Poland
Joanna Krupa
Poland
Poland is a captivating country in Central Europe, renowned for its medieval architecture, hearty cuisine and rich cultural heritage. This charming location offers a robust option for those seeking a blend of urban vibrancy and rural tranquility, away from the hustle of Western Europe.
Dynamic cities like Warsaw and Krakow provide an opportunity for digitally connected, modern living but outside of the urban centres you’ll find mountains, lush forests and secluded spots to chill. The country’s mix of historical charm and modern development makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a more balanced living experience. However, the difficulty of the Polish language, a lagging healthcare system and land border with Ukraine may dissuade some when considering it’s long term viability.
Additionally, as a member of the European Union, it’s important to be aware of upcoming changes, such as the ETIAS travel authorisation entry requirement for visa exempt nationals and the EES biometric data collection measures expected to be implemented in late 2024.
| 🌎 CONTINENT | EUROPE |
|---|---|
| 📌COUNTRY | POLAND |
| 👫🏻POPULATION | 38,179,800 |
| 🙏RELIGION | CATHOLICISM |
| 💵CURRENCY | POLISH ZŁOTY (PLN) |
| 💉C19 VAX REQUIRED | NO |
| 🔌POWER | 230V - 50Hz |
| 💰GDP PER CAPITA | $17,840 USD PER YEAR |
| ✈️AIRPORT | WARSAW - WAW |
|---|---|
| 🪪SCHENGEN VISA FREE | 90 DAYS |
| 🏝️FOREIGN LAND OWNERSHIP | ALLOWED (RESTRICTIONS) |
| 🛜AVG INTERNET SPEED | 100 MBPS |
| 💧TAP WATER | GENERALLY SAFE |
| 🏧ATM LIMIT | VARIES |
| 💳CASHLESS | MOSTLY ACCEPTED |
| 💸TIPPING | 5-15 PERCENT |
TAX FRIENDLINESS
Digital Nomad Tax Friendliness: 70/100
-
- Poland doesn’t have a specific digital nomad visa program.
- Non residents are taxed only on Polish sourced income.
- The country has over 90 international agreements on the elimination of double taxation.
Expat Tax Friendliness: 75/100
-
- Personal income tax rates are progressive: 17% and 32%.
- Non residents are taxed only on Polish sourced income.
- Poland has numerous double taxation agreements which can help mitigate tax burdens.
Investor Tax Friendliness: 80/100
-
- Corporate Income Tax (CIT) rate is 19%.
- There’s a reduced CIT rate of 9% for small taxpayers and startups.
- Various tax incentives are available for certain types of investments.
Crypto Tax Friendliness: 85/100
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- Crypto gains are taxed at a flat rate of 19%.
- Taxable events occur only when converting crypto to fiat currency.
- Crypto to crypto transactions are not taxable events.
- Mining and staking rewards are not taxed until converted to fiat.
POLAND PRICE REFERENCE
POLAND HOLIDAY LETS
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Poland Tourist Visa Requirements
Note: Poland is part of the Schengen Area, which allows visa free travel for up to 90 days within a 180 day period for citizens of many countries. If you require a visa, here are the general requirements:
Essential Documents
- Valid Passport: Must be issued within the last 10 years, have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay in the Schengen area.
- Completed Visa Application Form: Available from the Polish consulate or embassy in your country.
- Two Recent Passport-Sized Photos: Must meet specific requirements, such as being in color and showing a full face.
- Proof of Accommodation: This can be a hotel reservation, rental agreement, or invitation from a host.
- Detailed Travel Itinerary: Includes flight reservations, planned activities, and a day to day schedule.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds: Recent bank statements covering the past 3 to 6 months or proof of financial support
- Travel Health Insurance: Must cover medical expenses within the Schengen area with a minimum coverage of €30,000
- Visa Fee Payment: The amount varies depending on nationality and visa type.
Additional Documents (May Be Required)
- Cover Letter: Explaining the purpose of your visit, intended activities and reasons for choosing Poland as the destination.
- Proof of Employment or Studies: For employed individuals, students or self employed persons.
- Financial Sponsorship: If someone else is covering your expenses.
- Criminal Record Certificate: In some cases, a clean record for the past five years may be required.
- For Minors: Birth certificate and parental consent if traveling alone.
Important Information
- Changes in Requirements: Always check the official Polish consulate website for the most accurate and up to date information as requirements can change.
- Application Timing: Visa applications can be submitted up to 6 months before your planned trip. The recommended processing time is around 15 calendar days, so it’s advisable to apply at least 3 weeks before your intended travel date
- ETIAS Implementation: As of late 2023, Poland plans to implement the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) for visa exempt nationals, requiring online registration prior to travel.
- Entry/Exit System (EES): Expected to be operational by the end of 2024, involving biometric data collection for third country nationals.
Nationality Based Variations
Visa requirements can vary based on your nationality, so it is crucial to consult the official Polish consulate website for the most accurate information.
Digital Nomad Visa
Currently, Poland does not offer a specific digital nomad visa. However, there are alternative options for those wishing to work remotely from Poland:
- Freelance Visa (Type D Visa): This visa is the closest alternative to a digital nomad visa in Poland. It allows for a stay of up to two years and requires the applicant to register as a sole proprietor in Poland and pay Polish taxes. This visa is generally intended for those who have Polish clients or are conducting business in Poland.
- Long-Term Type D Visa: This visa is granted for up to 365 days and requires a valid reason for staying in Poland, such as participating in a course, doing volunteer work or visiting family. It is not specifically designed for digital nomads but can be used for extended stays.
- Schengen Visa: This allows for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180 day period in the Schengen Area, including Poland. However, it does not permit working locally in Poland.
For non EU citizens, working remotely in Poland typically requires securing employment with a Polish company or establishing a business in Poland. EU or EEA citizens can work in Poland without restrictions but must register their residence if staying longer than three months.
Options for Foreign Retirees in Poland
While Poland does not have a specific retirement visa, retirees can explore alternative routes to secure long term residency in the country. These options include applying for a National Long Stay Visa (Type D) or a Temporary Residence Permit. Below are the general requirements and considerations:
National Long-Stay Visa (Type D)
This visa allows for a stay in Poland longer than 90 days and is valid for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. It is suitable for retirees looking to reside in Poland for an extended period.
Requirements:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay.
- Health Insurance: Travel medical insurance covering up to €30,000 within Poland and the Schengen area.
- Proof of Purpose: A statement explaining the purpose of your visit, such as retirement and any relevant documents.
- Financial Means: Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses and any unexpected costs during your stay.
- Accommodation Proof: Evidence of secured accommodation in Poland, such as a rental agreement or property ownership.
- Visa Application Form: Completed and signed application form.
- Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent passport sized photos.
- Visa Fee: Payment of the visa application fee.
Temporary Residence Permit
Retirees can also apply for a Temporary Residence Permit, which allows for a longer stay than the National Long Stay Visa. This permit is renewable and can lead to permanent residency over time.
Requirements:
- Proof of Stable Income: Demonstrate a stable source of income, such as a pension, that can support your stay in Poland.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance covering your stay in Poland.
- Accommodation Proof: Evidence of secured accommodation.
- Clean Criminal Record: A certificate verifying no criminal convictions.
- Application Form: Completed and signed application form.
- Additional Documents: Depending on individual circumstances, additional documents may be requested.
Important Considerations
- Tax Implications: Retirees should be aware of the tax implications of residing in Poland as income, including foreign pensions may be subject to Polish taxes.
- Language and Culture: Learning Polish and understanding local customs can enhance the retirement experience in Poland.
- Cost of Living: Poland offers a lower cost of living compared to many Western European countries, making it an attractive destination for retirees on a fixed income.
OTHER NOTES
ARE ID CARDS REQUIRED
ID Cards in Poland
Short Term Visitors
- Passport as Primary ID: For foreign nationals visiting Poland for a short term stay (up to 90 days), carrying a passport is essential. It serves as the primary form of identification and may be required for hotel check ins, car rentals and interactions with authorities.
- ID Card Not Required: Visitors do not need to obtain a Polish ID card for short stays. The passport will suffice for identification purposes.
Long Term Relocation to Poland
- Residence Card: For foreign nationals planning to relocate to Poland for an extended period, obtaining a residence card is important. This card serves as proof of legal residency and is used for identification within Poland.
- Application Process: Upon receiving a temporary or permanent residence permit, you can apply for a residence card at the local Voivodeship Office. This card is necessary for accessing various services, such as healthcare and banking, and serves as an official ID within Poland.
- Carrying ID: While it is not legally required to carry your residence card at all times, it is advisable to have it on hand for situations where identification is needed.
ARE GM FOODS ALLOWED
EU and Polish GMO Legislation
Poland, as part of the European Union (EU), adheres to the EU’s regulations regarding genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Here is a detailed breakdown of the relevant regulations and their application to Poland:
EU Regulations
The EU has a comprehensive legal framework for GMOs, which includes:
- Directive 2001/18/EC on the deliberate release of GMOs into the environment.
- Regulation (EC) 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed.
- Regulation (EC) 1830/2003 concerning the traceability and labeling of GMOs.
These regulations ensure that GMOs undergo a rigorous safety assessment before being placed on the market and they mandate clear labeling and traceability to enable informed choices by consumers and professionals.
Polish Implementation
Poland has transposed these EU directives into national law and has taken a cautious stance towards GMOs:
- Cultivation Ban: Poland has banned the cultivation of GM crops, such as Monsanto’s MON810 maize and BASF’s Amflora potato, using a safeguard clause that allows member states to reject EU approved GM crops due to concerns like cross pollination with non GM crops.
- Import of GM Foods: Despite the cultivation ban, Poland allows the import of GM foods meaning they can enter the food chain through imports, primarily for animal feed.
Current Status
- GMO Free Zones: Poland has effectively declared itself a GMO free zone for cultivation, reflecting its commitment to protecting its environment and agriculture from the potential impacts of GMOs.
- Regulatory Oversight: The Polish government continues to monitor and regulate the import and use of GM foods, ensuring compliance with EU standards and consumer safety.
TRESPASSING - RIGHT TO ROAM
Polish Trespassing Law, the Right to Roam and Wild Camping
Trespassing Law in Poland
Poland’s legal framework regarding trespassing is relatively strict, and unauthorized entry onto private property is generally prohibited. Trespassing can lead to legal consequences, although enforcement may vary based on the situation:
- Private Property: Entry onto private land without permission is considered trespassing. Property owners have the right to protect their land and violators can face legal action.
- Abandoned Buildings: While exploring abandoned buildings might be tempting for urban explorers, it is technically trespassing. However, enforcement is often lax unless the building poses safety risks or is secured by the owner.
Right to Roam
Poland does not have a formal “right to roam” law like some other European countries. Access to private land is generally restricted and permission from landowners is required to enter private property. However, public lands, such as national parks and forests are accessible for recreational activities:
- Public Lands: Hiking, cycling and other recreational activities are generally allowed in public forests and national parks, provided visitors adhere to regulations and respect the environment.
Wild Camping
Wild camping in Poland is generally not permitted, especially on private land and in national parks. There are specific regulations and restrictions:
- National Parks and Protected Areas: Camping is typically restricted to designated areas. Wild camping is not allowed to protect natural habitats and wildlife.
- Private Land: Camping on private property requires the landowner’s permission.
- Forests: While some areas may allow limited camping, it is essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits.
Conclusion
In Poland, trespassing laws are enforced to protect private property rights and there is no formal right to roam. While public lands offer opportunities for outdoor activities, wild camping is restricted and generally requires adherence to specific regulations. Visitors should always seek permission when necessary and respect local laws to enjoy Poland’s natural beauty responsibly.
420 FRIENDLY?
Cannabis Laws and 420 Culture in Poland
Legal Status of Cannabis
Poland has strict laws regarding the use and possession of cannabis. The legal framework is primarily governed by the Act on Counteracting Drug Addiction:
- Recreational Use: It is illegal to possess, use or sell cannabis for recreational purposes in Poland. Possession can lead to penalties including up to three years in prison, although there is some tolerance for small amounts intended for personal use.
- Medicinal Use: Since 2017, medicinal cannabis has been legal in Poland. Patients can obtain cannabis through prescriptions and the country has recently started domestic cultivation to improve supply.
Cultural Attitudes and Reform Efforts
- Public Perception: Attitudes towards cannabis are evolving, with increasing awareness of its medicinal benefits. However, recreational use remains stigmatized and public opinion is divided.
- Reform Movements: Activists and events like WeedFest aim to shift perceptions and advocate for reform. There is ongoing debate about following neighboring countries, like Germany and the Czech Republic, in liberalizing cannabis laws.
Conclusion
While Poland has made strides in legalizing medicinal cannabis, recreational use remains illegal and culturally sensitive. The country is not considered “420 friendly” and visitors should be aware of the legal implications of cannabis possession and use.