Costs of Managing a Company in Poland: A Detailed Breakdown

Poland is attracting more and more foreign investors and entrepreneurs due to its strategic location, developed infrastructure, and relatively low operating costs compared to Western European countries. However, before starting a business in Poland, it is important to understand the structure and approximate costs of running a company. There is no single list of operating expenses. Depending on the industry, a company may include different costs in this category.

We present the main operating expenses, indicating approximate prices in Polish złoty (PLN). Please note that the prices provided are indicative and may vary depending on the size of the company, its location, and the nature of its business.

I. Legal and Registration Costs:

• Company registration – from 500 to 2000 PLN (depending on the type of company and the complexity of the procedure). Includes state fees and notary services.
• Legal services – from 1000 to 5000 PLN (or more for complex projects) for consultations on choosing the legal form, drafting founding documents, and registration. Ongoing legal services may cost from 500 to 2000 PLN per month.
• Accounting services (first year) – from 1000 to 3000 PLN for initial data entry and accounting system setup.

II. Office Expenses:

• Office rent – from 500 to 5000 PLN per month (varies depending on the size of the office and location – Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław are significantly more expensive than smaller cities). In larger cities, coworking space rental may be more cost-effective (from 300 to 1000 PLN per month per workstation).
• Utilities (electricity, heating, water) – from 300 to 1000 PLN per month depending on the size of the office.
• Internet and communication – from 100 to 300 PLN per month.
• Office equipment and supplies – from 500 to 2000 PLN per month (depending on the company’s needs).

III. Taxes and Fees:

• Corporate income tax – the rate depends on the legal form and the amount of profit (preferential rates may apply to small and medium-sized enterprises). Consultation with a tax advisor is necessary for accurate calculation.
• Value-added tax (VAT) – 23% on turnover (for most goods and services). Preferential rates apply to certain goods and services.
• Payroll taxes – include social security contributions (ZUS) for both the employer and the employee. The percentage rate depends on the salary and can constitute a significant part of personnel costs.
• Other taxes and fees – may include local taxes, licensing fees, and permits (depending on the type of business).

IV. Salaries and Personnel:

• Salaries – vary significantly depending on the position, qualifications, and experience. The average salary in Poland is lower than in Western European countries.
• Social security contributions (ZUS) – a significant cost for the employer, constituting a substantial part of the employee’s salary.
• Training and development – additional costs for employee upskilling.

V. Marketing and Advertising:

• Online marketing – from 500 to 5000 PLN per month (depending on the channels used and the strategy).
• Offline marketing – depends on the chosen channels (print advertising, outdoor advertising, participation in trade shows) and can range from a few hundred to thousands of PLN per month.

VI. Other Expenses:

• Banking services – from 50 to 200 PLN per month.
• Insurance – from 100 to 500 PLN per month (depending on the type of insurance).
• Other expenses – unforeseen costs and minor expenses.

Total Costs

It is difficult to determine the total cost of running a business in Poland, as it largely depends on the scale of the company, its specifics, and location. For a small company with one or two employees, monthly costs may range from 3000 to 7000 PLN, while for larger companies, they can be significantly higher.

IMPORTANT! Before starting a business in Poland, it is recommended to consult with financial and legal advisors to obtain accurate information and develop an individual financial plan. The prices listed above are only indicative and may vary significantly depending on specific circumstances.

If you have any further questions, please write to us at office@progressholding.pl