More and more citizens of Ukraine, Belarus, and other countries are choosing Poland as a place to live, work, or study. Over a million Ukrainians have started their new lives here since 2022. One of the first and most important steps after arriving in Poland is opening a bank account. Why? Because without it, it is difficult to function normally today — to receive a salary, pay rent, or even sign a contract with a phone operator.
In this article, we will explain step by step how to open a bank account in Poland, what documents will be needed, and why a bank account in Poland is the key to a comfortable life.
Why is a bank account in Poland a necessity?
Property tax in Poland, utility bills, internet, or loan installments — all of these are usually paid via transfer from a local account. Without a bank account in Poland, it is difficult to:
- receive salary from an employer,
- receive scholarships or benefits (e.g., 500+ for children),
- sign a rental agreement (landlords often request a transfer to a Polish account),
- avoid high commissions for currency conversions.
Additionally, most payments in Poland are made cashless. A debit card linked to the account allows you to pay in stores, for public transport tickets, order online, and thanks to Blik — even without a card.
How to open a bank account in Poland step by step?
1. Choose a bank
First, check which banks offer service in English, Russian, or Ukrainian. Popular among foreigners are:
- mBank
- Santander
- Bank Millennium
- PKO BP
- Pekao SA
These banks have websites and apps also in English, and often have advisors in branches who speak Ukrainian or Russian.
2. Prepare documents
Typically, you will need:
- passport (or residence card),
- address in Poland (this can be a rental agreement, a statement from the landlord, or proof of residence),
- PESEL number (if you already have it — it facilitates the formalities, but it is not always required).
Some banks may ask for additional documents — e.g., an employment contract or a certificate from the university that you are a student.
3. Go to a branch or apply online
You will most likely open the account at a branch. An employee will fill out the application with you, make copies of the documents, and ask you to sign the agreement. The account is usually active immediately, and you will receive your ATM card by mail within a few days.
Some banks (e.g., mBank, ING) allow you to open an account fully online — you need to take photos of the documents and a selfie in the app.
Can a foreigner without a PESEL open an account?
Yes. Many clients from Ukraine or Belarus open an account based solely on their passport and an address in Poland. In practice, each bank has its own rules — sometimes one branch will require a PESEL, while another will open an account on the spot. Therefore, it is worth calling the helpline in advance to confirm what documents will be required.
How much does a bank account cost in Poland?
It depends on the bank and the package. In most cases, a basic account is free provided that a certain amount (salary) is deposited monthly or you make several card payments.
Typical costs are:
- 0–15 zł per month for account maintenance,
- 0–7 zł for the card (often free with a few transactions),
- 0 zł for transfers in złoty within Poland.
Business account in Poland
If you run a business in Poland (e.g., sole proprietorship — JDG or limited liability company), you must have a separate business account. The procedure for opening it is similar, but additionally, you will need the company's registration documents (NIP, REGON, CEIDG or KRS entry).
Account for freelancers or remote workers
If you work online (e.g., IT, graphic design, marketing) and receive transfers from abroad, a regular personal account is sufficient. It is worth choosing a bank with favorable currency conversion conditions and cheap SEPA or SWIFT transfers.
How to effectively use an account in Poland?
- Pay with a card or Blik, avoiding high commissions for cash withdrawals from foreign ATMs.
- Keep savings in złoty to avoid losses from currency conversions.
- Check your transaction history in the mobile app to monitor expenses and any fees.
Summary: A Bank Account is Your Foundation in Poland
A bank account in a Polish bank is not a luxury, but a necessity — whether you came for work, studies, or with the intention of investing in real estate in Poland. With it, you can easily pay bills, rent, property taxes, and also receive salary or benefits.
If you are planning to purchase an apartment or house in Poland, our team at Atlant Estates will not only help you find the perfect property but also advise you on how to conveniently open a bank account. Contact us — we will guide you at every stage of your relocation and investment!