Publication date: 30.01.2026
Buying a flat in Poland as a foreigner requires knowledge of administrative procedures, tax regulations, and legal restrictions. Depending on citizenship, property type, and location, foreigners may be required to obtain additional permits. Lack of proper preparation may result in serious legal and financial risks.
That is why buying an apartment in Poland should always be approached with a full understanding of ownership regulations, registration requirements, and tax obligations.
Property rights of foreigners in Poland — basic principles
Property rights of foreigners in Poland are generally protected by law, but they are not unlimited. In many cases foreigners can purchase residential apartments without additional approvals, however certain types of real estate are subject to special regulations. Before starting the transaction, it is important to verify:
- whether buying property as a foreigner is possible without additional permits;
- what territorial or functional restrictions apply;
- which documents are required for the transaction;
- whether special authorization is needed.
Early legal verification helps avoid serious complications at later stages.
Permit from the MSWiA — when is it required?
In specific situations a MSWiA permit is mandatory. This applies in particular to:
- purchase of land plots;
- agricultural properties;
- properties located in border zones;
- strategically sensitive real estate.
Lack of a valid permit from the MSWiA may result in the transaction being declared invalid. Therefore, verifying the legal status of the property before signing any agreement is essential.
Buying an apartment in Poland — transaction process
Buying an apartment in Poland as a foreigner consists of several critical steps that directly affect transaction security. The standard procedure includes:
- verification of the land and mortgage register;
- confirmation of seller’s ownership rights;
- checking mortgages and legal encumbrances;
- signing the notarial deed;
- registration of ownership.
A properly structured transaction protects the property rights of foreigners and significantly reduces legal risks.
Property tax and financial obligations
Property tax and additional financial charges are an important part of transaction planning. Many foreigners underestimate the full cost of buying real estate in Poland. The buyer should consider:
- PCC tax or VAT (depending on transaction type);
- notarial fees;
- court registration fees;
- annual property tax;
- administrative and maintenance charges.
Accurate financial planning is just as important as legal verification.
Why is professional support important?
Buying property in Poland as a foreigner involves civil law, administrative law, and tax regulations. Professional legal support allows you to:
- avoid formal mistakes;
- protect property rights of foreigners;
- verify transaction legality;
- reduce tax risks;
- secure financial settlements.
Proper preparation significantly increases the safety of your investment.
Who we are?
Consultant Legal Marketplace is a legal platform that connects foreigners in Poland with experienced specialists in real estate law, migration law, and civil law. We support procedures related to buying property as a foreigner, legal verification of properties, contract analysis, tax obligations, and ownership registration.
Our mission is to ensure legal security, transparency of procedures, and full control over every transaction stage.
Buying property in Poland as a foreigner requires a comprehensive approach. Compliance with MSWiA permit requirements, proper organization of the apartment purchase process in Poland, accurate calculation of property tax, and protection of foreigners' property rights are essential for transaction safety. A well-prepared process helps avoid financial losses, legal disputes, and administrative delays. If you are planning buying property in Poland as a foreigner, it is recommended to verify the legal status of the property, tax obligations, and permit requirements in advance. Proper preparation significantly shortens the transaction time and reduces legal risks.
FAQ — Frequently asked questions
Question
Is a permit from the MSWiA always required?
Answer
No. A permit from theMSWiA is usually not required when buying apartments, but it is mandatory for land and restricted area properties.
Question
What taxes must foreigners pay?
Answer
Foreign buyers must pay property tax, PCC or VAT, as well as notarial and court fees.
Question
Can I buy an apartment without a residence card?
Answer
Yes. Buying an apartment in Poland is possible without a residence card, provided you have legal stay status.
Question
How can foreigners protect property rights?
Answer
To protect property rights of foreigners, it is necessary to verify land registers, ownership history, and legal status of the property.
Question
How long does the buying process take?
Answer
On average, buying property as a foreigner takes between 2 and 6 weeks depending on transaction complexity.
