Setting up a Company

Your Options for Setting Up a Company in Poland (Depending on Your Status)

The form of business activity you can conduct in Poland depends on your citizenship and the legal basis of your stay:

• Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland: Generally have the same rights as Poles – they can establish and conduct any type of business without major restrictions, including the simplest form: sole proprietorship (jednoosobowa działalność gospodarcza – JDG).
• Citizens from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland:
  • Full rights (like Polish citizens): Apply if you hold, among others, a permanent residence permit, an EU long-term resident permit, refugee status, subsidiary protection, a Pole’s Card (Karta Polaka), or are a spouse of a Polish citizen with an appropriate residence permit. In this case, you can set up both a sole proprietorship and a company.
  • Limited rights: If you do not belong to the above groups, you generally cannot set up a sole proprietorship. However, you have the right to establish and conduct business in the form of capital companies (limited liability company – Sp. z o.o., joint-stock company – S.A.), limited partnership, or limited joint-stock partnership.

Important: We always thoroughly verify your individual legal situation to confirm which forms of business activity are available to you.

Choosing the Legal Form – What’s Best for You?

The decision on the legal form of your company is crucial. We will help you understand the differences:

• Sole Proprietorship (JDG): The simplest and cheapest to set up (registration in CEIDG). The drawback is full liability with personal assets for the company’s obligations. Available only to a specific group of foreigners.
• Limited Liability Company (Sp. z o.o.): The most popular among foreigners. It offers limited liability for you as a shareholder. Requires more formalities during setup (Articles of Association, min. share capital of PLN 5,000, registration in KRS) and operation (full accounting). Accessible to virtually every foreigner.
• Other Forms: Depending on your needs, we can also advise on other partnerships (registered, limited) or establishing a branch of your foreign company.

Company Registration Process Step by Step

We will guide you through the entire registration process, which usually includes:

1. Choosing the optimal legal form.
2. Preparing necessary documents: e.g., drafting the Articles of Association, finding a registered address (seat).
3. Registration in the appropriate register: CEIDG for JDG or the National Court Register (KRS) for companies. We assist with both Sp. z o.o. registration methods – the faster online S24 system and the traditional notary route.
4. Obtaining NIP and REGON numbers: Essential for business operations.
5. VAT registration (if required or beneficial).
6. Opening a corporate bank account: This can be challenging for foreigners without a Polish residence address – we offer support here too.
7. Overcoming language barriers: We act as your representative, communicating with offices and institutions in Polish.
8. Legalizing your stay: If running the company is to be the basis for your legal stay in Poland, we will also help you apply for the appropriate temporary residence permit.

Support Beyond Registration

Our assistance doesn’t end with registering the company. We also offer support in:

• Arranging a virtual office (registered address) to start.
• Connecting you with trusted accounting offices.
• Obtaining necessary industry-specific licenses and permits.

Why Trust Us When Setting Up Your Company in Poland?

As a foreigner taking your first steps in the Polish business world, you need a partner who understands your specific needs. By choosing our Law Firm, you gain:

• Combined Expertise: We know both company law and immigration law – crucial for foreign entrepreneurs.
• Overcoming Barriers: We act as your voice in dealings with Polish authorities, eliminating language and procedural problems.
• Comprehensive Service: We offer “one-stop-shop” support – from company registration to legalizing your stay.
• Saving Your Time: We handle the formalities, so you can focus on your business.
• Legal Security: We minimize the risk of errors and ensure compliance with Polish law.
• Reliable Representation: We act in your best interest.