Property taxes in Poland when buying, selling and in other cases: what an investor needs to know

Poland attracts investors from all over the world by offering favourable conditions for obtaining permanent residence and citizenship. In recent years, this process has become more accessible and understandable thanks to a variety of programmes and support from the Polish authorities. It is possible to move to Poland for permanent residence through several types of investments, starting with the purchase of property and ending with the registration of a business. It is important to learn all the steps, requirements and conditions to make this process as easy and profitable as possible. В

Advantages of moving to Poland for permanent residence for investors

Moving to Poland for permanent residence through investment is a chance to gain stability, confidence in the future and access to huge business opportunities in the EU. The country is located in the very centre of Europe, which makes it an ideal place for those who want to scale up and enter international markets. The state also offers low taxes for businessmen and investors, as well as a high quality of life.

One of the main advantages is the open route to the European Union, which offers visa-free access to 27 countries, including Germany, France, the UK and other major economic centres. By taking advantage of programmes to move to Poland for permanent residence, an investor receives not only economic benefits, but also a large number of rights and freedoms available to EU citizens.

The tax system here attracts entrepreneurs with moderate rates. For example, the profit tax rate for small and medium-sized companies is 19%, which is significantly lower than in some other EU countries. For some types of activities, tax incentives and subsidies from the Polish government may be applied. Poland actively supports startups and innovative companies, providing grants and subsidies for those who create new jobs and develop the country’s economy.

It is also a country with high quality health care, excellent living conditions, high security and cleanliness. Salaries are growing here, and the convenient location and extensive transport network make the territory convenient for permanent residence. Taking into account the totality of factors – moving to Poland for permanent residence is attractive for foreign investors.

Investment programmes for obtaining residence permit and permanent residence in Poland

One of the most popular ways to move to Poland for permanent residence is to participate in an investment programme. Depending on the amount and type of investment, various options for obtaining residency status are possible. It can be buying property, starting a business, buying government bonds or other forms of investment activity. All programmes have clear criteria and deadlines within which the required conditions must be met:

1. Buying a property: the investment amount starts from 300,000 euros, depending on the region and type of property. This investment can provide not only a residence permit, but also a stable rental income.
2. Business registration: starting a company in the country requires an investment of between 100,000 and 500,000 euros, depending on the field of activity. Entrepreneurs can obtain a residence permit for up to 2 years with the possibility of extension.
3. Buying government bonds: this method involves purchasing at least 1 million euros worth of Polish government bonds, which guarantees a residence permit for up to 5 years.

Depending on the option chosen, the investor must provide a certain package of documents, including a business plan (if starting a company), information on income and sources of funds, and proof of investment. All this is done to show that the person intends to contribute to the country’s economy and will contribute to its development.

What documents you need to move to Poland for permanent residence

What documents do I need to move to Poland for permanent residence? The answer to this question depends on the chosen investment programme and specific conditions. In order to start the process of obtaining a residence permit, it is necessary to prepare a package of documentation including several mandatory elements:

1. Passport valid at the time of application, with copies of all pages, and photographs for identification.
2. Copies of bank accounts, tax returns or other documents proving the availability of funds for investment. This may be a bank statement or income document.
3. The investor must provide evidence that the funds for the investment are legitimate and not related to criminal activity. This can be, for example, a contract with a partner or a property transaction document.
4. To apply for a residence permit through the establishment of a business, it is necessary to submit a business plan, which will be evaluated by the Polish authorities.
5. Health insurance, which should cover all possible costs of medical treatment in Poland for the duration of the visa.
6. Documents proving residence in the country: rented accommodation, signed contract or proof of real estate.

It is important that all documents are translated into Polish and fulfil the requirements set out in the visa application instructions.

Step-by-step instructions: how to apply for permanent residence in Poland

The application process to move to Poland for permanent residence includes several stages, each of which has its own peculiarities and requirements:

1. Choosing the type of investment. First you need to choose which investment programme to use to obtain a residence permit. This can be buying property, setting up a business or other options.
2. Document preparation. All necessary materials, including proof of financial solvency, health insurance and proof of source of income, must be gathered in advance.
3. Submission of the application to the consulate or immigration authorities. The application for a residence permit is submitted to the Polish consulate in the country of residence. In some cases, an interview will be required.
4. Waiting for a decision. After submitting the documents, it remains to wait for a decision from the Polish authorities. This may take several months, depending on the programme.
5. Obtaining a residence permit and starting to live in Poland. After the application is approved, the investor will receive a visa to reside in Poland for up to 2 years with the possibility of extension.
6. Transition to PML. After several years of permanent residence, it is possible to apply for permanent residence by providing evidence that all conditions for permanent status have been met.

These steps can vary slightly depending on the type of investment, so it is important to consult with immigration experts beforehand.

How to obtain citizenship in Poland through investments

One of the main conditions for citizenship is to have a stable source of income, as well as active participation in the economic life of the country. For example, for those who have established a successful business, it is important to prove that the company generates income and provides jobs.

Testimonials from real investors: is it worth moving to Poland for permanent residence?

Testimonials from real investors who have already gone through the process of obtaining a residence permit often emphasise several key factors that influenced their choice. In most cases, people are pleased with the low taxes, high-quality infrastructure and business development opportunities.

Many note that the move gave them access to European markets and allowed them to scale their firms into new territories. Investors who have purchased property also emphasise that the housing market in Poland continues to grow, providing additional profit opportunities.

Conclusion

Moving to Poland for permanent residence means a better quality of life and a chance to develop your business in a stable and economically favourable environment. The country, thanks to its location in the centre of Europe, dynamically developing economy and favourable tax system, is an attractive option for investors wishing to enter European markets and secure a better future for themselves.

Mortgages in Poland for foreigners have become a key financial mechanism for buying a home in the EU. The Polish property market is showing steady growth. Demand is supported by a stable economy, favourable geographical location and a developed banking system. The country’s financial institutions willingly provide loans not only to citizens, but also to investors from other countries, especially those with transparent incomes and stable status.

When buying property with mortgage funds, foreigners gain access to a European asset with title protection, predictable repayments and the possibility of subsequent relocation. Rates remain at competitive levels from 3.5 per cent, with down payments starting at 20 per cent. The procedure is clear and the loan term is up to 35 years.

Who and how can get a mortgage in Poland: information for foreigners

Polish banks lend to citizens of the EU, CIS, Asia and the USA, provided they have a stable income, a clear source of funds and a documented legal status in the country. Mortgage in Poland for foreigners is available even without residence permit, but the requirements become stricter in the absence of residency.

Categories of foreign borrowers:

• with a temporary residence permit – in the presence of a labour contract;

• with long-term stay – business owners, investors;

• non-residents without status in Poland – through international programmes;

• EU citizens – equal to local citizens under the terms of the loan.

Legal status affects the amount of contribution, the type of documents and the bank’s interest rate surcharge. The more stable the borrower is, the more favourable the terms.

Terms and conditions of mortgage lending

Mortgages in Poland for foreigners are issued in the national currency – Polish zloty. Foreign currency lending is not available, which reduces the risks of exchange rate fluctuations and ensures predictability of repayments.

Main parameters:

1. The interest rate ranges from 3.5 per cent to 5.2 per cent.

2. Loan term – from 5 to 35 years.

3. The maximum loan amount is up to 80% of the object’s value.

4. Down payment – from 20% (for residents), from 30% (for non-residents).

5. Borrower’s age – from 21 to 70 years old.

6. Property type – new buildings, secondary market, commercial properties.

Banks in Poland will only grant a mortgage loan on condition of a full credit check. Financial history, income, stability of employment and legal clarity of the transaction play a decisive role.

Income, documents and legal details

A mortgage in Poland for foreigners requires a clear and transparent evidence base. The bank analyses the income structure for the last 6-12 months, with preference given to official salaries and contracts.

The mandatory package includes:

• passport and residence permit;

• income statements, tax returns;

• a tenancy agreement or business registration;

• credit report (if there was a previous loan);

• bank statements;

• preliminary sales contract;

• Title documents for the object.

When buying a flat in Poland with a mortgage, a non-resident applies for a tax identification number (PESEL), registers the address of residence and confirms the existence of an account in a Polish bank.

Step-by-step scheme: how to get a mortgage in Poland for a foreigner

Consistency affects the speed of approval and minimises legal and financial risks. Stages of processing:

1. Preparation of financial dossier – translation of documents, certificates, statements.

2. Opening an account in a Polish bank.

3. Obtaining a PESEL tax number and registering an address.

4. Selection of the object and conclusion of the preliminary contract.

5. Property valuation and independent expertise.

6. Submitting a mortgage application to the selected bank.

7. Analysing your credit file and getting approval.

8. Signing of the agreement and transfer of liens.

9. State registration of ownership.

10. Transferring the money to the seller and handing over the keys.

The procedure lasts from 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the completeness of the documents and the promptness of the parties. With the support of an experienced lawyer and mortgage broker, the process is simplified and takes less time.

Banks in Poland: who lends to foreign investors

Home loans in Poland are provided by large universal banks actively working with foreign borrowers. If you have a stable income and a clean dossier, institutions are willing to open financing for the purchase of primary or secondary housing. The most active lenders:

• PKO BP, the country’s largest bank, lends for up to 35 years;

• mBank – loyal terms and high speed of consideration;

• Santander Polska – reliability and a wide range of mortgages;

• Bank Pekao – co-operation with non-residents, rate from 3.7%;

• Alior Bank – active lending to IT professionals and freelancers.

Common investor mistakes

A mortgage in Poland for foreigners requires care. Mistakes increase the processing time or lead to rejection. Below are common problems:

1. Ignoring translation of documents – banks require official translations into Polish.

2. Lack of tax number – without PESEL, clearance is not possible.

3. Insufficient down payment – the bank rejects the application if the contribution is less than the established minimum.

4. Unreliable income – only official and documented income is accepted.

5. Incomplete package of documents – absence of even one certificate slows down approval.

6. Choosing the wrong bank – conditions vary, not all work with foreigners.

7. Buying without prior due diligence – properties with encumbrances create risks.

8. Misunderstanding the payment schedule – incorrect calculation leads to delinquency.

9. Neglecting insurance – insurance lowers the rate and protects the investment.

10. No escort – a professional advisor saves months and reduces risk.

Investing in Polish property: a strategic tool

Mortgage in Poland for foreigners is actively used not only for living but also as an element of property investment strategy. Warsaw, Krakow, Gdansk, Wroclaw – cities with steady growth of housing prices, high demand for rent and active development of infrastructure.

Real estate in Poland brings income from 5 to 8% per annum when rented out, with mortgage payments are often covered by income from tenants. In 5-7 years, the owner builds up capital, improves credit history and receives an asset that grows in value every year.

The mortgage is especially relevant for an investor who plans to:

• to acquire studios in the city centre;

• to invest in an apartment complex for daily rent;

• to buy a property with the intention of selling it after the market rises.

Banks in the country take into account the investment model and provide mortgages if the conditions are met. The payback period for projects with the right structure does not exceed 10 years.

Conclusion

A mortgage in Poland for foreigners opens access to an asset in the EU with minimal risks and high predictability. With the right income, a reasonable down payment and profitability calculation, the property becomes a source of passive income and legal support. Conditions remain transparent, interest rates are competitive and the banking system protects the rights of the borrower and the seller.

Obtaining a mortgage loan requires discipline, but it provides a clear tool for creating capital, building an investment portfolio and solving the issues of living in one of the most promising countries in Central Europe.