Banking
A general rule for foreigners who need to open a bank account in Poland is to provide some documents confirming their legal stay in Poland and proof of identity.
Depending on the bank, this could be:
- an ID card
- a drivig license
- a declaration of residence
- a residence visa
- some banks might also accept a confirmation of scientific researcher status from Polish University.
Non-residents without a residence card often have to provide one more document which is a Tax Residence Certificate (this certificate prooves your place of residence for tax purposes and helps you avoid double taxation while living in Poland).
Some banks have already prepared a form for foreigners that provides a detailed list of the documents you need to set up a current account, they are for example:
Credit Agricole, Bank Millenium (contract can be sent by courier)
Application can be submitted online: Bank Millenium and Nest Bank, but most of the Polish banks require application at the branch, on-site.
Most popular banks for residents and non-residents in Poland are:
Alior Bank, PNB Paribas, PKO BP, Santander, mBank, Bank Pekao, Bank Millenium, Nest Bank.
It is advised: before going to the bank branch, call their hot line and describe your situation in details, ask for specifics in the following questions:
What documents you need to open an account?
Is there a bank branch in your area that offers a services in ENGLISH?
Will Bank require your PESEL number?
Does the bank provide a transaction system in a foreign language?
As a foreigner, will you have an access to all additional services associated with the account? (for example savings, loans, overdrafts etc)