Company registration in Poland for foreigners: conditions, taxes and stages of opening a business
The Republic of Poland, being a full member of the European Union, continues to be one of the most attractive countries for foreign investors. In 2023, interest in registering companies in Poland is steadily growing - both from local entrepreneurs and businessmen from other countries. However, the specifics of the procedure for opening a business may depend on the citizenship of the entrepreneur.
Conditions for foreign citizens
Citizens of EU and EEA countries enjoy the most simplified regime: they have the right to freely register individual enterprises, open branches, representative offices and partnerships without the need for additional permits. Moreover, already operating companies registered in other EU or EEA countries can provide services in Poland without mandatory local registration.
For citizens of countries outside the EU or EEA, slightly different rules apply. Business registration is possible if there are certain grounds: a valid residence permit, refugee status, temporary or additional protection, marriage to a Polish citizen or a Pole's card. In the absence of such grounds, foreign entrepreneurs can open a limited liability company (Sp. z o.o.), a joint-stock company (S.A.), a limited partnership or a branch.
Company forms and tax burden
The most popular forms of doing business in Poland remain limited liability companies (Sp. z o.o.) and joint-stock companies (S.A.). Companies are required to pay corporate tax (CIT), the standard rate of which is 19%. However, a reduced rate of 9% is provided for small businesses. In addition, dividends paid to shareholders are taxed at 19%.
Business registration procedure
Opening a company in Poland includes several mandatory steps:
- Choosing the legal form and preparing the articles of association;
- Submitting documents to the National Court Register (KRS);
- Obtaining a REGON statistical number and a NIP tax number;
- Opening a corporate bank account and contributing the share capital;
- Registration in the Social Insurance System (ZUS) and notification of the State Labor Inspectorate (PIP).
The process of opening a company in Poland requires attention to many legal nuances. In order to avoid mistakes and save time, it is recommended to seek professional support. IT-OFFSHORE offers a full range of services for business registration in Poland, including consultations, support in submitting documents and assistance in obtaining all necessary permits. With our help, the process of creating a company will be as simple and safe as possible for you.
