Poland is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for foreign entrepreneurs looking to expand into the European Union. With a strategic location, a robust economy, a well‑educated workforce, and business‑friendly regulations, Poland offers fertile ground for starting a business — even if you're not a Polish citizen. Company registration in Poland refers to the formal incorporation of a new business entity, authorized under Polish law, which gains the legal capacity to conduct commercial operations, hire employees, and enter into contracts. Proper registration ensures you meet Poland”s mandatory regulatory and tax obligations, giving your venture legitimacy and security.
Can a Foreigner Register a Company in Poland?
Yes. Foreigners can register and fully own a company in Poland. EU/EEA citizens enjoy the same rights as Polish nationals, while non‑EU citizens can also register a company — though they may need to meet additional requirements such as securing a visa or residence permit.
Popular business structures for foreigners include:
- Limited Liability Company (Sp. z o.o.) – The most common vehicle for foreign investors.- Sole Proprietorship (Jednoosobowa działalność gospodarcza) – Available primarily to EU/EEA residents.
- Branch or Representative Office – Ideal for expanding an existing foreign business.
Poland Company Registration Fees & Cost (2025)
| Item | Estimated Cost (PLN) | EUR Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Company registration via eKRS | 350 | ~80 |
| Notarial deed (if not online) | 500–1,000 | ~115–230 |
| Share capital (minimum) | 5,000 | ~1,150 |
| Legal/Accounting assistance | 1,000–3,000 | ~230–690 |
| Total (Basic setup) | ~5,850+ | ~1,350+ |
Tip: If you register company in Poland you can also benefit from several tax incentives and reliefs, such as IP Box, R&D tax relief or expansion tax relief.
How to Create a Company in Poland
- Choose a business structure (e.g., Sp. z o.o., sole proprietorship).
- Select a company name and verify its availability in the National Court Register (KRS).
- Prepare the Articles of Association (standard template or notarized version).
- Register through eKRS or with a notary public.
- Obtain a REGON statistical number.
- Register for taxes (including VAT if applicable) with the tax office.
- Open a Polish business bank account.
- Contribute the minimum share capital (5,000 PLN for an Sp. z o.o.).
- Hire an accountant for ongoing compliance, payroll, and reporting.
Note: A registered company address in Poland is mandatory for the registration process. This address will be the official correspondence address for your business and must be within Polish territory.
Polish Company Tax Overview (2025)
| Type of Tax | Rate |
|---|---|
| Corporate Income Tax (CIT) | 19% (standard) / 9% (small taxpayer) |
| Value‑Added Tax (VAT) | 23% (standard), 8% or 5% (reduced) |
| Dividend Withholding Tax | 19% |
| Social Security (ZUS) – employer share | ≈1,300–1,800 PLN/month |
Note: If your annual turnover is below 2 million EUR, you may qualify for the reduced 9% CIT rate.
FAQ: Starting a Business in Poland
Can a foreigner register a company in Poland?
Yes. Both EU and non‑EU foreigners can register and fully own a company in Poland. Non‑EU citizens may need a visa or residence permit depending on their involvement and company structure.
How much does it cost to register a company in Poland?
Budget at least ~5,850 PLN (~1,350 EUR) for the basic setup of a limited liability company (Sp. z o.o.), including share capital and registration fees.
How much is company tax in Poland?
The standard corporate income tax rate in Poland is 19%, but a reduced 9% corporate income tax rate applies to small taxpayers and certain corporations with revenues under EUR 2 million.
How long does it take to set up a company in Poland?
Poland is one of the largest markets in the European Union, offering a strategic central location that connects to Eastern European markets. Registration Timeframe: Online: 3–5 days; Manual: 4–6 weeks.
How long does it take to set up a company in Poland?
In short: choose a structure, prepare documents, register with eKRS or a notary, set up tax and bank accounts, and maintain compliance via an accountant. Working with our experts can help streamline this process, providing valuable insights and tailored strategies to ensure successful outcome.