Registration and support
of foreign companies
in Poland

Full business support: registration, licenses, bank accounts.

Free Consultation

Who Are We?

LFT Advisors is a team of international business specialists. Our lawyers, auditors, accountants, and tax consultants are involved at every stage of business operations. We provide effective support and are ready to offer solutions for any type of business.

What Do We Do?

We integrate legal, financial, and advisory services to help entrepreneurs reduce expenses and cut bureaucracy. Thanks to our “one-stop shop” approach, we handle all tasks — from company registration to opening bank accounts and obtaining licenses.

Why Do Clients Trust Us?

We provide transparent solutions tailored to the specific needs of each business. Our team supports clients at every stage, ensuring stability and security. We have deep expertise in tax and legal consulting and work with startups as well as international companies.

How Do We Work?

  • We analyze business goals and develop a strategy.
  • We study the client’s situation and shape an optimal action plan.
  • We register companies, open bank accounts, and organize licensing.
  • We offer legal support and adjust the strategy based on real results.

Why Poland Is a Smart Choice for Business

Poland holds a strategic location in the heart of Europe, offering beneficial logistics routes for trade within the EU and beyond. Its well-developed transportation infrastructure enables fast and efficient delivery by sea, road, and rail. As a result, Polish companies maintain strong business ties with Germany, France, the Czech Republic, and the Baltic states.

Request a commercial offer
Андрей Сергеевич

The country offers clear and stable business regulations that remain consistent year over year. This predictability helps businesses plan for the long term while minimizing risks related to legislative changes. Poland also features a flexible labor market, making it easy to find workers for both manual tasks and high-tech sectors such as IT, finance, and logistics.

A range of investment support programs are available, including tax incentives, grants, and funding for manufacturing and innovation. These programs are particularly beneficial for businesses that create new jobs or develop cutting-edge products.

Benefits of Company Registration in Poland

  • Quick and remote setup: Businesses can register online via the S24 platform without physical presence. Sp. z o.o. (limited liability company) formation takes 5–7 business days on average, eliminating travel costs and geographical limitations.
  • Flexible legal structures: Entrepreneurs can choose from several forms depending on the scale of their business — from sole proprietorships (JDG) for freelancers to joint-stock companies (S.A.) for investors. This ensures optimal alignment with business goals and tax strategies.
  • Clear licensing procedures: Regulated sectors like finance, logistics, and energy follow transparent rules for obtaining licenses, with no hidden requirements.
  • Direct access to the EU market: A Polish legal entity provides direct access to over 450 million consumers and the ability to operate under EU standards without extra certifications. This simplifies both export and import operations.
  • Public support and funding: Startups and SMEs benefit from grants, low-interest loans, and innovation subsidies. Agencies like PARP cover up to 70% of expenses for innovation and market expansion.
  • No restrictions for foreign founders: Companies in Poland can be owned by individuals or legal entities from any country, including non-EU nations. This allows entrepreneurs to structure their businesses freely.
  • Public registers ensure transparency: Information about companies is available in the National Court Register (KRS) and the Register of Beneficial Owners (CRBR), allowing for reliable background checks of partners and stakeholders.
  • Bank account setup made easy: Business accounts in PLN, EUR, and USD can be opened within 5–10 days after registration. Polish banks offer SWIFT, SEPA, and multicurrency support for international transactions.

Company Registration Algorithm in Poland

1. Choosing the Company Type: Sp. z o.o., S.A., JDG

The first step is to select the appropriate legal form of business. This decision impacts taxation, liability, minimum capital requirements, and the ability to work with partners. The most common types in Poland are:

Spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością (Sp. z o.o.)

This is the Polish equivalent of a Limited Liability Company (LLC), widely used by small and medium-sized businesses. It fits industries like trade, IT, logistics, consulting, manufacturing, and export.

Key features:

Founders can be individuals or legal entities from any country.

Minimum share capital: 5,000 PLN, payable in cash or in-kind.

Founders are not personally liable for company debts — liability is limited to the share capital.

Simplified online registration is available via the S24 platform.

Corporate tax rate: 9% for annual income up to 2 million EUR.

Sp. z o.o. is suitable for stable operations, EU partnerships, and tax optimization strategies.

Spółka Akcyjna (S.A.)

This form is intended for large-scale projects, investor attraction, and stock exchange listings. It’s more complex and costly to administer, ideal for larger enterprises.

Key features:

  • Minimum share capital: 100,000 PLN.
  • Ability to issue shares and raise investment through equity sales.
  • Public transparency: regular financial reporting and auditing required.
  • Suitable for financial institutions, venture-funded startups, and holding companies.
  • Strict governance structure: requires a board of directors and a supervisory board.

S.A. is chosen by companies aiming to attract significant capital, expand through public offerings, or operate in high-risk sectors.

Jednoosobowa Działalność Gospodarcza (JDG)

This is a sole proprietorship format. It’s best for self-employed individuals and freelancers offering services independently.

Key features:

  • The owner is fully liable for business obligations with personal assets.
  • No minimum capital requirement.
  • Simplified accounting procedures.
  • Option to choose flat tax at 19% or simplified schemes based on income level.
  • Online registration available via the CEIDG platform.

JDG fits individuals working solo without co-founders or significant financial turnover or risks. It’s popular among IT professionals, consultants, tradespeople, drivers, and real estate agents.

2. Preparation of the Articles of Association and Document Package

After choosing the company form, the next key step is drafting the articles of association and preparing the required documents for registration. This isn’t just a formality — it’s the foundation that defines how the business operates and regulates relationships between owners, managers, and contractors.

Articles of Association (Umowa Spółki or Statut)

This is the primary document for both Sp. z o.o. and S.A., which outlines the core conditions of business operations. It must be written in Polish and comply with local legal requirements. Errors or inaccuracies can result in a registration refusal or legal complications down the line.

The articles must include:

  • Company name. It must be unique and include the legal form (e.g., “ABC Solutions Sp. z o.o.”).
  • Registered address. This can be an office, coworking space, or even a virtual office address. The right to use the premises must be confirmed.
  • Business activities. These must be listed using the PKD (Polska Klasyfikacja Działalności) classification system, allowing the company to perform specified activities.
  • Share capital. A minimum of 5,000 PLN is required for Sp. z o.o., and at least 100,000 PLN for S.A.
  • Ownership structure. Indicates who owns what percentage of the company.
  • Decision-making procedures. Details how decisions are made and which require unanimity or a majority.
  • Governing bodies. Identifies who the director is, whether there’s a supervisory board, and if more than one signature is required to execute transactions.

A well-prepared statute helps prevent conflicts and simplifies cooperation with banks, partners, and regulators.

Other Required Documents

In addition to the articles, the following documents are needed for registration:

Passports of founders and directors. ID verification for each company participant. If any are legal entities, their founding documents must be provided.

Proof of company address. This can be a lease agreement, address assignment contract, or a declaration from the property owner.

Statement of no restrictions on business activity. Each founder must confirm they’re not subject to sanctions or legal limitations.

Beneficial ownership disclosure. Information about individuals controlling more than 25% of the company. This is published in the CRBR register.

Company contact details. A phone number and email for official communication.

If registering through the S24 system, founders and directors will need a Polish qualified electronic signature or a trusted ePUAP profile.

Important Notes

  • All documents must be in Polish. If the founders are foreign nationals, translations and possibly an apostille may be required.
  • The articles can be prepared electronically via the S24 platform, but this requires use of a standard template without room for custom clauses. For greater flexibility, working with a notary is recommended.

The completed documentation package forms the basis for company registration, opening bank accounts, and tax registration.

3. Choosing a Legal Address and Signing the Lease Agreement

A legal address is a mandatory requirement for a company in Poland. Without it, registration in the KRS registry, opening a bank account, and receiving official correspondence from government bodies are impossible. Even if the business operates online, a legal address is needed to register the office’s location.

What is a Legal Address?

It is the actual place where the company is registered and where documents from the tax office, courts, funds, and counterparties are sent. It is listed in the KRS extract, used for tax reporting, and for agreements with partners.

Options for a Legal Address:

  • Office or Commercial Space Rental
    This is the traditional option for companies with a physical presence. It is suitable for businesses that plan to have a real office, warehouse, or store.
  • Co-working Space
    An affordable option for startups and small teams. The co-working address is used as the legal address, and mail reception services are included in the rent.
  • Virtual Office (Wirtualne Biuro)
    An optimal choice for online businesses, IT companies, or consultancies. The cost starts from 50 PLN per month, and the company gets a legal address, plus mail processing services.
  • Partners’ or Trusted Individuals’ Address
    Possible if someone among your contacts or partners is willing to provide their commercial address under a lease agreement.

Lease Agreement for a Legal Address

To confirm the right to use the address, a lease agreement (Umowa Najmu) or an address provision agreement (Umowa Udostępnienia Adresu) is required.

This is a standard legal document, and it should include:

  • Full details of the property owner and the tenant.
  • Description of the leased property and its intended use (for example, for the operation of a Sp. z o.o.).
  • The address of the property that will serve as the company’s legal address.
  • The term of the lease and the conditions for its renewal.
  • The lease price and payment terms.
  • Signatures of both parties with the signing date.

Without this agreement, company registration is impossible. It may also be requested by the bank, notary, or tax authority during checks.

Important Nuances

The address must be real and must have a postal service for receiving mail. Using fake addresses could lead to fines and the cancellation of registration.

For registration via the S24 platform, address details should be prepared in advance as they will be entered into the electronic application.

If the company changes its legal address after registration, it must update the KRS, CRBR, and notify the bank. This is a paid procedure.

A legal address is not just a formality but a real tool for the stable operation of a business, so choosing it should be done without compromise.

4. Opening a Bank Account

A bank account in Poland is necessary for transactions with clients, suppliers, paying salaries, paying taxes, and conducting any financial operations. Without an account, a Sp. z o.o., S.A., or JDG cannot operate legally.

How to Choose a Bank

There are over 30 banks in Poland that offer business accounts. The most popular ones among entrepreneurs are:

  • mBank — convenient online banking, quick account opening.
  • PKO Bank Polski — the largest bank in the country, good reputation, and English support.
  • Santander Bank Polska — favorable rates for small businesses.
  • ING Bank Śląski — simple interface, integration possibilities with accounting systems.

When choosing a bank, attention is paid to the service fees, international transfer commissions, online services, and support for foreign clients.

Can You Open an Account Remotely?

NO, an account in a Polish bank can only be opened in person.

Documents Required

  • KRS extract confirming the company’s registration.
  • NIP and REGON of the company.
  • Articles of Association (Umowa Spółki) with signatures from all founders.
  • Passport or residence card of the owners and directors.
  • Lease agreement for the legal address.

How the Account Opening Process Works

  • An application is submitted online or during a visit to the bank branch.
  • The bank conducts identity verification, checks the company documents, and verifies the source of funds.
  • The account opening agreement is signed.
  • The account is activated within 1-5 working days, and the account details can be used for business operations.

Important Points

  • The bank may refuse to open an account without providing a reason, especially if the founders are from high-risk countries.
  • The account details must be entered into the tax database (CEIDG or KRS).
  • All transactions undergo financial monitoring, so it is essential to conduct transparent operations and submit reports on time.

A bank account is the financial foundation of a business, so it should be chosen strategically, considering the load and expenses right from the start.

5. Registration in KRS or CEIDG

After preparing the documents, choosing an address, and opening a bank account, the next step is the official registration of the business in the state registers of Poland. This is what grants the company its legal status and allows it to operate.

KRS and CEIDG — What’s the Difference?

KRS (Krajowy Rejestr Sądowy)

National Court Register, where data on legal entities are recorded. In KRS, Sp. z o.o., S.A., and other companies are registered.

CEIDG (Centralna Ewidencja i Informacja o Działalności Gospodarczej)

Central Register and Information on Business Activity. CEIDG is used to register only sole proprietors (JDG).

The choice of register depends on the type of company selected in the first step.

How Registration in KRS Works

  • Submit the application through the S24 portal or in person at the court.
  • Additional documents include: articles of association, application forms, address confirmation, documents on contributions to the share capital.
  • Payment of the state fee (350-600 PLN depending on the method of submission).
  • Waiting for the court’s decision — usually up to 7 working days.

Once the company is entered into the KRS, it receives a unique KRS number, which is used in all official documents and contracts.

How Registration in CEIDG Works

  • Submit the online application via the CEIDG website or in person at the municipal office.
  • Fill out the form indicating the type of activity, address, and tax details.
  • Free registration — no state fee is charged.
  • Registration confirmation is received immediately after processing the application.

A JDG is registered quickly — in one day, if all the data is correct.

Required Data for Registration

  • Company name.
  • Legal address.
  • Founders’ or entrepreneur’s details.
  • Share capital amount (for Sp. z o.o. — from 5,000 PLN).
  • Type of business activity according to the PKD classification.
  • Tax numbers of the founders.
  • Bank account.

What Happens After Registration

Once the data is entered into KRS or CEIDG, the company automatically receives:

NIP

Tax number.

REGON

Statistical registry number.

PESEL

(if the entrepreneur is an individual without Polish citizenship).

These numbers are required for tax purposes, statistical reports, and other government agencies.

Important Points

  • All company data becomes public and is available for verification in the registers.
  • When changing the address, type of activity, or composition of founders, updates must be submitted to KRS or CEIDG.
  • Without registration in KRS or CEIDG, the business activity is considered illegal, even if all other documents are in order.

This step is crucial for launching a business. It is after this that the company gains the right to sign contracts, hire staff, and carry out operations.

We prepare documents and help you with registration – without mistakes and unnecessary problems!

We will help you choose the right form (JDG, Sp. z o.o. or S.A.), prepare the articles of association, applications, submit them online or to the court, and explain each step.

Main taxes in Poland

Levels, rates and requirements for businesses and individuals.

Learn More

Company reporting in Poland

Types of reporting, filing deadlines and requirements for companies.

Learn More

Potential Risks and Ways to Avoid Them When Starting a Business in Poland

Starting a business in Poland can be a beneficial step for entrepreneurs, but, like any business, there are potential risks. Let’s look at the main ones and ways to avoid them.

Legal and Regulatory Risks

Problems may arise due to:

  1. Changes in tax policy. Poland frequently updates tax laws and regulations, which may lead to unexpected costs.
  2. Labor rules. The specifics of labor contracts, employee settlements, and salary payments must comply with local requirements.

How to avoid:

  • Constantly monitor changes in legislation.
  • Involve local lawyers and accountants for consulting on taxes and labor contracts.
  • Use automated systems for tax and salary accounting.

Financial Risks

Problems may arise due to:

  1. Lack of precise financial planning. Without a clear financial plan, it’s easy to underestimate expenses or forecast insufficient profit.
  2. Currency fluctuations. For businesses dealing with international clients or suppliers, currency fluctuations can be a significant risk factor.

How to avoid:

  • Carefully plan expenses, creating several financial scenarios.
  • Use currency risk hedging through contracts or financial instruments.
  • Ensure sufficient start-up capital to cover unforeseen expenses.

Market and Competition Risks

Possible problems:

  1. Underestimating the competition. New entrepreneurs often underestimate competition in the Polish market, especially in sectors with established players.
  2. Incorrect choice of target audience. A poor understanding of consumer needs can lead to the failure of a product or service.

How to avoid:

  • Conduct detailed market analysis before launching the business.
  • Identify unique competitive advantages and focus on them.
  • Conduct marketing research and regularly test the demand for the product or service.

Logistical and Operational Risks

Possible problems:

  1. Suppliers not meeting requirements. Poland has many suppliers, but not all of them can provide reliable and high-quality services.
  2. Non-optimized operational processes. Without properly set up internal processes, the company may face chaos in fulfilling orders, product delivery, and customer communication.

How to avoid:

  • Establish cooperation with trusted suppliers and partners.
  • Set clear internal processes and use business management systems (CRM, ERP).
  • Invest in automation and digitalization of the business to improve efficiency.

Cultural and Social Risks

Possible problems:

  1. Misunderstanding Polish culture. Violating etiquette or not matching the local business style may alienate clients or partners.
  2. Difficulties in managing staff. Differences in management styles can lead to ineffective team performance.

How to avoid:

  • Familiarize yourself with Polish business cultures and traditions.
  • Hire local consultants or managers for a better understanding of the market.
  • Carefully select staff, taking into account the specifics of local conditions.

Opening a company in Poland requires attention to detail.

Proper preparation and constant risk management are the keys to a smooth start and a project that starts to make results.

Taking care of our customers is our top priority