Real Estate in Poland: Opportunities and Prospects

Poland has changed borders, constitutions and regimes many times, but the question “how to obtain Polish citizenship” has always remained relevant. Today, in 2025, the laws have simplified the procedures but tightened the requirements. In order to obtain an EU passport, not only certificates are important, but also a competent approach.

Law through roots: the origin and map of the Pole

Nationality remains the shortest route to citizenship status. The law provides for the possibility to prove descent through the line of parents and grandparents. Having archival evidence of the Polish nationality of ancestors gives access to the Pole Card, a key document that significantly speeds up the processing of civil status.

In 2025, the card gives a free visa, a simplified residence permit and after one year – a permanent residence permit with the right to apply for citizenship. It is important to prove not only kinship, but also cultural connection: language, history, participation in the diaspora. Without this, you will be refused, even if you have the documents.

Polish passport through marriage: myths and realities

Union with a Polish citizen does not automatically guarantee a passport. The law requires cohabitation in the country for a minimum of two years for residence permit, followed by another year for permanent residence. Registration of marriage abroad is not enough. It is important to reside in Poland, maintain a common household and be prepared for inspections by the Voivodeship Office. Fake marriages are detected with astonishing accuracy – up to 75 per cent of applications are rejected for this reason.

Birth in the territory: right of place

Being born in Poland does not always give grounds for a passport. Unlike the United States, the country applies the principle of jus sanguinis – the right of blood, not territory. But a child born to parents with permanent residence permits is eligible to apply for Polish citizenship.

If one of the parents is a citizen and the other is a foreigner, the child automatically receives citizenship status. At the same time, the system of dual citizenship status is allowed, which is favourable for families with an international composition.

Accommodation: a path through stability

Long-term legal residence is the most predictable way. First, a temporary residence permit (2-3 years), then a permanent residence permit, and only then an application for citizenship. According to statistics, in 2024, more than 35% of newly minted citizens followed this route.

The main thing is not to interrupt legal residence and fulfil tax obligations. How to become a Polish citizen in this case is a matter of discipline. The voivode takes into account not only the length of stay, but also the level of integration: language, work, participation in society.

How to obtain Polish citizenship through real estate

Investments in Polish real estate do not grant automatic citizenship, but provide a platform for legalisation. Buying a flat worth €150,000 or more in Warsaw or Krakow allows you to obtain a long-term visa based on rental income. After five years – the opportunity to apply for permanent residence, then – to get a Polish passport.

It is important not just to buy housing, but to confirm sources of income, pay taxes, and register a rental business. This approach is favoured by the state because it contributes to the economy.

Stability and tax discipline

Official employment in Poland opens the way to permanent residence and then to citizenship. The employer applies for a permit, after which a temporary residence permit is issued. In case of continuous employment for 5 years and compliance with all tax regulations, the right to apply for Polish citizenship appears.

Highly qualified specialists get an advantage – for them the period can be reduced to 3 years. IT experts, engineers, doctors and teachers of technical universities are particularly valued. Knowledge of the national language and availability of housing are also taken into account. Dismissal, relocation or breach of contract automatically resets the “years counter”.

Language as a tool for integration

Polish legislation treats language not as a formality but as a key indicator of integration. Regardless of the grounds, every candidate is obliged to pass the state examination in Polish at the B1 level. The only exception is for persons who have been educated in the country.

In 2024, the rejection rate due to failure to pass the language exceeded 22 per cent. The problem is not grammar, but the inability to conduct a lively dialogue. The Commission does not test theory, but everyday speech, communication skills and understanding of Polish culture. Without a confident command of the language, the question of how to obtain Polish citizenship becomes a dead end.

Humanitarian and exceptional cases

The Minister of the Interior is authorised to grant individual citizenship status. Cases concern refugees, figures of science, sport and culture. For example, in 2023 a foreigner was granted citizenship for his contribution to the development of Polish neurosurgery. Such exceptions are not subject to the general rules and cannot be predicted.

Naturalisation under a simplified procedure is also possible for citizens of Ukraine, Belarus and Georgia. But even in these cases language, residence and legal status are mandatory.

How to obtain Polish citizenship in 2025

The candidate must pass a final background check before submitting the paperwork. The Voivodeship Office evaluates:

• Having a legitimate source of income;
• no criminal record;
• full fiscal discipline;
• level of integration;
• housing or long-term leases.

If all conditions are fulfilled, the decision takes from 3 to 12 months. Refusal is possible even if all formalities are fulfilled – Polish citizenship is not included in the list of automatic rights.  It is a discretionary decision of the state.

Conclusion

Citizenship status is not granted formally. Each case requires a real connection to the country – through origin, residence, work or culture. The law becomes stricter but remains accessible with a clear strategy. It is important not to look for loopholes, but to choose the right path and follow it to the end. How to obtain Polish citizenship is a matter of engagement, not formalities.

There are more and more people wishing to settle in the Polish metropolis, so the demand for housing is constantly growing. Warsaw’s districts for buying property are diverse: from elite neighbourhoods in the centre to promising suburbs with affordable prices. Everyone will find a suitable option.

The growth in the cost per square metre has been observed over the last ten years. According to Polish analysts, the annual increase in property prices is 5-10%. In some districts of the capital the figures are even higher. This is influenced by the developed transport network, modern residential complexes and high standard of living. Where to buy a flat in Warsaw depends on your goals: living, renting or investing.

Warsaw neighbourhoods for buying property

Choosing where to live is a key factor when buying a home. Warsaw districts for buying property vary in terms of prestige, infrastructure, security and cost per square metre. In the centre there are expensive residential complexes and office buildings. Dormitory districts offer comfortable housing at a reasonable price.

In recent years, interest in property in Warsaw has been growing. Flats are bought by locals and foreign investors. When choosing a district, people pay attention to the convenience and travel time to work, the quality of schools and the availability of shopping centres. Prices for housing in the neighbourhoods differ, but you can find an option for any budget.

Some districts of the capital are considered the best for life. They are characterised by convenient infrastructure, good houses and affordable prices. Others attract investors with prospects of price growth and active construction of new objects. The choice depends on the preferences and goals of the buyer: comfortable living, renting or long-term investment.

Warsaw city centre: prestige and high prices

The proximity to business districts and historical sights makes the central districts the most expensive. The average property price here exceeds 20,000 PLN per m². The main offers are concentrated in business class new buildings. The flats here are equipped with smart home systems, underground car parks and security.

Joliboge is an upmarket neighbourhood with history

A neighbourhood with a rich history and unique architecture. Low-rise residential complexes with closed territories prevail here. The cost of housing is 18,000-20,000 PLN per m². Żoliborz is ideal for those who appreciate silence, green areas and a high level of security.

Wola and Mokotów: balancing comfort and accessibility

The neighbourhoods are ideal for working professionals. Developed infrastructure, proximity to the metro and diversity of housing make them attractive for families and investors. Where to buy a flat in Warsaw to combine comfort and affordability? Wola and Mokotów offer flats starting from 12 500 PLN per m².

Prague-Pulnoc and Bemovo: promising areas for investment

These neighbourhoods are under active development. Prague-Pulnoc attracts property developers, while Bemovo remains one of the greenest and most environmentally friendly areas in the capital. The average price of housing here is 10,500-12,000 PLN per m².

Warsaw real estate: prices by neighbourhood

The cost of housing in Warsaw depends on the region, the age of the house and the type of development. In the centre, prices can reach 20,000 PLN per m², while in new complexes prices start from 15,000 PLN per m². On the outskirts you can find offers for 9,000 PLN per m².

Price table by area:

Property in Warsaw for foreigners: what you need to know

Foreign buyers can purchase flats in Warsaw without restrictions. The purchase of houses with land plots requires a special permit from the Polish Ministry of Interior. Owning a flat does not automatically entitle you to a residence permit or a permanent residence permit, but it significantly facilitates the process of obtaining them.

Legal aspects and authorisations

Polish law does not restrict foreigners from buying flats and flats. But buying a private house with a plot of land requires a special permit. The process takes several months and requires proof of connection with Poland. For example: having a business, job or family ties.

Basic requirements for the purchase of real estate by foreigners

In order to buy a flat in Warsaw, you need to fulfil a number of conditions and submit documents:

• passport and identification number (PESEL). The identification number is required for tax operations and transaction registration;
• an open bank account in a Polish bank. A prerequisite for transferring funds and paying for the purchase;
• a notarised contract of sale. The conclusion of the transaction takes place only at a notary, who records the change of ownership in the state register;
• payment of taxes and registration fees. The buyer must pay the civil transaction tax (2% of the property value) and pay the title registration fee.

Additional nuances for foreign buyers:

1. Possibility to take out a mortgage: foreigners can obtain a mortgage loan from Polish banks. This requires a stable income and proof of financial solvency.
2. Taxes and additional costs: in addition to the main tax, the buyer pays the services of a notary (0.5-1% of the value). Also the registration of the transaction and possible realtor fees.
3. Property documents: before buying, it is important to check the history of the flat, absence of debts and arrests on the property.

Overall, property in Warsaw remains an open and promising market for foreigners. Here, buyers can purchase housing with minimal restrictions and favourable conditions.

Reviews about buying property in Warsaw

According to the feedback from owners, buying a home in Warsaw is a profitable investment. Especially in areas with developed infrastructure and the prospect of price growth. The main advantages are noted by investors buying flats for rent. Rental yields average 5-7% per annum.

Disadvantages include high prices in the centre and difficulties with parking. Residents of suburban areas point out the long journey to the centre during rush hours. They compensate for this by the comfort of living.

Which Warsaw neighbourhood should I choose for buying a property?

The choice of neighbourhood depends on your goals. For a comfortable life, Zolibozh and Mokotów are more suitable. For business and investment, the Centre and Volia are advantageous. If it is important to find affordable housing, you should pay attention to Prague-Pulnotz and Bemowo. Warsaw’s neighbourhoods for buying property are diverse. Everyone can find the best option, taking into account their budget and needs.