correctional facility, any funds held in their prison account are usually transferred with them. However, there may be short delays in processing. You can check with the new prison to confirm that the funds have been received.

Sending items

Sending clothes or other items

The rules about sending or bringing items such as clothing vary from prison to prison. In most cases:

• the detainee must request permission (“talon”) to receive items
• the list of items on the talon needs to match what is being delivered to prison
• items are usually delivered during visits or sent by post
• only approved items will be accepted (for example, season-appropriate clothes, books, personal hygiene items)
• the person delivering items in person must bring valid ID
• some prisons may also require prior notification or a permit for certain packages. It is best to contact the prison directly for specific guidance

Prison visits

Visiting arrangements

Visits are allowed in Polish prisons but are subject to specific regulations. Visitors typically need to:

• book an appointment in advance.
• bring an official ID (passport or national ID card).
• children are allowed to visit but must be accompanied by an adult.
• the number of visits per month may vary based on prisoner status and behaviour.
• contact the prison or visit its official website for location-specific visiting hours and procedures

Prison conditions

Time outside cells

In Poland, time out of the cell depends on the prisoner’s regime:

• pre-trial detainees may have limited time outside their cell.
• convicted prisoners are typically entitled to at least 1 hour per day of outdoor time.
• additional activities (e.g., work, education, religious services) can increase time spent outside the cell.
• behaviour, security classification, and space availability also affect the daily routine.

Some prisoners may be under special supervision or restrictions, which reduces their time outside the cell.

Clothing and personal items

Upon arrival, prisoners are provided with basic clothing. They are also allowed to wear their own clothes, subject to approval. If your loved one needs additional clothing, they can request to receive items from family or friends (with prior approval).

If they haven’t received any clothing, it may be due to missed visiting hours, lack of funds, or pending approval. They should speak with their case officer or social worker for assistance.

Belongings while in prison

Their belongings are usually stored securely by the prison. They will be returned upon release. In some cases, family can collect non-essential items with written permission.

Restrictions

In Poland, detainees may be placed under restrictions (“środki zapobiegawcze”), especially during pre-trial detention. These restrictions may include:

• limited phone or visit access
• no correspondence with certain individuals
• special cell conditions (for example, monitored isolation) These measures are imposed by a prosecutor or judge and are not typically negotiable. Any concerns should be discussed with your loved one’s legal representative

Solitary confinement

Solitary confinement (“izolacja”) is used either as a disciplinary measure or for safety reasons. While in solitary, prisoners:

• are kept apart from others
• may be allowed limited time outdoors
• often have restricted access to visits, calls, or activities

Solitary confinement is regulated by law and cannot be extended indefinitely without justification. If it continues beyond 14 days, it may be subject to review

Legal considerations

Transfer to UK to serve sentence

Under the Council of Europe Transfer of Sentenced Persons Convention, prisoners can apply to serve their sentence in their home country. Requirements typically include:

• UK citizenship or strong ties to the UK
• no ongoing legal proceedings
• at least 6 months of sentence remaining
• no outstanding fines or unresolved civil penalties Applications are reviewed by both Polish and UK authorities. Approval is not guaranteed. For more information, contact the Ministry of Justice in Poland or the British Embassy in Warsaw

Criminal records

Criminal convictions in Poland result in a criminal record. These may be shared with UK authorities in serious cases, especially involving drugs, violence, or sexual offences. It is possible that such records may appear on a UK DBS check depending on the nature of crime and cooperation between Polish and UK authorities.