Bank Accounts and Payment Systems in Poland (2026)
Poland’s banking sector is highly digitalized, with most services available through advanced mobile applications and online platforms. For foreigners, a local bank account is essential for receiving salaries, paying utilities, and managing administrative fees. As of 2026, the process for opening an account remains structured but has been impacted by updated identification requirements. This guide provides a factual overview of the current banking environment, payment methods, and administrative considerations.
Opening a Bank Account: Requirements and Documentation
Opening a bank account in Poland generally requires a physical visit to a branch for identity verification. While some banks offer digital onboarding for Polish citizens, foreign nationals must usually present original documents to bank staff. The specific documentation required depends on the individual’s nationality and residency status.
| Category | Mandatory Documents | Recommended Additions |
|---|---|---|
| EU/EFTA Citizens | Valid Passport or National ID card | PESEL number, Proof of address |
| Non-EU/EFTA Citizens | Valid Passport, Visa or Residence Card | PESEL number, Rental contract |
| Non-Residents | Passport, Foreign tax ID | Purpose of account statement |
A PESEL number (Universal Electronic System for Registration of the Population) is not always legally required by every bank to open a basic account, but it is strongly recommended. Many banks’ internal systems use the PESEL to verify identity and generate tax documentation. Without it, some mobile features or tax-reporting services may be restricted.
2026 Administrative Changes and Impact
Effective January 1, 2026, the procedure for obtaining a PESEL and completing address registration (meldunek) has changed. Foreigners are now required to appear in person at the local city hall (Urząd Miasta) to complete these formalities; the previous option to handle these via a proxy has been discontinued. Since many banks require a PESEL or proof of registration, this administrative shift means that the timeline for opening a fully functional bank account may depend on an individual's ability to secure an in-person appointment at a municipal office.
Payment Methods and the BLIK System
Cashless payments are the standard in Poland, accepted at virtually all retail outlets, markets, and public transport kiosks. In addition to international card networks like Visa and Mastercard, Poland uses a domestic mobile payment system called BLIK.
The BLIK System
BLIK is a mobile-only payment method integrated into almost all Polish banking apps. It allows users to perform transactions without a physical card by generating a temporary six-digit code.
- Online Shopping: Entering a BLIK code at checkout and confirming the transaction in the bank app.
- ATM Withdrawals: Selecting the BLIK option on an ATM and entering the code to receive cash without a card.
- P2P Transfers: Sending money instantly to a recipient’s phone number (Przelew na telefon) without needing an IBAN.
- In-store Payments: Entering the code on the payment terminal at the cashier.
Banking Fees and ATM Regulations (2026 Update)
Most Polish banks offer "basic payment accounts" which are free of charge for those who meet monthly activity requirements, such as a minimum number of card transactions or a specific total of incoming transfers. However, fee structures are undergoing changes in early 2026.
Effective February 2026, new fee structures for cash withdrawals are being implemented nationwide. Following changes in interbank settlement rules, many independent ATM operators (such as Euronet and Planet Cash) and traditional banks are expected to increase commissions for cash withdrawals. Instead of flat fees, many providers are moving toward a combination of a fixed charge plus a percentage of the withdrawal amount. Users are encouraged to check the fee display on the ATM screen before confirming any transaction.
Limitations and Practical Considerations
While banking is highly accessible, certain limitations remain for foreign nationals:
- Account Freezing: Banks are required by Anti-Money Laundering (AML) laws to maintain up-to-date records. If a residence card or visa expires and is not updated in the bank's system, the account may be temporarily restricted or blocked.
- Credit Products: Access to credit cards, overdrafts, and mortgages usually depends on a documented history of income in Poland (e.g., three to six months of salary transfers) and a valid residence permit.
- Language Support: While the largest banks (PKO BP, Pekao, Santander, mBank, ING, Millennium) offer mobile apps and websites in English, smaller branches in rural areas may have limited English-speaking staff.
Official Resources
For official information on banking rights and payment security in Poland, refer to these resources: