Relocating to a new country can be thrilling, but it also requires careful planning. For expats moving to Poland, understanding your first steps is crucial. From navigating visa requirements to opening a bank account and choosing the best cities to live in, this guide will walk you through essential tasks that set you up for a successful life in Poland.

1. Visas, Residence & Legal Status

Work Visa & Temporary Residence

Before you can legally live or work in Poland, you need to secure the proper visa or permit. If you're coming from outside the EU/EEA and plan to work, you’ll need a national visa (type D) or a temporary residence and work permit. These are often valid for up to 3 years and allow you to legally reside and work in Poland.

For a comprehensive breakdown of the process, including document checklists and employer responsibilities, visit the HowToPoland Work Visa Guide.

Entry & Insurance Requirements

To enter Poland, you’ll need:

• A valid passport

• A visa or residence permit (if required for your nationality)

• Proof of sufficient funds

• Valid health or travel insurance with at least €30,000 coverage

2. Banking & Credit Cards in Poland

Why You Need a Polish Bank Account

A local bank account is vital for:

• Receiving your salary

• Paying rent and utility bills

• Making online and in-store purchases

• Avoiding international fees

How to Open a Bank Account

To open a Polish bank account, you typically need:

• A passport or EU national ID

• Proof of address (rental agreement or utility bill)

• PESEL number (in many cases)

• Residence permit (for non-EU residents)

• In-person visit to finalize the account setup

For detailed comparisons of the best banks for expats and account types, check out HowToPoland’s Bank Account Guide.

Credit Cards for Expats

To apply for a credit card, most banks require:

• Recent payslips (usually 2,000+ PLN/month)

• Stable employment history

• Proof of Polish address

• Valid passport and PESEL number

• Some banks require a temporary residence permit

Alternative providers like Revolut may offer easier onboarding, but traditional banks remain the most stable option for long-term financial needs.

Popular Banking Tools

• BLIK: Poland’s favorite mobile payment system

• Przelewy24: Fast online bank transfer system for Polish e-commerce

• Visa & Mastercard: Widely accepted in both debit and credit forms

3. Where to Live: Best Cities for Expats in Poland

Choosing where to live will greatly influence your experience. Here are top cities to consider:

Top Cities & Their Perks

Things to Consider

• Commute & Transport: Cities like Warsaw and Kraków have excellent public transport.

• Cost of Living: Warsaw is the most expensive; smaller cities offer significant savings.

• Community: Expat-heavy neighborhoods often provide English-speaking services and social ease.

Neighborhood Tips

• Warsaw: Mokotów, Wilanów, and Śródmieście are popular with expats.

• Kraków: Kazimierz and Grzegórzki offer culture and convenience.

• Wrocław: Śródmieście and Krzyki are modern and accessible.

4. First Things to Do Upon Arrival

To streamline your transition, tackle these essentials early:

1. Register your local address (zameldowanie)

2. Apply for a residence permit before your visa expires

3. Open a Polish bank account

4. Secure a Polish SIM card and internet

5. Find longer-term housing

6. Apply for a credit card once your income is established

7. Familiarize yourself with BLIK and local payment systems

Conclusion

Relocating to Poland is an exciting journey that begins with securing the right visa, setting up your finances, and finding the perfect place to live. Whether you settle in historic Kraków or fast-paced Warsaw, these first steps will lay the foundation for a successful and fulfilling expat experience in Poland.

For ongoing updates and step-by-step support, we recommend visiting:

• HowToPoland Visa Guide

• HowToPoland Bank Accounts Guide