🇧 Best Bank Deposits in Poland 2026 — Guide for Ukrainians and Foreigners

In 2026, the best fixed-term deposits in Poland offer up to 5.5–6.0% gross per year (indicative figures — rates change with decisions of Poland's Monetary Policy Council). This is significantly above inflation and better than most savings accounts. This guide explains how to choose a deposit, what documents are needed, and what taxes apply.

How Does a Bank Deposit Work in Poland?

A fixed-term deposit (lokata) is an agreement with a bank: you deposit money for a set period (e.g. 3 or 12 months), and the bank guarantees a fixed interest rate for the entire period.

Key concepts:

• Gross rate — the figure advertised, before tax
• Belka Tax (19%) — automatically deducted by the bank from interest income
• Net rate — what you actually receive (gross × 0.81)
• BFG — Polish Bank Guarantee Fund protects deposits up to €100,000 per person

💡 Example: deposit at 6.5% gross for 12 months, amount 10,000 PLN → gross interest 650 PLN → tax 123.50 PLN → net income: 526.50 PLN

TOP 5 Deposits in Poland 2026

⚠️ Important: Deposit rates change regularly with decisions of Poland's Monetary Policy Council. The figures below are indicative. Always check the current ranking at kodenixcapital.com/lokaty before opening a deposit.

Gross rates — indicative, based on market data May 2026. Always verify current offers directly at the bank or at kodenixcapital.com/lokaty.

Can a Ukrainian Open a Deposit in Poland?

Yes — but the bank usually requires:

1. PESEL — Poland's 11-digit identification number (see below how to get one)
2. Passport or Ukrainian ID card
3. Current account (ROR) at the same bank — most banks won't open a deposit without an account
4. Proof of residence — Karta Pobytu (residence card), visa, or UKR status confirmation

💡 UKR status holders (temporary protection) can open an account and deposit at many banks with just a passport and PESEL, without a residence card.

How to Get a PESEL

In person at the local council office (Urząd Gminy, colloquially: "gmina"):

1. Visit with your passport and proof of residence
2. Fill in the address registration form
3. PESEL is issued within 1–3 working days (sometimes immediately)

Belka Tax — How It Works

Poland withholds a 19% tax on interest income (colloquially: "podatek Belki"). The good news: the bank does this automatically — you don't need to declare it in your annual PIT tax return.

Net income examples:

• 10,000 PLN × 6.0% × 0.81 = 486 PLN net
• 20,000 PLN × 5.5% × 0.81 = 891 PLN net
• 50,000 PLN × 6.7% × 0.81 = 2,713.50 PLN net

Deposit vs Savings Account — Which to Choose?

Belka Tax and Double Taxation — What Matters

Polish banks automatically withhold 19% Belka Tax — this cannot be avoided. But if you have ties to Ukraine, the question arises: do you need to pay again in Ukraine?

This depends on your tax residency status:

• If your centre of life (work, family, assets) is in Poland and you spend more than 183 days per year here → you are a Polish tax resident and pay only in Poland.
• If you maintain strong ties with Ukraine → Poland and Ukraine have a double taxation treaty. Tax paid in Poland can be credited against your Ukrainian obligations.

💡 If you're unsure about your status — consult a tax advisor, especially if you have income or savings in both countries.

📖 More details: Belka Tax — Complete Guide for Ukrainians

Summary

Bank deposits in Poland 2026 are a safe way to grow your savings. Ukrainians and other foreigners can fully use the Polish banking system after obtaining a PESEL and opening a current account.

Remember: rates change — always check current offers before opening a deposit.

👉 Current deposit ranking: [kodenixcapital.com/lokaty](https:/