Company Registration in Poland

Poland has emerged as one of the most dynamic and attractive destinations for business in Central Europe. With its strategic location, growing economy, and access to the European Union market, Poland offers significant opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.

The country provides a transparent legal framework, competitive labor costs, and various incentives for foreign investors. Registering a company in Poland allows businesses to benefit from EU trade agreements and an expanding consumer base.

Types of Business Entities for Company Registration in Poland

Choosing the right business structure is key for your company’s legal, financial, and operational success in Poland. Below are the common types of entities available for registration:

1. Limited Liability Company (Sp. z o.o.)

• Most popular form of company in Poland.

• Separate legal entity with limited liability for shareholders.

• Minimum share capital requirement of PLN 5,000.

• Suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

2. Joint-Stock Company (S.A.)

• Suitable for large businesses and companies planning to list on the stock exchange.

• Requires minimum share capital of PLN 100,000.

• More complex regulatory requirements.

3. Sole Proprietorship (Jednoosobowa działalność gospodarcza)

• Owned and run by a single individual.

• Simple and low-cost to set up.

• Owner has unlimited liability.

4. Civil Law Partnership (Spółka cywilna)

• An agreement between partners to conduct business jointly.

• Partners have joint and unlimited liability.

5. Limited Partnership (Spółka komandytowa)

• Comprises general partners with unlimited liability and limited partners liable only up to their contribution.

6. Branch Office

• Foreign companies can establish a branch to operate in Poland.

• Not a separate legal entity; the parent company is liable.

Eligibility Criteria for Company Registration in Poland

To register a company in Poland, the following eligibility requirements must be fulfilled:

 1. Directors and Shareholders

• At least one director is required for most company types.

• Directors and shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities.

• Foreign nationals and foreign companies are allowed to be shareholders and directors.

• No residency requirement for directors or shareholders.

 2. Minimum Share Capital

• Limited Liability Company (Sp. z o.o.): Minimum PLN 5,000.

• Joint-Stock Company (S.A.): Minimum PLN 100,000.

• Other entities may have different capital requirements or none.

 3. Registered Office Address

• Must have a physical office address in Poland for official correspondence.

 4. Company Name

• Must be unique and comply with Polish business naming regulations.

Procedure for Company Registration in Poland

Registering a company in Poland involves several steps and requires compliance with Polish laws and regulations. Below is an overview of the typical process:

Step 1: Choose a Company Name

• Verify that the desired company name is unique and complies with naming rules.

• Name reservation can be done via the National Court Register (KRS).

Step 2: Prepare Company Documents

• Draft the Articles of Association or partnership agreement.

• Obtain shareholder and director consents.

• Deposit the required share capital in a bank account.

Step 3: Register with the National Court Register (KRS)

• Submit the application electronically or in person to KRS.

• Required documents include:

  • Articles of Association

  • Proof of share capital payment

  • Details of directors and shareholders

  • Registered office address

Step 4: Obtain REGON and Tax Identification Number (NIP)

• After registration, the company is assigned a statistical number (REGON) by the Central Statistical Office.

• The company also receives a Tax Identification Number (NIP) from the tax authorities.

Step 5: Register for VAT

• If the company’s taxable turnover exceeds a specified threshold or it intends to trade with EU countries, it must register for VAT.

Step 6: Open a Corporate Bank Account

• Open a bank account in Poland to handle business transactions.

Various Taxes Applicable to Registered Companies in Poland

Companies registered in Poland are subject to several types of taxes. Understanding these is essential for compliance and financial planning:

 1. Corporate Income Tax (CIT)

• Standard rate: 19% on taxable income.

• A reduced rate of 9% applies for small taxpayers and startups on income up to a certain threshold.

 2. Value Added Tax (VAT)

• Standard VAT rate: 23% on goods and services.

• Reduced rates of 8% and 5% apply to certain goods and services.

• VAT registration is mandatory for companies exceeding the turnover threshold or engaging in intra-EU trade.

 3. Personal Income Tax (PIT)

• Applies to sole proprietorships and partnerships where profits are taxed as personal income.

• Progressive rates up to 32%.

 4. Social Security Contributions

• Employers must contribute to social security and health insurance for their employees.

 5. Other Taxes

• Real estate tax, excise duties, and local taxes may apply depending on the business activities.

Documents Required for Company Registration in Poland

To successfully register a company in Poland, you need to prepare and submit the following documents:

 1. Articles of Association

• The company's constitutional document outlining the purpose, structure, and rules.

 2. Details of Shareholders and Directors

• Identification documents (passport or ID) and personal details.

 3. Proof of Registered Office Address

• Lease agreement or ownership proof of the office space in Poland.

 4. Proof of Share Capital Payment

• Bank statement confirming payment of the minimum share capital.

 5. Application Form for Registration with the National Court Register (KRS)

• Official form submitted electronically or in person.

 6. Tax Identification Number (NIP) and REGON Number Applications

• Application for tax and statistical identification numbers.

Benefits of Company Registration in Poland

Registering a company in Poland offers several advantages for domestic and international entrepreneurs:

 1. Access to the European Union Market

• Poland’s EU membership provides companies with seamless access to over 500 million consumers.

 2. Competitive Tax Rates

• Attractive corporate income tax rates with opportunities for incentives.

 3. Strategic Location

• Poland serves as a gateway between Western and Eastern Europe, ideal for trade and logistics.

 4. Skilled Workforce

• Availability of a well-educated and cost-effective labor pool.

 5. Growing Economy

• One of the fastest-growing economies in the EU with strong domestic demand.

 6. Strong Legal Framework

• Transparent business laws protecting investors and shareholders.

Why Choose YKG GLOBAL for Company Registration in Poland?

At YKG GLOBAL, we provide expert guidance and comprehensive support to help you establish your business in Poland with ease and confidence.

 1. Local Expertise with Global Experience

• Our team has deep knowledge of Polish corporate laws combined with international business insights.

 2. Streamlined and Efficient Process

• We manage all the legal formalities and documentation to ensure quick and hassle-free registration.

 3. End-to-End Services

• From company formation to post-registration compliance, accounting, and tax advisory, we cover all your needs.

 4. Personalized Support

• Dedicated consultants provide tailored advice and clear communication throughout the process.

 5. Transparent Pricing

• Competitive fees with no hidden charges.

 6. Trusted Partner Worldwide

• We have helped numerous clients across the globe successfully start their ventures in Poland.