What Documents Are Needed to Open a Bank Account in Poland for a Foreigner?

Table of Contents

Why Might a Foreigner Need a Bank Account in Poland?

Opening a bank account in Poland is a necessary step for many foreigners planning to live, work, or conduct business in the country. An account allows for receiving salaries, paying bills, making online purchases, and much more. However, the process of opening an account may vary depending on your status – whether you are a resident of Poland or not.

A bank account in Poland is needed for:

• Receiving salaries – most Polish employers pay salaries to a bank account.
• Paying bills – utilities, rent, mobile phone services – all are easier to pay through a bank account.
• Online purchases – a bank card is required for shopping in online stores.
• Receiving social benefits – if you are eligible for social benefits in Poland, they are usually transferred to a bank account.
• Conducting business – a corporate or individual bank account is necessary for running a business in Poland.
• Investments – opening an account allows investing in Polish financial instruments.

What Documents Are Needed to Open an Account?

For residents of Poland:

• Valid passport or other identity document: Passport, karta pobytu (residence card), national ID.
• PESEL number: An individual taxpayer number required for most financial transactions in Poland.
• Proof of address in Poland: Certificate of residence (zameldowanie), rental agreement, utility bill.
• Document confirming employment (for some banks): Employment contract, income certificate (for the last 3 months), bank statement confirming regular income.

For non-residents of Poland:

• Valid passport or other identity document: Passport, national ID.
• Document confirming the purpose of stay in Poland: Visa, invitation, confirmation of accommodation booking.
• Proof of address outside Poland: Bank statement, utility bill, confirmation of residence.
• Document confirming employment (often mandatory): Employment contract, income certificate (for the last 3 months), bank statement confirming regular income. For freelancers – contracts with clients, proof of income.
• Taxpayer number (NIP) – optional but may be useful.

Documents Confirming Employment

• Employment contract – original or certified copy.
• Income certificate (for the last 3 months) – a certificate from the employer confirming the salary amount.
• Bank statement – confirms regular income.
• For freelancers – contracts with clients, invoices confirming payment for completed work.

Tips for a Foreigner Opening a Bank Account

• Compare offers from different banks – banks have different service conditions, fees, and requirements for clients.
• Prepare all necessary documents in advance – this will speed up the account opening process.
• Check the bank’s requirements – contact the bank in advance to learn about required documents and the account opening procedure.
• Learn Polish – although many bank employees speak English, knowledge of Polish can simplify the process.
• Be prepared for an interview – some banks may conduct an interview to clarify the purpose of opening the account.

How to Open a Bank Account in Poland Online for a Foreigner?

Unfortunately, fully opening a bank account online in Poland as a foreigner is difficult. Most banks require an in-person visit to verify identity and sign documents. Some banks may offer a partially online process, but an in-person visit to a branch is usually still required to complete the procedure. Check the websites of the banks you are interested in for detailed information on the possibility of opening an account online and the necessary steps.

If you need more information or have questions, contact our managers for prompt consultation: office@progressholding.pl