Bank Account in Poland for Foreigners

How to open and keep a Polish bank account as a non-resident: PESEL, documents, fees, transfers — step by step.

Closing Your Polish Bank Account Before You Leave (2026)

Updated: 2026-10-01 · ~2 min read

Status: October 1, 2026. Closure timelines vary by bank — start 1–2 months before your departure date.

Why close it properly instead of just leaving

  • Dormant fees: an abandoned account can quietly cost you a few PLN every month — and if the balance goes negative, fees compound.
  • Registry hygiene: bank accounts are reported to the national register of bank accounts (NRB); a closed account keeps your record clean for future openings.
  • You will need it less after leaving: PLN transfers from abroad to a dormant PL account get flagged more easily (see AML freezes).

How to close it

  1. Start early: many banks allow closure from the app or by letter; typical completion time is 1–2 months (they must confirm no pending obligations).
  2. Move the balance first: transfer everything abroad (SEPA/SWIFT) or to your other PL account before closing — the final residual amount may be returned by mail or a one-off transfer with fees.
  3. Destroy the card and remove it from wallets/phone apps; stop automatic payments (subscriptions, rent, insurance) — redirect them to your remaining account first.
  4. Closing letter (if no app option): your full name, account number, date, signature; send by registered post or hand-deliver to a branch. Keep the receipt.

Checklist before signing

  • No overdraft or card debt (credit/debit overdraft must be settled first).
  • No linked accounts: savings, deposits, cards, standing orders — close or reassign each one.
  • IBAN still active in places that pay you (landlord, employer) until the last payment lands.
  • PESEL: it stays valid and independent of the bank account — no action needed there unless you also deregister from Poland.

If you may need Polish money again

  • Keep a minimal account: some banks allow a "dormant-free" account with 0 PLN fees if you keep it near-zero — cheaper than reopening later.
  • Family member's account + your IBAN history: if relatives live in Poland, a family account can receive occasional transfers you then spend locally.
  • Power of attorney for a family member is possible but overkill for most seasonal situations.

Affiliate slot: none planned for this article (informational).

Sources

  • National register of bank accounts (NRB) — reporting rules; as of October 1, 2026.
  • Bank closure procedures (app/letter, residual balance handling); typical practice of major Polish banks, as of October 1, 2026.