Smartphone ban to be introduced in Polish schools: only a few exceptions envisioned

On September 1, 2026, a nationwide ban on the use of mobile phones and other electronic devices by primary school pupils in Poland comes into force. The new rules will apply in both public and private educational institutions.

The respective changes are provided for by amendments to the Polish education law passed by the parliament in July and published in the official gazette in early August.

Pupils will not be allowed to use smartphones not only during lessons, but also during breaks and other educational and upbringing activities. The restriction also extends to electronic devices with which one can communicate at a distance, record sound or video.

The ban will also cover part of educational activities conducted by the school outside its premises, such as physical education lessons at external sports facilities. For school excursions, the procedure for using phones will be determined by separate rules of the educational institution.

When a smartphone can still be used

The law provides for several exceptions. A teacher may allow a device to be used if it is necessary for learning or assessment. The phone may also be used for urgent communication with parents.

A separate exception is provided for children who need a smartphone or special application for health reasons, in particular for monitoring medical indicators. In addition, devices may be used in case of a direct threat to health or life.

Schools may organize special places for storing smartphones. Such a decision will have to be agreed by the director with the pedagogical and parent councils, taking into account the position of the student government. The safety of devices and protection of pupils' privacy must be ensured.

Bringing a phone to school is not prohibited

The new rules do not mean a complete ban on having a smartphone with you - the law limits its use while a pupil is at school and during the educational process.

For secondary schools, such as lyceums and technical schools, a single nationwide ban is not being introduced. Instead, each such institution must specify in its statute the conditions for using electronic devices or establish its own ban.

The new rules also apply to preschools and preschool groups at primary schools.

Sources: Dziennik Ustaw, Senate of Poland, Rzeczpospolita