Poland – Banking

What are the main banks in Poland?

Poland’s banking landscape encompasses a broad range of financial institutions — including commercial banks, cooperative banks, and branches of foreign credit institutions — all of which are licensed and subject to supervision by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF). As of August 2025, the sector includes 28 commercial banks (excluding the state-owned Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego) and 488 cooperative banks, with combined balance sheets surpassing PLN 2,756 billion.

The table below lists the most significant banks that expats are likely to come across, together with their official websites. Always verify contact details and service information directly with each bank, as these can change.

PKO Bank Polski (Powszechna Kasa Oszczędności Bank Polski S.A.) holds the position of Poland’s largest bank by total assets, recording assets of approximately PLN 500.75 billion in 2024 and a 14.90% market share. PKO BP also led the country in terms of physical branch presence, operating over 945 branches across Poland as of 2023.

In 2024, Santander Bank Polska was recognised as the top-performing bank in Poland for customer service, product offerings, and marketing communications, with Millennium Bank and PKO Bank Polski following closely. For the most authoritative and current list of licensed institutions, refer directly to the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF).

Do any major international banks operate in Poland?

Foreign ownership accounts for approximately 43.6% of commercial bank assets in Poland as of 2024, with a number of prominent international players active through local subsidiaries or branches. In practice, the boundary between “domestic” and “international” banks is frequently indistinct — a significant share of Polish banks are effectively local arms of major European banking groups.

Large global retail banking groups such as HSBC and Deutsche Bank have largely withdrawn from the retail banking market in Central and Eastern Europe in recent years. HSBC, for instance, no longer maintains a retail presence in Poland. That said, several well-known international names remain active in the Polish market in various capacities:

• Santander Bank Polska — a fully operational retail subsidiary of Spain’s Santander Group, offering an extensive branch and digital presence across Poland. Website: santander.pl
• BNP Paribas Bank Polska — the Polish subsidiary of French banking group BNP Paribas, functioning as a full-service commercial bank. Website: bnpparibas.pl
• ING Bank Śląski — affiliated with the ING Group, ING Bank Śląski operates as a universal bank providing a comprehensive range of retail, corporate, and private banking products and services to both individual and business customers. Website: ing.pl
• Bank Handlowy w Warszawie (Citi Handlowy) — In May 2025, Citi Handlowy announced an agreement to sell its consumer banking business in Poland to VeloBank S.A. and redirect its focus towards institutional and corporate banking. The transfer is expected to be completed around mid-2026, and until then the bank continues to offer its existing range of financial products and services. Website: citibank.pl
• Bank of China (Europe) S.A. — Branch in Poland — present in Poland primarily to serve corporate and international clients.

The footprint of any given international bank may shift over time, and the scope of services available to individual retail customers can differ substantially from those on offer to corporate clients. Always confirm the current retail offering, contact information, and branch locations directly with the bank in question, or check the register of licensed institutions maintained by the KNF at knf.gov.pl.

Do banks in Poland offer accounts or services specifically for expats?

Poland does not have a broadly standardised “expat account” product comparable to the dedicated international banking packages offered by some offshore financial centres. Nevertheless, a number of banks have taken concrete steps to accommodate foreign residents, and non-residents can open accounts at certain institutions as well.

The Polish banking sector has undergone considerable digital transformation in recent years, with many institutions rolling out feature-rich mobile apps, competitive fee structures, and English-language support. This has made everyday banking considerably more accessible for those who are not yet proficient in Polish.

The following banks are regularly highlighted by the expat community for their internationally friendly features:

• mBank — mBank offers a fully digital, English-language account opening process and is a popular option among expats thanks to its award-winning application and entirely online setup procedure.
• Millennium Bank — Millennium Bank does not require foreign applicants to hold a residence permit or a PESEL (Polish national identification number). It maintains a wide branch network across Poland, a modern internet banking platform, and also accepts online applications.
• ING Bank Śląski — ING Bank Śląski allows foreigners to open an account using a passport alongside another document issued in their country of origin that confirms a residential address, or a written declaration by the applicant stating their place of residence abroad.
• PKO Bank Polski — as Poland’s largest institution, PKO BP offers a broad branch network and an increasingly capable English-language digital platform. Foreigners may open accounts here, though documentary requirements tend to be more thorough.

Some banks will only open accounts for individuals who hold a local tax identification number and can demonstrate a local address, while others are prepared to assist foreigners and non-residents. Account terms, monthly fees, and the range of available currencies differ considerably between providers. While some banks charge no fee to open an account, others apply monthly or annual maintenance charges that vary from institution to institution. As of 2025, always check each bank’s current fee schedule directly for precise figures.

Foreign-currency accounts — for example in EUR or USD — are offered by most major Polish banks, and multi-currency functionality is becoming increasingly common. Interest earned on deposits held in Poland is subject to a 19% “Belka tax”. Tax non-residents — those who spend fewer than 183 days per calendar year in Poland — may, however, be entitled to relief under applicable double taxation treaties.

What are typical bank opening hours in Poland?

Branch opening hours in Poland generally align with standard business hours on weekdays, though they vary between banks, individual branches, and locations. The information below represents typical practice — always confirm current hours with your specific branch beforehand.

Branches situated within large shopping centres in major cities such as Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław, Gdańsk, and Poznań frequently operate extended weekday hours and may also open on Saturdays. Branches in smaller towns may keep shorter hours or have reduced Saturday availability. It is advisable to call ahead or consult the bank’s website for the precise schedule of your nearest branch.

Poland’s banks have been at the forefront of digital transformation and have built one of the most forward-looking banking sectors in Central and Eastern Europe. As a result, online and mobile banking are both widely available and highly developed — meaning that for the overwhelming majority of day-to-day transactions, a visit to a physical branch is unnecessary. All major banks also provide telephone banking services, typically available during extended hours.

What do expats need to know about the banking system in Poland?

Poland’s banking system is stable, regulated in line with EU standards, and broadly user-friendly — but there are several important characteristics worth familiarising yourself with before you arrive.

Currency: The Polish Złoty (PLN)

As a SEPA member, Poland’s banks and financial institutions can offer SEPA payments for euro transactions. However, Poland’s official currency is the Polish złoty (PLN), which is not supported by the SEPA schemes. This means that although euro payments can be processed through Polish banking infrastructure, all ordinary domestic transactions — including salaries, rent, and utility bills — are denominated in PLN. Poland is a member of the EU but has not yet adopted the euro.

Deposit Protection

The Bank Guarantee Fund (BFG) guarantees funds held in bank and credit union accounts in both PLN and foreign currencies. Deposits up to the equivalent of €100,000 in PLN are fully protected per depositor per institution (as of 2025). This is broadly comparable to the FDIC scheme in the United States (which covers up to $250,000 per depositor) and the FSCS scheme in the United Kingdom (which covers up to £85,000), although the precise conditions differ. Funds are disbursed within 7 working days from the date on which the KNF suspends activity, appoints a receiver, and files for the bankruptcy of a bank.

It is important to note that branches of EU-based institutions operating in Poland are covered by their home country’s deposit guarantee scheme rather than the BFG, though the EU-wide limit of €100,000 still applies. Always verify which scheme covers your chosen bank by visiting the BFG website (bfg.pl).

Regulation and Supervision

Every bank operating in Poland is licensed and supervised by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF), which ensures adherence to EU regulations and overall sector stability. The KNF is the principal authority for consumer protection matters in banking. Its website is available in English at knf.gov.pl.

Language Barriers

While digital banking platforms at major institutions are increasingly available in English, the level of English spoken by branch staff varies considerably — particularly outside of large cities. Many expats find that advice received over the phone does not always reflect what happens during an in-person visit, and some branch staff may decline foreign applications or request additional documents or translations without forewarning, even when head office policy would permit the account opening. Having a Polish-speaking contact or using a relocation service can be invaluable when setting up your first account.

Swiss Franc Mortgage Exposure

A number of Polish banks carry substantial exposure to Swiss franc-denominated mortgages — a legacy of loans taken out before the franc appreciated sharply against the złoty. This has created legal and financial uncertainty for some institutions, though it does not generally affect everyday retail banking for new customers.

Digital Infrastructure

Poland has cultivated a competitive and technically advanced banking sector, with several institutions actively welcoming international customers. Internet connectivity, mobile app quality, and digital payment infrastructure are all excellent in urban areas, and contactless and mobile payments are accepted at retail outlets across the country.

How do I open a bank account in Poland as an expat?

Getting a local bank account set up is typically one of the first practical tasks you will face after relocating to Poland. Whether you are arriving as a working professional, a student, or a digital nomad, a Polish account is essential for paying rent, receiving your salary, managing utilities, and handling everyday expenses without incurring excessive foreign transaction charges.

A notable development in 2025 is that most major banks no longer insist on a PESEL number before opening an account — you can now apply for both simultaneously at institutions such as PKO Bank Polski, removing the frustrating “chicken-and-egg” situation that previously caused difficulties for many new arrivals.

1. Choose your bank — Research which bank best aligns with your priorities in terms of English-language support, branch accessibility, mobile app quality, and fee levels. There is no universally “best” bank in Poland for expats — what matters most is finding one that will accept your documentation and give you reliable access as a foreign national. mBank, ING Bank Śląski, and Millennium Bank are among those most frequently recommended within the expat community.
2. Gather your documents — EU citizens typically need a passport together with evidence of a Polish address. Non-EU citizens generally require a passport, a residence permit or visa, and income documentation. A passport or residency card is required for expats who have obtained residency permits in Poland, though the precise documents requested can differ from one bank to another. Some institutions may additionally ask for a Polish tax identification number (NIP/PESEL) or a written declaration of your address.
3. Decide: in-branch or online? — Digital banks such as mBank offer fully online applications with video-based identity verification. If you prefer face-to-face service, opt for a branch in a city centre, where staff are more likely to have experience handling foreign applicants. Always telephone ahead, ask to speak to the branch manager, and clarify precisely which documents will be needed before making the journey.
4. Complete the application — Fill in the account opening form (provided in Polish at most traditional banks — bring a translation if required). You will be asked to provide a specimen signature, and the bank may also enquire about the intended purpose of the account and your anticipated transaction volumes, in keeping with anti-money laundering (AML) obligations.
5. Identity verification — For online applications, this stage is typically carried out via video call. Automated verification systems can occasionally struggle with foreign passports — particularly those featuring non-Latin characters or unconventional formatting. If this occurs, completing the process in person at a branch usually resolves the issue.
6. Receive your account details and card — Once your application has been approved, you will be issued an account IBAN. Your debit card may take several days to arrive by post. In some branches — as reported at ING Bank in Warsaw — staff can assist with the application in person and arrange for a card to be issued, with the whole process taking around 30 minutes and the card arriving within two days.
7. Set up online and mobile banking — Activate your internet banking access and download the bank’s mobile app. If available, register for BLIK — Poland’s dominant mobile payment system — as it is extensively used throughout the country for everyday transactions.

If your application is turned down at one branch, consider trying a different location — ideally in a city centre or an area with a high concentration of expats — or attempt the online application process instead. For the most current requirements, refer to your chosen bank’s official website or the KNF at knf.gov.pl.

What banking and payment apps are widely used in Poland?

Poland is home to one of the most sophisticated digital payment ecosystems in Europe, built around its domestically developed mobile payment system, BLIK.

BLIK

BLIK is a Polish mobile payment system that enables users to carry out secure, real-time transactions using a one-time six-digit code generated through their banking application, which remains valid for two minutes. It functions without requiring a physical card and can be used for in-store purchases, online payments, ATM withdrawals, and person-to-person transfers.

As of 2025, BLIK is supported by 20 banks, covering roughly 90% of the Polish banking market, and has established integrations with global payment processors including Stripe, Adyen, and Mastercard. By the first half of 2025, the platform had grown to 19.4 million active users — a 15% year-on-year increase. BLIK commands over 50% market share in Polish e-commerce transactions as of 2024, cementing its position as the country’s leading mobile payment method.

Many Polish shops — smaller ones in particular — accept only BLIK or cash, and some will not process foreign-issued cards at all. As an expat, gaining access to BLIK through a Polish bank account (or via Revolut, which now supports it) should be a practical priority.

Revolut

Revolut is used by over 45 million customers worldwide, including more than 3 million in Poland. In November 2024, Revolut became the first non-Polish financial institution to integrate BLIK. While Revolut users in the EU holding a PLN account can access BLIK, its use is currently confined to transactions with Polish businesses. Revolut is widely used by expats for day-to-day spending, currency exchange, and cross-border transfers. Note that Revolut operates under a Lithuanian banking licence (Revolut Bank UAB) within the EU, not a Polish one.

Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise is generally the preferred option for international transfers when minimising costs is the priority, and many expats in Poland use both Wise and Revolut alongside each other. Wise is fully accessible in Poland and faces no regulatory restrictions. It does not currently offer BLIK integration.

PayPal

PayPal is broadly accepted for online shopping in Poland and is available without restriction. It is, however, less commonly used for domestic peer-to-peer transfers, a space where BLIK has largely taken over.

Express Elixir (instant bank transfers)

Express Elixir is Poland’s instant payment system, launched in 2012 and operated by KIR. It was among the first instant payment systems in Europe and processes transactions in real time around the clock, with funds appearing in the recipient’s account within seconds of initiation. It forms the foundation of the instant transfer features embedded in your Polish bank’s mobile app.

Mobile Banking Apps

Millennium Bank’s mobile application recorded over one billion logins in 2024 from 2.65 million users, driven by features including contactless payments and BLIK integration. mBank, PKO BP (via its IKO app), and ING Bank Śląski also offer highly rated mobile applications with full English-language support. All major banks comply with the EU’s PSD2 open banking regulations, and the KNF oversees sector-wide regulatory compliance.

How can expats manage money between Poland and their home country?

Handling finances across national borders is a routine concern for expats living in Poland. The reassuring news is that Poland’s EU membership and well-developed banking infrastructure make international transfers reasonably accessible — though costs and applicable regulations depend on the currency, destination country, and transfer method involved.

SEPA Transfers (Euro Payments)

As a SEPA member, Poland’s banks and financial institutions can offer SEPA payments for euro transactions. If you are sending or receiving euros to or from another SEPA country — covering most of Europe — transfers are straightforward and relatively inexpensive. Euro Elixir is Poland’s retail payment system for euro-denominated transactions and is the only such system in Poland processing payments in a foreign currency. It connects to the SEPA clearing hub STEP2, making it a fully integrated component of the SEPA framework.

SWIFT / International Wire Transfers

For transfers outside the SEPA zone — for example to destinations in Asia, the Americas, or Africa — SWIFT transfers are available at all major Polish banks. While the local banking system is generally affordable, fees may apply when transacting in foreign currencies or sending money internationally. Bank-to-bank SWIFT charges can range from around PLN 20 to PLN 100 or more per transaction as of 2025, and exchange rate margins at traditional banks are typically less favourable than those offered by specialist providers. Always verify current charges directly with your bank.

Specialist Transfer Services

Providers such as Wise and Revolut generally offer considerably more competitive exchange rates and lower fees than traditional bank SWIFT transfers for cross-border payments. Wise tends to be the preferred choice when securing the lowest possible transfer cost is the priority, while Revolut appeals to those who want multi-currency holding capabilities. Both are fully available in Poland without regulatory restrictions for personal use.

Reporting Requirements for Large Transfers

In common with all EU member states, Poland has anti-money laundering (AML) obligations that require banks to flag suspicious transactions. There is no general prohibition on transferring money in or out of Poland as a private individual, but large or atypical transactions will be subject to standard due diligence procedures. If you are moving significant sums — generally €10,000 or above — be ready to provide documentation establishing the origin of the funds. Poland is a member of FATF (the Financial Action Task Force).

Tax Considerations

If you become a tax resident of Poland — typically defined as spending more than 183 days per calendar year in the country — you may be required to declare foreign bank accounts and overseas income to the Polish tax authority, Krajowa Administracja Skarbowa (KAS). All interest earned on bank deposits is subject to the 19% Belka tax. Tax non-residents who do not exceed 183 days per year in Poland may be entitled to relief under applicable double taxation agreements. For authoritative guidance on tax obligations relating to foreign accounts and international transfers, consult the Polish Tax Authority (KAS) or a qualified tax adviser.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Polish bank account before I arrive in Poland?

Digital banks such as mBank offer fully online applications with video-based identity verification, which in some cases makes it possible to open an account before physically arriving in Poland. However, most traditional Polish banks require non-residents to attend in person, and not every branch is equipped to handle foreign applicants. If you need immediate banking access upon arrival, setting up a Revolut or Wise account in advance is a sensible interim measure while you arrange a local account.

Do I need a PESEL number to open a bank account in Poland?

As of 2025, most banks no longer require an upfront PESEL number — you can apply for both your bank account and PESEL simultaneously at major banks like PKO Bank Polski. Millennium Bank is also well known for not requiring a foreign applicant to hold either a residence permit or a PESEL. Requirements are subject to change, so confirm the current policy directly with your chosen bank.

Are my deposits safe in a Polish bank?

The Bank Guarantee Fund (BFG) guarantees deposits held in bank accounts in both PLN and foreign currencies. Funds up to the equivalent of €100,000 in PLN are fully protected per depositor per institution (as of 2025), consistent with the EU-wide deposit guarantee standard. For a full list of covered institutions, visit bfg.pl.

What is BLIK and do I need it?

BLIK allows users to make online and in-store purchases and send money in real time between bank accounts and ATMs — including cash withdrawals — without requiring a physical payment card. Each transaction is authenticated by a six-digit one-time code, valid for up to two minutes, generated through the user’s mobile banking app. While BLIK is not strictly compulsory, it is effectively indispensable for daily life in Poland — many smaller shops, online retailers, and peer-to-peer payment scenarios rely on it almost entirely.

Can I use Revolut or Wise instead of a Polish bank account?

Although digital alternatives such as Revolut and Wise can satisfy certain short-term needs, a Polish bank account remains necessary for many administrative processes. Employers typically require a Polish IBAN to process salary payments, landlords generally prefer local bank transfers for rent, and certain government payments — including tax refunds — are made directly to Polish accounts. Most expats find it practical to maintain both a Polish bank account and a fintech app for different purposes.

Do Polish banks offer services in English?

Digital banking has advanced substantially in Poland, and several banks now offer comprehensive English-language support alongside streamlined online account opening processes. mBank and ING Bank Śląski are particularly well regarded for the quality of their English-language digital interfaces. In-branch service in English, however, can be inconsistent — especially in smaller cities and towns. For those who need face-to-face assistance, branches in major city centres are your most reliable option.

What currency does Poland use — will I need a euro account?

Poland uses the Polish złoty (PLN). Poland’s official currency is the Polish złoty (PLN), which is not supported by the SEPA schemes, although SEPA euro transfers remain possible through dedicated euro payment rails. Multi-currency accounts offering EUR, USD, and GBP are available from most major banks and fintech providers, but your primary day-to-day account will operate in PLN. Poland has not announced a date for adopting the euro.

What happens if I want to send money abroad from Poland?

International transfers can be made through all major Polish banks via SWIFT and, for euro payments within the SEPA zone, via Euro Elixir. Fees may apply when dealing with foreign currencies or cross-border transfers. For more competitive rates, specialist services such as Wise or Revolut are widely used by expats in Poland and operate without restriction. For large transfers, your bank may request documentation confirming the source of funds in line with standard AML requirements. For regulatory guidance, consult the KNF or the National Bank of Poland.

Which regulator oversees banking in Poland?

All banks in Poland are licensed and supervised by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF), which ensures sector stability and compliance with EU regulations. The KNF also handles consumer complaints relating to banking services. The National Bank of Poland (NBP / Narodowy Bank Polski) acts as the country’s central bank and is responsible for monetary policy and systemic financial stability. Both authorities publish English-language information on their official websites: knf.gov.pl and nbp.pl.