Welcome to Living in Poland – Your Trusted Guide to a New Life Abroad
🇵🇱 Living in Poland
Whether you’re moving to Poland for a new job, to be closer to family, to enjoy your retirement, or just to start fresh, we’re here to help you every step of the way. We get it—relocating to a new country can be exciting, confusing, and sometimes just plain overwhelming. That’s why we created this site: to share honest, down-to-earth advice from people who’ve been through it all, figured things out (eventually), and picked up plenty of helpful tips—and a few good stories—along the way.
Poland is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets—an increasingly popular destination for newcomers, digital nomads, and families in search of a better work-life balance. It offers the perfect blend of vibrant, modern cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław—brimming with culture, innovation, and nightlife—alongside stunning natural escapes such as the Tatra Mountains and the Masurian Lake District. With a cost of living noticeably lower than in much of Western Europe, excellent healthcare, reliable infrastructure, and a strong sense of safety, Poland is quickly earning its place on the global relocation map.
Thanks to its central location in Europe, Poland is also a brilliant base for travel, with easy connections to the rest of the continent. But it’s not just the logistics that make it appealing—it’s the people. Friendly, resourceful, and proud of their traditions, Poles are generally welcoming to newcomers, especially if you make a little effort with the language and local customs.
👉 Facing the Realities of Relocation
Of course, no international move comes without its hurdles. From visa applications & registering your residency to finding somewhere to live, navigating the education system, setting up a bank account, or figuring out how to get your car registered—there are a hundred little details that can either be smooth sailing or a total nightmare, depending on how well prepared you are.
And let’s not forget the quirks—like the mysterious opening hours of certain shops, the occasional bureaucratic hiccup, or the dreaded paper form that must be printed, signed in blue ink, and submitted in triplicate to an office that only opens on alternate Tuesdays.
🤝That’s where we come in
Living in Poland was created to make your move—and your life here—easier. No fluff, no corporate nonsense. Just straight-talking, genuinely helpful guidance to help you settle in, find your feet, and start enjoying everything Poland has to offer. Whether you’re still in the planning phase or already unpacking boxes in your new flat, you’ll find answers to your questions, insights from fellow new residents, and practical advice to help you avoid the common pitfalls.
So grab a coffee, take a look around, and start your journey to living in Poland with confidence.
👉 Continue to explore this page to get started, or head directly to our Categories page to find exactly what you’re looking for.
✅ What You’ll Find on Living in Poland
Our goal is simple: to give you clear, honest answers to the real questions people have when relocating to and living in Poland.
👋 Ready to Get Started?
We know what it’s like to feel lost in a new country. That’s why Living in Poland is more than just a blog—it’s a growing community of people helping each other find their way, one practical step at a time.
Start with the basics, explore the categories, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. We’re here to help.
Welcome to Poland. Welcome home.
🏛️ Legal Essentials & Financial Matters
Residency, Visas & Work Permits – Whether you’re planning to move to Poland for work, to be with family, or simply for a change of pace, understanding the rules is essential.💡Complete guide to living and working legally in Poland
Banking & Tax – From opening a bank account and choosing the right bank, to managing your finances and making international transfers, this guide covers everything you need to know to navigate banking in Poland with confidence. With a growing number of modern banking options and services available in English, managing your money in Poland is easier than ever.💡Practical tips for British immigrants managing UK finances from overseas
💼 Working in Poland: Employment & Work Permits
Poland has become an increasingly attractive place for foreigners to live and work. But navigating the Polish employment system as a foreign national—especially one working remotely—can be complex.
Work Permit Delays & Staying in Poland
A common concern—what happens when your work permit expires before your new one is issued?
Can I Stay in Poland After My Visa Expires?
Yes, but be mindful of the 90-day grace period allowed within the Schengen zone. You’ll also likely need to apply for a new visa in London.
How to Handle Work Permit Delays
Temporary residency might be an option, but if you prefer mobility, returning to the UK for a new visa could be the solution.
👉 Working in Poland: Employment & Work Permits for Foreigners
🧳 Practical Tips from Real Residents
We don’t just share official processes—we share what it’s really like to live here.
- 🗣️ Learn some Polish – Even a few words go a long way when dealing with offices or ordering pierogi.
- 👥 Join expat Facebook groups – You’ll find everything from housing advice to where to get Marmite.
- ⏳ Expect long waits – Whether it’s a visa or a residency card, patience is your best ally.
- 📄 Get used to paper forms – Yes, Poland has online services. No, they’re not always used.
💡 Moving with children? Find out what to expect from Polish schools
🚗 Life on the Roads
If you’re a Brit living in Poland, chances are you’ve wondered whether you can keep cruising around with your UK licence forever. Spoiler alert: you can’t. But don’t panic — exchanging your UK driving licence for a Polish one is a surprisingly straightforward process… if you know what to expect. In this guide, we’ll take you through the entire journey: what you need, where to go, how long it takes, and even what it’s like driving in Poland. Whether you’re planning a long-term stay or already settled here, this guide will help you swap your licence with ease — and maybe even a smile.
🔧 Step-by-step guide to exchanging your licence
🛍️ Everyday Life
From weird address systems (yes, two houses on the same street can have the same number) to Lidl’s legendary British Week, we cover the quirks and comforts that make up daily life.
Read: A British Immigrant’s Guide to the Wonderfully Weird World of Polish Living
🏡 Housing & Property
So, you’ve fallen in love with Poland – the pierogi, the peaceful countryside, the painfully strong vodka – and you’re thinking, “Why not put down roots here?” Buying property in Poland is entirely possible for foreigners, but there are a few hoops to jump through, a bit of red tape, and a whole lot of translating.
Want to buy a home in Poland? Here’s what you need to know:
- 🏦 UK banks don’t finance Polish properties.
- 💰 Polish mortgages often require earnings in PLN.
- ⚠️ Some expats use personal loans from the UK to buy outright—but this carries risk.
🔑 Full guide to buying property in Poland
🇵🇱✨ Poland – Traditions & Customs
Poland is a country steeped in tradition, where the past and present blur together in a glorious (and occasionally confusing) dance of folklore, food, and fiercely observed customs. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning to stick around a bit longer, you’ll need to learn the ropes — or risk accidentally insulting someone’s grandma.
💡 Discover cultural differences that might surprise you
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Polish to live here?
Not always. In larger cities, many people speak English, but in smaller towns, a basic knowledge of Polish can be essential. Even in government offices, a few simple Polish phrases can go a long way in making the experience smoother and less stressful.
How long can I use my UK driving licence?
Up to 6 months after gaining residency. After that, you must swap it.
Is buying property in Poland safe for foreigners?
Yes—but some restrictions apply, especially on agricultural land. Urban property is typically fine.
💡 Visit our FAQ section for more answers
🎓 Education, Employment & Everything Else
Whether you’re figuring out where to send your kids to university or navigating work permits post-Brexit, we’ve pulled together tips, tricks, and real-life examples to help you move forward.
💼 Explore working in Poland
🎓 Compare university options in Poland and abroad
🍴 British Comforts (Yes, You Can Still Get PG Tips)
Missing the taste of home? You’re not alone.
When’s the Next British Week at Lidl?
Craving bacon, Stilton, or PG Tips? British Week is a hot topic—here’s when it might be back.
Where to Get British Food Between Promotions
No Stilton at Lidl? Try Allegro or other Polish shops that stock expat favourites.
- 🛒 Dealz regularly stocks HP Sauce and other UK favourites.
- 🇬🇧 British shops in Warsaw carry harder-to-find items.
- 📦 Amazon.pl often has better prices than you’d expect.
💡 Tip: Fruity HP Sauce for cheese. Original for meat. Trust us.
💰 What’s the Deal With Living Costs in Poland?
Poland is generally cheaper than the UK across the board. From rent and groceries to transport and entertainment, you’ll find your money stretches a little further here. But of course, it depends on your lifestyle. If you’re sipping champagne in Warsaw every night, well… your wallet might still feel the pinch.
…Public Services are often offline: Don’t expect seamless digital bureaucracy—many things are still paper-based or require in-person appointments.
🐾 Living in Poland: Pets & Vets
Bringing your furry friend to Poland—or adopting one once you arrive? You’re not alone. Poland is a pet-friendly country, but caring for animals here can come with a few surprises, especially when it comes to vet costs and insurance options. Whether you’re walking your dog through Kraków’s leafy parks or trying to find the right vet in a small town, we’ve got the info you need to plan ahead and keep your pet happy and healthy.
Is Pet Insurance in Poland Worth It?
Limited cover, high costs, and age restrictions—many expats say no.
Smart Alternatives to Pet Insurance
From monthly savings pots to international UK policies, here’s how to plan ahead for vet bills.
🎓 University Options in Poland
Poland may be known for Chopin, and beautiful old towns—but it’s also a rising star in the world of higher education. With globally recognised degrees, affordable tuition, and an increasing number of English-language programmes, more students than ever are choosing to study in Poland.
Poland is a hidden gem for university study—especially if you want a quality education without breaking the bank. Whether you’re aiming for a career in Europe or just want to explore something different, studying in Poland could be the launchpad you didn’t know you needed. Just bring an open mind, a good coat (it gets cold!), and a hunger for pierogi-fuelled adventures.
👉 Find out more about university options
🏘️ Life in a Polish Neighbourhood
Shared Streets, Confusing Addresses
In Poland, it’s common for villages and towns to duplicate street names and numbering, leading to mix-ups. Emergency services can even be affected—raising the stakes for getting the issue resolved.
Can it be fixed? Possibly—with enough residents and cooperation from local authorities, changes can be made.
🍺 Warsaw Beer Festival: Worth a Visit?
Wondering if the Warsaw Beer Festival lives up to the hype? Here’s what the community had to say:
Scale and Variety: With over 1,400 beers across 600+ taps, and exclusive festival brews, it’s considered the largest beer event in Central & Eastern Europe.
More Than Just Beer: Includes food trucks, guided tours, beer masterclasses (some in English), concerts, yoga sessions, and even chilli-eating contests.
Entry Fee: 32zł/day or 59zł for a 3-day pass. Some consider this steep since beers inside are priced similarly to Warsaw bars (mid 20s PLN per pint).
Mixed Feelings: Some attendees love the diversity of beer; others feel it’s overpriced and miss the days of cheaper, local brews.
🎤 Bonus: There’s karaoke at the end, but some say that’s a reason to leave early!
