How to Open a Bank Account in Poland as a Foreign Worker: Step-by-Step Guide

Having a bank account in Poland is a practical necessity for every non-EU temporary worker. Without one, it's difficult to receive your salary by transfer, pay rent, or use online services. The good news: opening a bank account in Poland as a foreigner is absolutely possible — even without a PESEL number.

Why Do You Need a Polish Bank Account?

• Salary payments — most employers pay wages by bank transfer
• Rent and bills — paying for accommodation, electricity, internet
• Sending money home — cheaper than money transfer services or currency exchange offices
• Security — no need to carry large amounts of cash
• Online payments — shopping, transport tickets, mobile apps

What Documents Do You Need?

Requirements vary by bank, but the standard document set is:

• Passport — a valid photo ID document
• Residence document — visa, residence permit (karta pobytu), or an entry stamp confirming legal stay in Poland
• PESEL number — many banks require it, but not all; you can open an account without PESEL at mBank, Santander, or Alior Bank
• Polish address — some banks ask for proof of address (e.g., rental agreement or a letter from your employer)

Important: If you don't have a PESEL number yet, don't wait. Several banks will open an account with just your passport and visa or residence card. You can add your PESEL number later.

Which Banks Are Foreigner-Friendly?

PKO Bank Polski

Poland's largest bank with branches across the country. Opens accounts for foreigners with a residence card or visa. Requires PESEL. English-language service available in major cities.

Bank Pekao SA

Foreigner-friendly with the option to open an account online or in branch. Requires a residence card or work visa. Some branches have Ukrainian- or English-speaking staff.

mBank

One of the most flexible options — you can open an account online without visiting a branch. Does not require PESEL at account opening stage. English-language service available online.

Santander Bank Polska

Opens accounts for temporary workers without PESEL. Mobile app in English. A good option for those who have recently arrived in Poland.

ING Bank Śląski

Fast account opening online or in branch. Good English-language support.

Alior Bank

Foreigner-friendly procedures; some branches offer service in English, Ukrainian, and Russian.

For Ukrainian nationals: Santander, Pekao, and Alior Bank have Ukrainian-speaking staff in selected branches — ask at the entrance.

How to Open a Bank Account: Step by Step

Option 1: In a bank branch

1. Gather your documents: passport + residence document (+ PESEL if you have it + rental agreement)
2. Find the nearest branch of your chosen bank (bank's website or Google Maps)
3. Tell the staff: „Chciałbym/Chciałabym otworzyć konto osobiste. Jestem obcokrajowcem." (I'd like to open a personal account. I'm a foreigner.)
4. Complete the form with the help of a bank employee
5. Sign the agreement — you'll receive your card immediately or by post within 5–7 business days

Option 2: Online (mBank, ING, Santander)

1. Go to the bank's official website and select "Open an account"
2. Fill in the online form using your passport details
3. Complete identity verification: a video call with a bank employee or a 1 grosz verification transfer from another account
4. Upload a scan of your passport and residence document
5. Your card will be delivered by post to your Polish address within 7–10 days

Common Problems and How to Solve Them

Problem: No PESEL number

Solution: Choose a bank that doesn't require PESEL — mBank, Santander, or Alior Bank. Remember that PESEL can be obtained for free at your local gmina (municipality office) — it's mandatory for everyone working legally in Poland.

Problem: Language barrier

Solution: Prepare a note saying: „Chciałbym otworzyć konto. Jestem pracownikiem z Ukrainy / Rosji." Use Google Translate or a translation app. Most bank branches in larger cities have English-speaking staff.

Problem: Account opening refused

Solution: Different banks and even different branches have varying requirements. If one bank refuses, try another. Bring a full set of documents: passport, residence document, employment contract or a letter from your employer confirming your job.

IBAN and Your Salary

Once your account is open, give your IBAN number to your employer so that salary payments go directly to your account. A Polish IBAN consists of 28 characters and begins with the letters "PL".

Example: PL 61 1090 1014 0000 0712 1981 2874

You can find your IBAN in the bank's mobile app, in your account agreement, or on a bank statement.

Summary

Opening a bank account in Poland as a foreign worker is straightforward — all you need is your passport and a residence document. The easiest route is mBank or Santander online, or visiting PKO BP or Pekao in branch. A bank account is the foundation of a safe and convenient life in Poland.

Nexflow helps temporary workers from around the world find legal employment in Poland and Germany. Have questions about documents and formalities? Contact our team — we're here to help.