Poland offers a business-friendly environment for foreign entrepreneurs. The most popular legal form for foreign-owned businesses is the limited liability company (spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością, or sp. z o.o.), which can be established with a minimum share capital of just 5,000 PLN.
Registration Process
Company registration can be completed in two ways: through the traditional notarial route or online via the S24 portal. The S24 system allows registration within 24 hours for standard company structures at a cost of approximately 350 PLN in court fees plus 100 PLN for the official gazette announcement.
Required steps include choosing a unique company name, defining the articles of association, appointing a management board, opening a corporate bank account, and registering with the National Court Register (KRS), tax office, and social insurance (ZUS).
Important Considerations
Non-EU citizens should note that owning a company in Poland does not automatically grant a work permit or residence right. A separate temporary residence permit for the purpose of conducting business activity must be obtained. However, the business activity itself serves as the basis for the residence permit application.