π§ How to Open a Bank Account in Poland as a Ukrainian 2026
Opening a bank account in Poland is one of the first steps after arriving. Without an account it is hard to receive a salary, pay by card, rent a flat or shop online. This guide explains exactly what documents you need, which banks are easiest and how to avoid common mistakes.
Who Can Open an Account in Poland?
Anyone legally residing in Poland has the right to a Basic Payment Account (PRP). This includes:
- Ukrainians with temporary protection (UKR status / UKR certificate)
- Holders of a residence card (temporary or permanent)
- Holders of a national (D) or Schengen visa
- Persons with a PESEL number
Important: A bank cannot refuse to open a PRP solely because you lack a PESEL. If a bank refuses without explanation, you can file a complaint with the KNF.
Required Documents β Table
| Situation | Required documents |
|---|---|
| UKR status (temporary protection) | Biometric passport + UKR certificate |
| Residence card (karta pobytu) | Passport + residence card |
| PESEL without registered address | Passport + residence document + PESEL confirmation |
| Full access (deposits, loans) | Passport + PESEL + residence document + address in Poland |
How to Get a PESEL Number
PESEL speeds up and simplifies access to all banking products. Ukrainians with temporary protection can get a PESEL at the local municipality office (district office in cities). You need:
- Passport or other identity document
- UKR certificate (or other residence document)
- Completed application form (available at the office or online)
Processing time: usually 1β5 working days. PESEL is issued free of charge.
Which Banks Are Best for Ukrainians?
| Bank | Without PESEL | Ukrainian support | Online | Monthly fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| mBank | β | β (helpline) | β | PLN 0 (conditional) |
| ING Bank | β | β | β | PLN 0 (conditional) |
| Alior Bank | β | β | β | PLN 0 (conditional) |
| PKO Bank Polski | Branch dependent | β | Partial | PLN 0β10 |
| Bank Pekao | Branch dependent | β | Partial | PLN 0β9 |
| Santander | β | β | β | PLN 0 (conditional) |
Step by Step: How to Open an Account Online
- Go to the bank's website β choose the account type
- Enter personal details: name, surname, date of birth, passport number
- Upload document scans: biometric passport + UKR certificate
- Video verification: a bank agent confirms your identity via video call
- Sign the agreement electronically (SMS code)
- Account is active within minutes; card delivered by courier in 3β5 working days
Total time: 15β30 minutes.
How to Send Money to Family in Ukraine
| Method | Rate | Fee | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | β market rate | 0.4β1.5% | 1β2 days |
| Revolut | β market rate | 0% (limit) / 0.5% | Seconds |
| SWIFT transfer from bank | Worse | PLN 20β50 + UA bank fee | 1β3 days |
| Western Union / MoneyGram | Worse | 3β6% | Minutes |
For regular transfers Wise and Revolut are significantly cheaper. Compare the current rate before every transfer.
Your Rights as a Foreigner in a Polish Bank
As a person legally residing in Poland:
- You have the right to a PRP β banks cannot refuse without reason
- The bank must explain any refusal in writing
- You can file a complaint with the KNF (knf.gov.pl) or the Financial Ombudsman
- You have the right to clear information β banking law requires transparency
Kodenix Capital is not a financial adviser. All content is for informational purposes only. Check current offer conditions directly with the bank.