Poland launches 2026 Tourist Voucher scheme for seniors, large families and Podkarpackie region

The Polish Ministry of Sport and Tourism is rolling out a nationwide Tourist Voucher programme for 2026, allocating 6 million zł. Eligible participants – people aged 60 plus and holders of the Large Family Card – receive a one‑time electronic code worth 300 to 600 zł, usable only for hotel stays of at least two nights between September and November 2026. The vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash and are intended for hotels that join the scheme, focusing on eastern and north‑eastern voivodeships that saw a decline in visitors due to the war in Ukraine.

A complementary regional initiative, the Podkarpacki Tourist Voucher, adds a further 3 million zł (1.5 million zł from the ministry and 1.5 million zł from the Podkarpackie provincial government). It offers a 300 zł electronic code, initially targeted at seniors and large‑family cardholders, but the regional co‑funding expands eligibility to all tourists visiting Podkarpackie, aiming to boost off‑season demand in Bieszczady and other attractions.

Both programmes require applicants to log into an online system that verifies eligibility and generates a personal code, after which the traveller reserves and pays for the stay directly with the participating accommodation.