How to Open a Polish Bank Account as a Foreigner: Which Banks Accept You and What Documents You Need

A bank account in Poland is not an optional extra - it's a practical necessity for anyone living or working here. Without one, it's difficult to receive your salary by bank transfer, pay rent, use the BLIK payment system, or send money back to Ukraine. Yet many Ukrainians put this off, assuming the process is complicated.

In reality, the requirements for Ukrainian citizens today are significantly more straightforward than for most other foreigners. This article gives you a full checklist - from gathering your documents to logging into your mobile banking app for the first time.

One thing to know upfront: accounts for foreigners can only be opened in person at a bank branch. Online registration is not available for non-residents.

Before You Visit the Branch: Preparation Checklist

Check that you have everything you need:

• An identity document - a passport or national ID card (issued after 1 January 2016)
• A Polish phone number - required by most banks for the mobile app
• PESEL (Polish national identification number) - if you have one. It speeds up the process considerably and gives access to more services
• A residential address in Poland - a temporary one works fine: a friend's address, a hostel, or a rented flat
• RNOKPP (Ukrainian tax identification number) - required by some banks, including BNP Paribas
• A work permit, employment contract, or proof of income is not required by most banks.

For Other Foreigners (non-Ukrainian, non-EU citizens):

The standard document package includes:

• A foreign passport
• Proof of legal stay in Poland - a karta pobytu (residence permit), or a type D or C visa
• A document confirming employment or income in Poland

Which Banks Open Accounts for Foreigners in 2026

Bank Millennium One of the most accessible options for Ukrainians. One document from the following list is enough to open an account: a foreign passport, national ID, driving licence, birth certificate, or a document issued by Polish authorities or Ukrainian consular offices. Ukrainian-language service is available - both in branches and online. No proof of address or employment required.

PKO BP Poland's largest bank. Opens accounts for foreigners with a passport or other identity document. A dedicated information page for Ukrainians is available, with step-by-step banking guidance.

Bank Pekao SA A passport is enough. One of the country's largest banks with an extensive branch network. mBank Opens accounts for Ukrainians with a passport or national ID. Fully digital banking with a convenient mobile app.

Credit Agricole A passport or ID issued after 2016 is sufficient. No proof of employment or residence required. Free transfers to Ukraine are available.

BNP Paribas Required: a passport or ID, a Polish phone number, and a RNOKPP (Ukrainian tax identification number). Branches are equipped for sign language assistance.

ING Bank Śląski One of the following is enough: a passport, karta pobytu (residence permit), visa, or confirmation of a protection application. Branches are available in most major cities and shopping centres (ING Express).

Santander Bank Polska Accepts: a foreign passport, national ID, type D or C visa, karta pobytu (residence permit), or a temporary foreign identity document.

Alior Bank Requires a passport and a karta pobytu (residence permit) or visa. Free account maintenance for Ukrainian citizens for the first 12 months after opening.

Step-by-Step Account Opening Checklist

Step 1 - Choose a bank Check whether there is a branch near your home or workplace Compare terms: account maintenance fees, ATM withdrawals, transfers Step 2 - Prepare your documents

Step 3 - Visit a branch Approach an adviser and let them know you want to open an account Sign the account opening agreement

Step 4 - Get your card and activate online banking Collect your debit card and login details for online banking Download the bank's mobile app Activate your card and set your PIN

Step 5 - Set up notifications and BLIK Enable SMS or push notifications for account transactions Activate BLIK - Poland's mobile payment system that lets you pay in shops and withdraw cash without a physical card

Advice from Gremi Personal

1. Accounts can only be opened in person at a branch - online registration for foreigners is not available.
2. PESEL (Polish national identification number) significantly simplifies the process and unlocks additional services. If you're eligible to get one - apply in advance.
3. Transfers to Ukraine: compare your bank's fees with TransferGo or Wise - in many cases they offer better rates.

Job vacancies across Poland and Europe, official employment, guidance and support at every stage. To find a vacancy - call: +380503349351, +48525275003