Investment and Business-Based Residency in Poland (2026)
Unlike some European countries that offer "Golden Visas" for passive investment (such as purchasing real estate or government bonds), Poland does not have a direct citizenship-by-investment or passive residency program. Foreign nationals wishing to obtain residency through financial means must typically pursue the "Active Investor" route. This involves establishing a company, generating specific income, or creating jobs for local citizens.
The "Active Investor" Concept
Polish law requires an economic link to the country that goes beyond capital transfer. The primary pathway is the Temporary Residence Permit for the purpose of conducting a business activity. To qualify, an applicant must not only register a company (usually a Limited Liability Company – Spółka z o.o.) but also demonstrate that this entity is a functioning, profitable part of the Polish economy.
Core Eligibility Criteria
To obtain a residence permit based on business activity, the company must meet at least one of the following two conditions in the tax year preceding the application:
1. Income Threshold
The entity must have generated a net profit not lower than 12 times the average monthly gross salary in the specific voivodeship (province) where the company is registered.
Example Estimate (2026): With an average national gross salary of approximately 9,000 PLN, the company would need to show an annual profit of roughly 108,000 PLN (approx. $27,270 USD as of Jan 12, 2026).
2. Employment Requirement
The entity must employ at least two employees full-time for at least one year prior to the application. These employees must be:
- Polish citizens, or
- EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, or
- Foreigners with specific privileged status (e.g., refugee status, permanent residents).
If neither condition is met at the time of application (e.g., for a newly formed startup), the applicant must demonstrate the ability to meet these conditions in the near future through a solid business plan, investment capital, and documented resources.
The "Poland Prize" for Startups
For innovative business projects, specifically in the tech sector, Poland offers the Poland Prize program. This is a government-backed accelerator designed to attract foreign startups. It does not require the immediate profitability thresholds of the standard business permit.
Program Benefits
- Soft Landing: Visa assistance and relocation support.
- Grants: Financial support up to 300,000 PLN (approx. $75,750 USD) for development (equity-free in many tracks).
- Simplified Residency: Easier path to temporary residence without the initial "12x salary" profit requirement.
Status of "Poland Business Harbour"
The Poland Business Harbour (PBH) program, which previously offered a streamlined visa process for IT specialists and companies (primarily from Eastern Partnership countries), was suspended in early 2024. As of 2026, it is not an active pathway for new individual applicants. Foreigners who previously used this route must now transition to standard business or employment residence permits.
Capital Requirements and Costs
Establishing a business involves specific financial commitments. Note that purchasing residential real estate does not count toward these business capital requirements.
| Expense Item | Cost (PLN) | Cost (USD - Jan 12, 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Min. Share Capital (Sp. z o.o.) | 5,000 PLN | ~$1,262 USD |
| Company Registration (Court Fee) | ~600 PLN | ~$151 USD |
| Residence Application Fee | 340 PLN (Subject to 2026 increase) | ~$86 USD |
| National Visa (Type D) Fee | Varies (increased in 2026) | ~$150 - $220 USD |
2026 Administrative Changes
Effective January 1, 2026, the application process for residence permits has undergone significant modernization:
- Digital Filing: All applications must be submitted via the MOS (Moduł Obsługi Spraw) online portal. Paper applications are no longer accepted.
- In-Person Verification: Despite digital filing, applicants must appear in person to provide fingerprints and show original passports.
- Stricter B2B Scrutiny: The National Labor Inspectorate has increased audits on single-person businesses (B2B contractors) to ensure they are not "fake" employment relationships. Genuine business activity requires multiple clients and independence.
Limitations and Exceptions
- Real Estate: Owning a house or apartment in Poland grants no right to residency. It may only serve as proof of accommodation for other visa types.
- Processing Time: Business residence permits often have the longest processing times (6–12 months) due to the complexity of financial audits performed by the authorities.
- Dependent Visas: Family members can apply for reunification, but the main applicant must prove sufficient income to support them (approx. 600 PLN per person net, plus housing costs) after business expenses.