Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Poland Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Poland Property Pack
Buying property in Poland as a foreigner is generally straightforward, especially for EU citizens who face minimal restrictions. Non-EU buyers need permits for houses with land but can purchase apartments freely in most cases. The process typically takes 8-12 weeks and requires a 10-20% deposit, with all transactions finalized through a Polish notary.
Poland's real estate market offers competitive prices compared to Western Europe, with average costs ranging from 9,000 PLN per square meter in Wrocław to 18,000 PLN in prime Warsaw locations. While language barriers exist, licensed translators can assist during the purchase process, and many real estate professionals cater specifically to international buyers.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Poland, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Buying property in Poland as a foreigner involves different requirements depending on your nationality, with EU citizens enjoying nearly the same rights as Polish nationals while non-EU buyers need permits for certain property types.
The process typically costs 5-7% of the property value in additional fees and takes 2-3 months to complete, requiring proper documentation and notary involvement.
| Buyer Type | Requirements | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens | No permits needed for apartments and most properties | 8-10 weeks |
| Non-EU Citizens | Permit required for houses with land, apartments usually exempt | 12-16 weeks (including permit) |
| Minimum Deposit | 10-20% for cash buyers, 20-30% for foreign mortgage applicants | Due at preliminary contract |
| Total Fees | 5-7% of property value (notary, taxes, agency) | Paid at completion |
| Language Requirement | Polish not required, licensed translator needed at signing | Throughout process |
| Mortgage Availability | Available but more restrictive for non-residents | 4-6 weeks approval |
| Residency Requirement | None - ownership doesn't grant residency status | N/A |
What are the main requirements for a foreigner to buy property in Poland?
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can buy residential and commercial properties in Poland without any permits, enjoying nearly identical rights to Polish nationals.
Non-EU citizens face more restrictions and typically need a permit from the Ministry of Internal Affairs when purchasing standalone houses with land or plots outside multi-unit buildings. However, apartments in residential complexes usually don't require permits for foreign buyers.
All property purchases must be finalized through a Polish notary, and the property must be registered in the Land and Mortgage Register regardless of your nationality. Physical presence isn't mandatory - you can use a legal representative with notarized power of attorney to complete the transaction remotely.
The permit application process for non-EU buyers takes 4-8 weeks and requires detailed documentation about the property and your intended use. This permit requirement is the main barrier that can make purchasing more complex for buyers from countries like the UK, US, or Canada.
It's something we develop in our Poland property pack.
Do I need to speak Polish to buy property in Poland?
Speaking Polish is not required to buy property in Poland, but all legal documents and contracts are prepared in Polish language.
If you don't speak Polish fluently, a licensed translator must be present during the notary signing process. This is a legal requirement that ensures you fully understand all terms and conditions of your purchase agreement.
Most communication with banks, government authorities, and legal professionals must be conducted in Polish or accompanied by certified translations. Many real estate agencies in major cities like Warsaw and Kraków offer English-speaking services specifically for international buyers.
The translation costs typically range from 200-500 PLN per document, depending on complexity and length. It's important to budget for these additional translation expenses when calculating your total purchase costs.
What is the minimum deposit required for purchasing property in Poland?
The standard deposit for property purchases in Poland ranges from 10-20% of the total purchase price for cash buyers.
Foreign buyers seeking mortgages typically face higher deposit requirements of 20-30%, as Polish banks consider non-residents higher risk borrowers. The exact percentage depends on your nationality, income source, and the specific bank's policies.
Some government-backed 0% deposit schemes exist, but these programs usually have strict residency requirements and limited availability that excludes most foreign buyers. EU citizens generally have better access to favorable financing terms compared to non-EU buyers.
The deposit is typically paid when signing the preliminary purchase agreement (Umowa Przedwstępna), which legally binds both parties to complete the transaction. This amount is held in escrow until the final notary deed is signed and registered.
Are there specific areas or cities in Poland where foreigners are restricted from buying property?
No blanket geographical restrictions exist for foreigners buying apartments in major Polish cities like Warsaw, Kraków, or Wrocław.
The main restrictions apply to property types rather than locations - agricultural land and forestry properties have strict limitations, especially for non-EU buyers who need special permits that are rarely granted. Standalone houses with significant land plots also typically require permits for non-EU citizens.
Urban apartments in residential buildings and commercial properties in city centers are generally available to all foreign buyers without geographic restrictions. Border areas don't have additional limitations beyond the standard permit requirements for certain property types.
Some municipalities may have local zoning restrictions, but these apply equally to Polish and foreign buyers. The key factor is always the property type and your nationality, not the specific location within Poland.
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What taxes and fees should I expect when buying property in Poland?
| Fee Type | Percentage/Amount | When Paid |
|---|---|---|
| Property Transfer Tax | 2% of property value | At completion (secondary market) |
| Notary Fee | 1-2% (legally capped) | At notary signing |
| Real Estate Agent Commission | 2-3% of property value | At completion |
| Land Registry Fee | ~200 PLN fixed amount | After purchase registration |
| Mortgage Tax | 0.1-2% of loan amount | During mortgage setup |
| Translation Services | 200-500 PLN per document | Throughout process |
| Legal/Administrative Costs | 500-2,000 PLN total | Various stages |
Is it difficult to get a mortgage as a foreigner in Poland?
Getting a mortgage as a foreigner in Poland is more challenging than for Polish residents, but definitely achievable with proper preparation.
EU citizens have significantly better access to mortgages with terms similar to Polish nationals, while non-EU buyers face stricter requirements including higher deposits (20-30% minimum) and more extensive income documentation. Most banks require proof of regular EU-based income for the best rates.
Essential documents include employment contracts, tax returns, bank statements (usually 3-6 months), and a Polish tax number (PESEL). All foreign documents must be translated and apostilled, which adds time and cost to the application process.
Interest rates for foreigners typically range 0.5-1.5% higher than standard rates, and loan-to-value ratios are generally capped at 70-80% for non-residents. The approval process takes 4-6 weeks on average, compared to 2-3 weeks for Polish applicants.
It's something we develop in our Poland property pack.
How long does the process take to buy property in Poland, from offer to closing?
The typical property purchase process in Poland takes 8-12 weeks for EU citizens and 12-16 weeks for non-EU buyers who need permits.
The timeline breaks down into several key phases: property search and offer (1-2 weeks), preliminary contract signing and deposit payment (1 week), due diligence and documentation preparation (2-4 weeks), permit application for non-EU buyers (4-8 weeks), and final notary deed and registration (1-2 weeks).
Mortgage applications can run parallel to other processes but typically require 4-6 weeks for approval, which may extend the overall timeline if financing isn't pre-approved. Cash purchases generally complete faster since they eliminate mortgage-related delays.
Factors that can extend the timeline include incomplete documentation, property title issues, permit application delays for non-EU buyers, or complications with mortgage approval. Working with experienced professionals familiar with foreign buyer requirements helps maintain realistic timelines.
Are there specific documents I need to provide to complete the purchase of a property in Poland?
All property buyers need a valid passport or national ID, proof of funds through bank statements or mortgage pre-approval, and a preliminary sale agreement signed with the seller.
Property-specific documents include certificates confirming no outstanding debts, no pre-emption rights, and clear title status from the Land and Mortgage Register. These are typically provided by the seller but should be verified independently.
Foreign buyers require additional documentation including notarized power of attorney if acting remotely, certified translations of all foreign documents, and permits when required for non-EU buyers purchasing restricted property types.
Mortgage applicants must provide employment contracts, income statements, tax returns, and credit history information. A Polish tax number (PESEL) is essential for mortgage applications and can be obtained during the purchase process.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Poland versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
What is the average price per square meter in major Polish cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław?
As of September 2025, Warsaw commands the highest property prices with averages ranging from 12,000 to 18,000 PLN per square meter, depending on the district and property quality.
Kraków follows as the second most expensive market, with prices typically between 10,000 to 15,000 PLN per square meter. The historic city center and areas near major universities command premium prices, while outer districts offer more affordable options.
Wrocław presents the most accessible pricing among major cities, with averages ranging from 9,000 to 13,000 PLN per square meter. This city offers excellent value for money while maintaining strong economic growth and rental demand.
These prices reflect significant variations based on factors like exact location, property age, building amenities, and market conditions. Prime central locations and luxury developments can exceed these averages by 20-50%, while older properties or peripheral areas may fall below these ranges.
It's something we develop in our Poland property pack.
Can I buy property in Poland without having permanent residency or citizenship?
No residency or citizenship is required to buy property in Poland, making it one of Europe's most accessible real estate markets for foreign investors.
Property ownership doesn't automatically grant visa or residency status, but it can support future residency applications by demonstrating financial ties and commitment to Poland. EU citizens already have the right to live and work in Poland regardless of property ownership.
Non-EU buyers can purchase property as tourists or business visitors, though they must comply with permit requirements for certain property types. The ownership rights are the same regardless of your residency status once the purchase is complete.
Many investors use Polish property ownership as part of longer-term strategies to establish EU residency through investment or business activities, though the property purchase itself doesn't provide these benefits directly.
How do I find reliable real estate agents or lawyers in Poland to help with the purchase?
- Professional Associations: Look for agents who are members of the Polish Chamber of Real Estate Agents (PFRN), which ensures professional standards and ethical conduct.
- International Specialization: Choose firms that specifically advertise services for foreign buyers and can provide English-language support throughout the entire process.
- Embassy Recommendations: Many embassies maintain lists of recommended legal professionals and real estate agents experienced with expatriate clients.
- Online Reviews and References: Check Google reviews, expat forums, and international buyer testimonials to verify the reputation and track record of potential service providers.
- Remote Transaction Capability: Ensure your chosen professionals can handle remote transactions and have experience with power of attorney procedures for international buyers.
What are the most common legal issues foreigners face when buying property in Poland?
The most frequent problem is failing to secure required permits for restricted property types, particularly when non-EU buyers attempt to purchase houses with land without understanding the permit requirements.
Title and registry issues cause significant complications when buyers don't properly verify property ownership status or discover unclear land registry records after committing to purchase. Always conduct independent verification before signing preliminary agreements.
Fraudulent sellers target foreign buyers who may be unfamiliar with Polish property laws and verification procedures. This includes sellers who don't actually own the property or misrepresent property characteristics and legal status.
Misunderstanding permit requirements leads to delays and potential deal failures when buyers assume all properties can be purchased without restrictions. This particularly affects non-EU buyers who may not realize that standalone houses typically require Ministry approval.
Language barriers and inadequate translation services can result in signing agreements without fully understanding terms, conditions, or legal obligations. Always use certified translators and independent legal review for all documents.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Buying property in Poland as a foreigner is achievable with proper preparation and understanding of the requirements that vary by nationality and property type.
While the process involves more documentation and potential permits compared to domestic purchases, Poland offers competitive prices and accessible procedures that make it an attractive European real estate market for international investors.
Sources
- Dudkowiak Law Firm - Property Purchase Guide
- Immigrant Invest - Poland Real Estate Guide
- InvestRopa - Poland Real Estate for Foreigners
- CreditSpace - Buying Property Guide
- ExpatFocus - Poland Property Financing
- MortgageBlog - Deposit Requirements
- Karta Pobytu - Foreign Real Estate Purchase
- Finding Poland - Foreigners Property Guide
- Consul Law Firm - Property Purchase Guide
- Progress Holding - Mortgage Guide 2025