Publication date: 19.08.2024
In this article, we will consider the process of opening an account in a Polish bank and the list of required documents. You will find out how long this procedure can take, as well as what its cost is. This information will be useful for anyone in Poland, including refugees, expats and students.
How to open an account in Poland offline
An active bank account in Poland is required for receiving wages, making offline payments (trade points, restaurants, public transport) and making any online payments.
Foreign workers, students, entrepreneurs and refugees can open an account in Poland. The main types of bank accounts available to clients of financial institutions include:
- Personal account (Osobiste Konto Bankowe) – suitable for everyday financial transactions such as receiving salary and paying bills.
- Account for young people aged 18-26 (Konto dla Młodych) - bank card service is free.
- Business account (Konto firmowe) – for entrepreneurs who have registered their activity and received NIP and REGON codes.
- Currency account (Konto Walutowe) – for operations in currencies such as US dollars or euros.
- Savings account (Konto szędziowe) – for accumulation of savings, usually linked to the main personal account.
To open an account in Poland, use the following step-by-step guide:
- Assess your financial needs. Determine what type of account you need (personal, savings, business, etc.).
- Get acquainted with the conditions of the banks and choose the appropriate option. Find out about document requirements, service costs, fees, credit card terms and conditions and the address of the nearest branch.
- Prepare the necessary documents.
- Fill out the form at the bank branch, specifying all the necessary data.
- Sign the account opening agreement and other documents required by the bank.
- Get your account details, activate it at the branch, and order a physical card.
Please note that the procedure may differ slightly depending on the selected bank. Be sure to check the specific requirements and procedures for opening an account with your chosen financial institution in advance.
How to open an account in a Polish bank online
Online services offer a convenient and fast way to open a Polish bank account. Here's how to do it:
- Choose the bank where you want to open an account and familiarize yourself with its terms and conditions.
- Decide on the type of account that suits your needs.
- Visit the website of the selected bank or use its mobile application.
- Register an account or log in to an existing account.
- Fill out the electronic questionnaire, specifying the necessary data.
- Download electronic copies of the required documents.
- Complete identification. Some banks may require video or other methods to verify identity.
- Accept the terms of the agreement and sign it with an electronic digital signature.
- Wait for confirmation from the bank about opening an account.
- After successfully opening an account, you will receive details and other data for using banking services.
Note that not all Polish banks offer the possibility of opening an account online for foreigners. Often this service is available only to Polish citizens. In this case, you can use the services of fintech projects that offer more flexible conditions for customers, including the ability to open a multi-currency account through a smartphone.
Documents and cost of opening an account in Poland
Polish banks have certain problemsstrict rules for opening accounts by foreigners. Among the mandatory documents:
- original foreign passport;
- identification number (PESEL).
In addition, banks may require:
- Certificate of registration (meldunek);
- temporary residence permit (karta pobytu);
- confirmation of the place of registration abroad.
Most banks offer free account opening or set a minimum fee that depends on the specific institution. The cost of service can vary from 0 to 80 Polish zlotys, depending on the number and volume of monthly transactions, as well as the account balance.
Frequently asked questions: how to open an account in a Polish bank
Question
How to open an account in a Polish bank with a Ukrainian passport?
Respond
For this, you will need an ID passport, where the name and surname are indicated in Latin letters, as well as an identification code.
Question
Is it possible to open a bank account in Poland without PESEL?
Respond
Some banks allow foreigners to open an account without a PESEL number, but in most cases another identification document, such as a Ukrainian identification code, will be required. We recommend clarifying the requirements directly at the bank branch or on its website.
Should you hire a specialist to help you open an account in a bank in Poland?
Of course, you can independently or with the help of Internet resources find the necessary information, where to turn and what is needed for this. However, there is a category of people who find it difficult to solve this issue on their own. In this case, there is an option to involve a specialist in such matters. Our company is developing rapidly and already has lawyers who solve clients' problems, in particular, how to open an account in a Polish bank.
Our team offers:
Speed. Our managers, who are always in touch, are waiting for you around the clock.
Reliability. In case of any problems, we always resolve all issues.
Warranty. If we can't help you, then we'll give you a refund.
Accuracy. Given the experience of our lawyers, we know exactly what steps need to be taken in order for you to have a result.
Opening a bank account in Poland is a fairly simple process that is available to different categories of foreigners, such as workers, students and entrepreneurs. It is important to prepare the necessary documents in advance and familiarize yourself with the conditions of a particular bank in order to choose the best option for your financial needs. The possibility of opening an account online greatly simplifies this process, especially with the help of innovative services, such as contacting us. Regardless of which method you choose, accessing banking services in Poland will open up new opportunities for financial stability and comfort during your stay in this country.
