How to Set Up a Company in Poland as a Foreigner: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Starting a company in a new country can seem complicated — but Poland makes it surprisingly straightforward for foreign investors. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a growing startup, or a corporate group, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the full process of company registration in Poland in 2025

1. Why Foreigners Choose Poland to Start a Business

Poland has become a European leader in business openness.
Foreigners can own 100% of a Polish company, manage it remotely, and benefit from full access to the EU single market.

Beyond its legal flexibility, Poland offers:
• A stable economy and strong banking system,
• Skilled workforce fluent in English and other European languages,
• Favorable tax incentives (e.g., IP Box, R&D relief), and
• Strategic location between Western and Eastern Europe.

💡 Foreign investors from the EU, UK, USA, and Asia are increasingly choosing Poland for its combination of cost efficiency and legal transparency.

2. Choose the Right Legal Form

The most common type of company for foreign investors is the Limited Liability Company (spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością – sp. z o.o.).

✅ Advantages of a Sp. z o.o.:
• Can be founded by a single shareholder (individual or legal entity)
• Limited personal liability for owners
• Flexible structure for management and profit distribution
• Low share capital requirement: minimum PLN 5,000 (~€1,200)

Other forms include:
• Joint-Stock Company (S.A.) – for large-scale operations or public listings,
• Branch Office – extension of a foreign parent company,
• Representative Office – for marketing and research (no trading).

3. Step-by-Step Company Registration Process

Below is a clear roadmap to register your company in Poland in 2025:

Step 1: Prepare the Articles of Association

This document defines your company’s structure, share capital, and management rules.
It must be signed electronically (eKRS system) or before a Polish notary.

Step 2: Register in the National Court Register (KRS)

All companies must register with the Krajowy Rejestr Sądowy (KRS).
You’ll need to provide:
• Company name and address
• Shareholder and management data
• Articles of Association
• Proof of share capital payment

👉 Timeframe: usually 1–2 weeks for online registration.

Step 3: Obtain Your Tax Numbers (NIP and REGON)

After KRS approval, your company automatically receives:
• NIP – Tax Identification Number
• REGON – Statistical Number for business activity

If you plan to sell goods or services, you’ll also need VAT registration (optional but often recommended).

Step 4: Open a Corporate Bank Account

You’ll need a Polish business bank account to deposit share capital and manage transactions.
Most banks allow English-language service and offer digital onboarding for foreign directors.

Step 5: Register for Social Security (ZUS)

If you plan to employ staff or pay board members, register with the ZUS (Social Insurance Institution) for payroll contributions.

Step 6: Keep Proper Accounting and Compliance

Polish companies must maintain accounting books and file annual financial statements.
Outsourcing bookkeeping to a local accounting office or legal partner is often the most efficient choice.

4. Can You Register a Company Remotely?

As of 2025, foreigners can establish a Polish company fully online, using a trusted profile (Profil Zaufany) or qualified electronic signature.

You can manage the process remotely with help from a local proxy or legal representative, including document signing, VAT registration, and bank setup.

6. Tax and Compliance Basics

Once registered, your company becomes a Polish tax resident, meaning it must pay taxes on Polish income (and potentially global income, depending on structure).

Main taxes:
• Corporate Income Tax (CIT): 19% standard, 9% for small taxpayers
• Value Added Tax (VAT): 23% standard, reduced rates 8%, 5%
• Dividend Tax: 19%, but often reduced under Double Taxation Treaties

To optimize your structure, consult a tax advisor experienced in foreign entities — many reliefs and deductions are available for new investors.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Using an incomplete Articles of Association template (can delay registration)
• Forgetting VAT or ZUS registration after setup
• Choosing the wrong PKD code (business activity type)
• Opening a personal, not corporate bank account for operations

✅ A professional legal or accounting partner can help ensure your company is fully compliant from day one.

8. Summary

Setting up a company in Poland as a foreigner is easier than ever in 2025.
With online registration, transparent tax rules, and EU market access, it’s a strong foundation for any international business expansion.

Whether you plan to open a tech startup, manufacturing branch, or consulting firm — Poland offers the right mix of security, affordability, and growth potential.

📞 Need Legal Assistance in Setting Up Your Polish Company?

From drafting the Articles of Association to opening your bank account — we guide foreign investors through every step of company formation in Poland.
👉 Need help starting your business in Poland? Contact our legal & tax experts today.