Retiring in Poland
Poland is rapidly gaining popularity among British expats as a retirement destination, and it’s easy to see why. With a lower cost of living, beautiful cities and countryside, reliable healthcare, and a rich cultural heritage, the country offers an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful and affordable lifestyle in retirement.
Retiring to Poland as a UK citizen can be a rewarding and financially savvy move – but it’s essential to plan properly. Below is everything you need to know, from pensions and healthcare to visa requirements and property law.
💰 Cost of Living
One of the main attractions of retiring in Poland is its affordability. The cost of living is around 50% lower than in the UK, according to Numbeo. You can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle at a fraction of the cost. Housing, transport, and groceries are all significantly cheaper.
👉 What’s the Deal With Living Costs in Poland?
🏥 Healthcare
Poland offers a solid public healthcare system, and emergency treatment is available to UK citizens using the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). However, since Brexit, EHIC only covers emergencies and not pre-existing conditions. Private health insurance is highly recommended.
📄 Residency and Visas
UK citizens can stay in Poland for up to 90 days without a visa. If you plan to stay longer, you must apply for a residence permit. The process can be bureaucratic, so professional advice is recommended.
👉 What You Need to Know -2025 Edition
🏠 Property and Real Estate
Poland’s property market is accessible and diverse. Cities like Kraków, Warsaw, and areas along the Baltic Coast are popular with expats. Legal advice is essential, as property laws differ from those in the UK.
📑 Taxes
Retirees in Poland are subject to Polish tax laws. You’ll need to register with local tax authorities and file returns annually. Thanks to the UK–Poland tax treaty, most pension income is taxed in Poland only.
🧾 UK State Pension
If you’re a British expat in Poland, don’t overlook the UK State Pension – it remains one of the most reliable income sources in retirement.
🆕 New State Pension
As of the 2023/2024 tax year, the maximum new State Pension is £203.85 per week for those who reached retirement age after 6 April 2016.
🧮 How Do I Qualify?
- ✅ You need at least 10 years of UK National Insurance Contributions (NICs).
- ✅ To get the full pension, you need 35 years of qualifying NICs.
- ✅ You can claim it even if you permanently live in Poland.
📈 Building Entitlement While in Poland
- 💼 If employed/self-employed, pay Class 2 NICs (£3.45/week in 2023/2024).
- 🛋️ If not working, pay Class 3 voluntary NICs (£17.45/week in 2023/2024).
- ⏪ You can pay up to 6 years of arrears to fill in gaps.
⏰ When Can I Receive It?
- 📆 66 years old if retiring in 2020
- 📆 67 years old if retiring in 2028
- 📆 68 years old if retiring in 2046
📊 Will It Rise With Inflation?
Yes. As a Poland resident, your pension is covered by the “triple lock” – it increases each year by the highest of inflation, wage growth, or 2.5%.
💷 Taxation of State Pension in Poland
Your State Pension is taxable in Poland and not in the UK. You won’t benefit from the UK’s tax-free allowance. Ensure you’re registered with the Polish tax authority (Urząd Skarbowy).
📝 How to Claim While in Poland
- 📄 Complete ZUS form Rp-1E and submit to your local ZUS office.
- 📂 Provide employment history from both the UK and Poland.
- 📑 Submit P45/P60 or detailed employment records if those forms are unavailable.
🌍 International SIPPs and QROPs
For expats retiring abroad, transferring UK pensions into either an International SIPP or QROPs can offer flexibility and tax efficiency – but each has pros and cons.
💼 What is an International SIPP?
An International SIPP (Self-Invested Personal Pension) allows you to manage UK pension funds while living overseas. It’s regulated by the UK’s FCA and keeps your pension within UK jurisdiction.
- ✅ Access to a wide range of investment options
- ✅ Ability to consolidate multiple pensions
- ✅ Withdraw funds in various currencies
- ✅ Remain under UK regulatory protections
🌐 What is a QROPS?
A QROPS (Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme) is a pension scheme based outside the UK that meets HMRC rules. You may consider a QROPS if:
- 🌎 You plan to live abroad permanently
- 📉 You want to mitigate future UK inheritance tax
- 🧾 You seek greater flexibility in currency and investment
Be aware that a 25% tax charge may apply to QROPS transfers unless both the scheme and your residence are within the European Economic Area (EEA).
🧐 Which One Should I Choose?
International SIPPs are often better suited for expats in Poland, as they maintain UK oversight and avoid the QROPS overseas transfer charge. However, high-net-worth individuals or those with specific estate planning needs may still benefit from a QROPS. Always consult a regulated financial adviser before proceeding.
🗣️ Language and Culture
Learning Polish will help you connect with locals and ease daily life. Polish culture is rich, traditional, and welcoming – immersing yourself in it can be one of the great joys of retiring in Poland.
🚌 Transportation
Public transport in Poland is affordable and efficient. Cities are well-connected with buses, trams, and trains, often at a fraction of UK prices.
👨💼 Speak to the Experts
When it comes to financial or legal matters, expert guidance is invaluable. Here are our top recommendations.
Financial Advice Poland – Financial Advice Poland is an independent financial adviser with a specific focus and specialisation in helping expats in, or moving to, Poland to manage their wealth.
The Warsaw Law Firm of Bernard Łukomski – This Polish law firm provides expert advice to clients on matters including personal and corporate income tax, VAT, excise duty, transfer tax, stamp duty, real estate tax, tax disputes, social security, and fiscal criminal law.
🔚 Final Thoughts
Retiring in Poland offers a low-cost, culturally rich lifestyle with solid healthcare and excellent pension options. Whether you’re considering a simple move or need help with complex pension transfers, make sure to plan ahead and get professional advice where needed.
