If you are thinking about living in Poland you need to also start thinking about opening a new bank account.
For immigrants or expats living and working in Poland it can take some time to get used to the banking system. You may not be used to Polish banks, however, with the rise of online banking, the banking experience is becoming easier and more accessible.
You may be wondering, “How do I open a bank account in Poland?” Or, “What steps do I need to take to open a bank account in Poland from abroad?”
In this post we’ll give you an overview of what it takes to open a bank account in Poland.
Below you’ll learn about:
- How to open a bank account in Poland
- Online banking in Poland
- Opening a bank account in Poland from abroad
- Banks in Poland
- How to send money to Poland
How to open a bank account in Poland
There are currently 30 commercial banks and 538 cooperative banks across Poland. The process of opening a bank account in Poland will differ from bank to bank.
It will also be different if you are not a citizen or resident of Poland. Whether you are based in the metropolis of Warsaw or a smaller city like Katowice will also impact your ability to bank.
It is not as confusing as it sounds, we’re here to help you.
For a Polish resident a standard individual bank account at a major Polish bank like Bank Polski or Bank Pekao will require the following documents:
- A valid passport, national ID Card or other type of official document/certificate that displays your photo and bears a signature from the Polish government.
- Proof of residence. Banks accept residence cards and will sometimes accept documents such as a rental contract
- If you are looking to get a credit card or you want an overdraft facility, you will also probably be asked for your banking history or proof of employment.
These are the common things you will need if you go to a branch of a bank in Poland and try to open an account.
The processes may be slightly different in each bank but the list above gives you a good sign of what you might need.
You can find further information on Poland’s banking system by visiting the website of the National Bank of Poland. There you will find information that will make it easier for you to also choose a bank in Poland that is right for you.
Online banking in Poland
In many countries around the world, banks are making their banking experience as mobile and convenient as possible.
Online banking is one of the most important services these days. . In Poland the online banking experience is quite common among the large banks. In particular banks like mBank, which are internet based banks, make it easy and safe to bank online and open an account remotely.
With an mBank online account in Poland you can perform most of the basic functions like checking your balance, reading statements and paying bills, completely online. You can set up your online account at the same time as you open your account in-person at your branch.
In most cases you will need a phone number that is registered with the bank and the card. In this respect, online banking in Poland is similar to the experience in most countries around the world.
Opening a bank account in Poland from abroad
Some banks in Poland only serve citizens and residents that have proof of a local address or a local tax ID. So, what do you do if you want to open a bank account in Poland from abroad?
Some banks have the option of a remote account opening. You will need to complete the standard forms online and arrange for your documents and bank card to be sent to you. They can be sent with a courier who will be able to check your ID or other paperwork. This may be one of the best options if you are an international student in Poland.
How do you open an account with mBank?
One of the easiest banks to use if you are a foreigner hoping to open an account in Poland is mBank.
The first step you should take is to visit their website, as mBank has a sophisticated online system that provides you with a variety of personal banking services including: accounts, cards (debit and credit), loans and financing, savings and investment.
Then, to open a bank account you will need:
- A valid passport, national ID card or other type of official document/certificate that displays your photo and bears a signature from the Polish government.
- Proof of residence
Click here for mBank’s contact centre to learn more about how you can bank in Poland with mBank.
Banks in Poland
Now you know how to open a bank account, it helps to have a list of banks in Poland to choose from.
Here are a few of the biggest and best banks in Poland that are partnered with Small World:
- mBank
- Bank Polski
- Bank Pekao
- ING
- Bank Zachodni WBK
There are a variety of private and public banks in Poland to choose from. By exploring their individual websites you’ll be able to discern which banks will be accessible to you.
Whether you choose to bank with a local bank, a commercial bank, or a foreign or specialized bank in Poland, you can also rely on Small World to help with any of your international money transfer needs.
How can I send money to Poland?
Transferring money to Poland is easy with Small World’s international money transfer service.
You can send money to Poland with Small World via Cash Pickup or Bank deposit. Both methods are quick, simple and secure.
Small World has facilitated millions of money transfers all around the world. So if you need to support your loved ones in Poland you can rely on Small World.
Your first transfer online is always free of fees!
