Poland
Residence procedure: Registration of residence (zameldowanie) at the local municipality
Official government websiteYour 7-step relocation checklist
- Step 1
EU Free Movement confirmed
As an EU citizen, you have the right to live and work in Poland with no visa. Bring a valid passport or national ID card.
- Step 2
Find accommodation
A local address is required for most other steps (registration, bank, tax number). Check housing costs before you move.
Cost of living in Poland - Step 3
Register your residence — Registration of residence (zameldowanie) at the local municipality
Deadline: Within 30 days of arrival. This is the local residence registration procedure required under EU Directive 2004/38/EC after your first 3 months.
Official government portal - Step 4
Get your PESEL / NIP (for self-employed)
You need a PESEL / NIP (for self-employed) to work, get paid, or open a bank account in Poland.
Apply for PESEL / NIP (for self-employed) - Step 5
Register with NFZ – Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia
Once resident and working, register with NFZ – Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia. In the meantime your EHIC covers necessary care.
NFZ – Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia portal - Step 6
Open a local bank account
Most Poland employers pay salary into a local PLN account. Bring your ID, proof of address and PESEL / NIP (for self-employed).
- Step 7
Calculate your expected net salary
See what you'll actually take home in Poland after tax and social security.
Open net salary calculator
FAQ — Moving to Poland
Information verified for 2026 from official Poland government sources. This guide applies to EU citizens under EU Directive 2004/38/EC.