Poland Digital Nomad Visa
In this article
With the rising demand for flexible work arrangements, countries worldwide
recognize the value of attracting digital nomads and offer digital nomad visas
to accommodate this growing trend. Poland has gained significant attention in
recent years as more individuals embrace remote work and the digital nomad
lifestyle in the country.
Photo by Elijah G on Unsplash
The country is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and affordable living
costs. Although Poland has no actual digital nomad visa, it has a visa alternative
that can serve as a Poland Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers. This way, they
can experience the charm of Poland while pursuing their professional endeavors.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about this visa, including
its requirements, eligibility criteria, required documents, and the benefits of living
in Poland as a digital nomad. Let’s begin!.
Is There a Digital Nomad Visa for Poland?
If you want to settle in Poland as a third-country citizen outside the European Union
(EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA), you must get a Polish job first. Even though
you can travel to the country with a Schengen visa, you cannot work with a tourist visa
or during your visa-free stay there. Poland does not have an official digital nomad visa
program for foreign remote workers at this time of writing.
Working as a Digital Nomad if You're an EU or EEA Citizen
If you are an EU or EEA citizen, you can work freely in the country as a digital
nomad. However, if you want to live and work for three months in Poland, you must
register your residence at the closest local registration hall.
Poland Digital Nomad Visa Alternatives
Since there's no digital nomad visa scheme in Poland, explain the alternatives for
persons who want to work remotely from this country.
Since there is no digital nomad visa for foreign citizens in Poland, there are alternatives
for you to work remotely in Poland. We have explained them below:
The Poland Freelance Visa (Zezwolenie na Prowadzenie Działalności Gospodarczej):
The Poland Freelance visa allows you to work as a freelancer in Poland. Although not
specifically designed for digital nomads, it can be viable. You must have Polish clients
or contracts to demonstrate your ability to generate income locally to obtain this visa.
Also, you must meet specific requirements (we will discuss them later in this article).
You can apply for the Poland Freelance Visa in a few steps:
- The first step is to obtain a NIP (Numer Identyfikacji Podatkowej) tax identification number. You can get it at the local tax office (Urząd Skarbowy), where you plan to operate.
- Next, you gather every necessary document, including a completed application form, proof of professional qualifications, evidence of financial resources, and health insurance coverage.
- Finally, you submit your visa application to the appropriate authorities, like the Voivodeship Office or the local Polish consulate or embassy.
There are three types of contracts available for freelancers in Poland. They include:
- Umowa zlecenie (contract of mandate) – It's an agreement between freelancers and their employers in Poland.
- B2B contract – It's an agreement between a freelancer and a client.
- Umowa o dzieło (contract for a specific task) – It's an agreement by which a freelancer will be paid based on the task being completed, not for the hours they have worked.
The Work Visa
You can apply for a work visa in Poland if you get a job with a Polish employer or
contract with a Polish company. This option requires that you have an employment
offer and follow the regular work permit procedures. It may only be suitable if
you have a direct connection to a Polish employer.
The Business Visa
You can apply for a business visa if you plan to establish your business in Poland. The
Business visa allows you to run your company and work remotely as a business owner.
However, it entails fulfilling specific requirements, including demonstrating the
viability of your business plan and having sufficient financial resources.
Eligibility Requirements for Poland Freelance Visa
You need to meet these requirements to get a Poland freelance visa:
- You must have a PESEL (Powszechny Elektroniczny System Ewidencji Ludności) number. It is the country's national identification number.
- You must have the NIP (Tax Identification) number.
- You must have the REGON (Rejestr Gospodarki Narodowej) number. It is a 9-digit statistical identification number for businesses and freelancers.
- You must have CEIDG (Centralny Ewidencja i Informacja o Działalności Gospodarczej) Registration. The essence of the registration is to record your economic activities in the country.
- You must have a Polish bank account.
- You must have evidence of your accommodation in Poland.
- You must have evidence of sufficient financial means.
- You must have an employment contract.
Duration and Renewal
The Polish freelance visa stays valid for two years and is renewable. However,
it is essential to renew it before it expires.
The renewal process typically involves submitting updated documentation and
demonstrating that you continue to meet the requirements for self-employment.
See the steps below:
- 1. Gather Updated Documents: You must provide updated documents like a revised business plan, proof of ongoing business activity, and financial statements.
- 2. Submit Your Application: You must submit a renewal application to the authorities, typically the local Voivodship Office (Urząd Wojewódzki).
- 3. Attend the Interview and Pay Fees: The interview may involve discussing your business activities and verifying the accuracy of the information provided in your application. Also, you will need to pay the necessary fees.
Working in Poland as a Digital Nomad
See some vital notes about working and tax regulations in Poland.
Regulations on Remote Work in Poland
Poland's regulations on remote work allow you to work conveniently in the country
as an employee. Upon the specific request of an employee, such an employee can
perform remote work occasionally, but the total number of remote work days
allowed within a single calendar year should not exceed 24. Also, every employer
must provide their employees with the necessary technical resources to perform
their roles optimally.
Are Digital Nomads Subject to Tax?
You must register for taxation once you stay in Poland for up to 183 days. As a Polish
resident taxpayer, you are required to pay taxes on your global income, taking into
account any relevant double tax treaties.
However, as a non-resident, you are only taxed on income from work you perform within
Poland's borders. If you are a Polish taxpayer with qualifying expenses within the
proper limits during the financial year, your income tax can be reduced as the law outlines.
Considerations for Remote Workers Moving to Poland
You have many opportunities as a remote worker moving to Poland. Gladly enough, the
country has a low cost of living compared to other European countries, which has
increased the digital nomad influx significantly over the years.
However, before you move to Poland as a digital nomad, you should consider the following:
- If you have enough resources to keep you beyond the minimum living requirements, you do not need to survive on social welfare.
- Your intended stay period in the country and the tax regulations for remote workers who stay more than 183 days (and become tax residents) in Poland.
- The cost of living in the country, including rent, transportation, and utility.
- The ease of your access to health care. As an EU/EEA citizen, you may access healthcare coverage through your EHIC. However, you may need private health insurance as a third-country national.
- The country's time Zone. Poland is in the Central European Time Zone (CET). Consider how the time difference may impact your schedule and communication if your work requires coordination with colleagues or clients in different time zones.
It is important to note that Poland is outside the Eurozone, so its official currency
is the Polish zloty (PLN). While the minimum Polish wage pegs at 3,010 PLN
(about 800 EUR) monthly, you should aim to earn up to 7,560 PLN (around 1,800 EUR)
for your comfort.
Entry Requirements: Is ETIAS Mandatory?
Starting from November 2023, the European Travel Information and Authorization
System also known as
ETIAS will become mandatory to visit Poland
for travelers from visa-free countries.
The ETIAS application process is expected to be quick and straightforward, involving
completing an online form and a small fee payment. Once approved, the
ETIAS will be valid for multiple short-term hassle-free visits to
Poland and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within 180 days.
Living in Poland as a Digital Nomad
What benefits does living and working in Poland bring? See what it is like to
live and work in the country and the benefits you get.
Why Choose Poland?
These are the benefits of living in Poland and working remotely:
- Saving on expenses and food
- High standard of living and vibrant environment
- High standard of transportation and less commute time
- Poland is a safe country with one of the lowest crime rates in Europe
- A comfortable working environment that yields high efficiency in the execution of tasks
- Entitlement to at least 20 days of paid annual leave.
- Female employees can get 20 weeks of maternity leave after giving birth.
- Reliable internet and co-working spaces.
Cost of Living
The living costs in Poland can vary depending on the city or region, but overall,
it is known for its affordability compared to many other European countries. In cities
like Warsaw or Wroclaw, the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center
ranges from 2,500 to 3,900 PLN (548.63 - 855.87 Euros) monthly. Renting outside the city
center or in smaller towns is more affordable, with monthly prices ranging from
1,800 to 3,400 PLN (395.01 - 746.14 Euros).
Grocery costs in Poland are generally reasonable. A weekly food budget for one person can
range from 150 to 300 PLN (32.92 - 65.84 Euros), depending on your personal preferences
and dietary choices. Cooking at home and shopping at local markets can help save more money.
However, if you love to eat out, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around 20-50
PLN (4.39 - 10.97 Euros), while a three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant
can range from 80 to 170 PLN (17.56 - 37.31 Euros).
Utilities like electricity, heating, water, and garbage disposal can vary depending on
the size of the apartment and usage. On average, monthly utility bills for a small
apartment can range from 400 to 1000 PLN (87.78 - 219.45 Euros). You can get a single
ticket for a local bus, tram, or metro ride, typically for around 3-5 PLN (0.66 - 1.10 Euros).
Monthly passes for unlimited travel within a city can range from 80 to 150 PLN
(17.56 - 32.92 Euros), depending on the location.
The Best Destinations for Remote Workers
Poland offers several cities and destinations that are popular among digital nomads.
Here are a few top destinations worth considering:
- 1. Warsaw: Warsaw combines a bustling urban atmosphere with a rich history and vibrant startup scene. It offers a diverse range of cultural and recreational activities. The city's international community and networking opportunities make it an attractive destination for digital nomads.
- 2. Krakow: Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant arts scene, Krakow offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Krakow's central location makes it a great base for exploring other parts of Poland and Central Europe.
- 3. Wroclaw: Wroclaw is a picturesque city with a laid-back atmosphere, colorful architecture, and a thriving student population. It has a growing tech and startup ecosystem, providing opportunities for networking and collaboration.
- 4. Gdansk: Situated on the Baltic Sea coast, Gdansk offers a blend of maritime history, cultural heritage, and a growing digital nomad scene. The city's charming old town, beautiful beaches, and proximity to nature make it an appealing destination for those seeking work-life balance.
- 5. Poznan: Poznan is a dynamic city with a rich history and a thriving business environment. The city's vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and affordable cost of living make it an appealing destination for digital nomads looking to immerse themselves in a lively and welcoming community.
Other EU Countries With Digital Nomad Visas You May Like
Several
European countries have introduced digital nomad visa programs to
attract remote workers. Here are the top five EU countries with digital nomad
visa options:
- 1. Croatia: The Croatia digital nomad visa, also known as the Croatian Digital Nomad Residence Permit, provides an opportunity to live and work in the stunning Mediterranean country.
- 2. Romania: Romania's digital nomad visa, also known as the Temporary Residence Permit for Remote Workers, digital nomads to live and work in Romania for up to one year. The country boasts a rapidly growing tech scene, affordable living costs, and reliable internet infrastructure.
- 3. Greece: Greece introduced a digital nomad visa called the Greek Digital Nomad Visa. Greece's digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live and work for up to one year.
- 4. Estonia: Estonia's digital nomad visa enables remote workers to live and work in the country for up to a year. It offers a straightforward application process and provides access to Estonia's digital infrastructure and e-services.
- 5. Germany: Germany has introduced the Freelancer Visa. It is technically a new digital nomad visa that allows self-employed individuals and freelancers to live and work in the country. The visa suits digital nomads to tap into Germany's thriving startup scene and business opportunities.
The Summary
While Poland does not exactly have a digital nomad visa for remote workers and digital
nomads, it offers a Freelance visa program. The freelance visa program, among others,
provides flexibility and convenience as a digital nomad, allowing you to enjoy the
rich cultural heritage and vibrant digital community that Poland has to offer.
Whether you are attracted to the beautiful cities, historic landmarks, thriving coworking
spaces, or the warm hospitality of the Polish people, the Poland Freelance Visa opens
doors to an enriching and fulfilling experience.
More impressively, Poland has a low cost and high standard of living compared to
other European countries.
Digital Nomad Visa in Poland FAQs
Does Poland offer a digital nomad visa?
Poland does not offer a digital nomad visa. However, there are alternative visas for you in the country as a digital nomad.Does Poland have a freelance visa?
Yes, Poland has a freelance visa allowing you to live and work as a digital nomad for up to two years. You can renew the passport before it expires.What are the benefits of living in Poland as a digital nomad?
Poland offers an impressive standard of living and a relatively low cost of living. While you will enjoy the country's interesting social life, you are also entitled to at least 20 days of annual leave.
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