Can Foreigners Buy Houses in Poland? Permit Requirements for Non-EU Citizens

Yes, foreigners can buy apartments in Poland without any permits - but houses and land require Interior Ministry approval for non-EU citizens. The permit process takes 2-6 months, costs ~1,570 PLN, and is usually approved if you have residency, work, or family ties to Poland. EU/EEA citizens face no restrictions on any property type.

While foreigners can freely purchase apartments in Poland, buying a house or land requires additional permits for non-EU citizens. Understanding these requirements is essential for anyone planning to purchase property beyond a simple apartment.

The Key Distinction: Apartments vs. Houses

Polish property law makes an important distinction between different types of real estate:

• Apartments (Residential Units): Can be purchased freely by all foreigners, regardless of nationality, without any special permits.
• Houses with Land: Require a permit from the Ministry of the Interior and Administration for non-EU/EEA citizens.
• Land Only: Also requires a permit for non-EU/EEA citizens, with additional restrictions on agricultural and forestry land.

Who Needs a Permit?

The permit requirement depends on your nationality and residency status:

No Permit Required

• EU and EEA citizens (with some exceptions for agricultural land in border zones)
• Citizens of countries with reciprocity agreements
• Foreigners who have been permanent residents in Poland for at least 5 years
• Spouses of Polish citizens who have been living in Poland for at least 2 years

Permit Required

• Citizens of non-EU/EEA countries (including Americans, Canadians, Australians, etc.)
• Foreign companies registered outside the EU

The Permit Application Process

Obtaining a permit to buy a house in Poland involves several steps:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

• Application form for property acquisition permit
• Proof of identity (passport copy)
• Documents proving your connection to Poland (residence permit, work permit, family ties)
• Property documents (extract from land register, property description)
• Proof of financial means to purchase
• Statement of intended use of the property

Step 2: Submit Application

Applications are submitted to the Ministry of the Interior and Administration (Ministerstwo Spraw Wewnętrznych i Administracji). The application fee is approximately 1,570 PLN.

Step 3: Processing Time

The standard processing time is up to 2 months, though complex cases may take longer. The ministry may request additional documentation during review.

Step 4: Decision

If approved, you receive a permit valid for 2 years from the date of issue. The property purchase must be completed within this timeframe.

Grounds for Approval

The ministry considers several factors when evaluating applications:

• Connection to Poland: Long-term residence, family ties, or business activities in Poland significantly improve chances of approval.
• Purpose of Purchase: Residential use for self and family is viewed favorably.
• Property Location: Properties near borders or in protected areas face stricter scrutiny.
• National Security: The ministry assesses whether the purchase poses any security concerns.

Special Cases and Exceptions

Inheritance

If you inherit property in Poland, you have 2 years from the date of inheritance to apply for a permit. If denied, you must sell the property to someone who can legally own it.

Companies

Foreign-owned companies registered in Poland can sometimes purchase property more easily than individuals, depending on the ownership structure and business purpose.

Border Zones

Properties within 50 km of Poland's borders require additional scrutiny, even for EU citizens in some cases.

Practical Tips for House Buyers

Before Starting

• Verify whether you actually need a permit for your situation
• Consult with a Polish lawyer specializing in real estate
• Check if the property has any encumbrances or restrictions
• Confirm the property boundaries and land classification

During the Process

• Include a contingency clause in your preliminary agreement regarding permit approval
• Keep all documentation organized and translated
• Maintain communication with the ministry if processing takes longer than expected
• Be prepared for additional document requests

After Approval

• Complete the purchase within the 2-year validity period
• Register the property in the land register under your name
• Notify relevant authorities of your new address if residing there

Costs Involved

Beyond the property price, budget for these additional costs:

• Permit Application Fee: Approximately 1,570 PLN
• Notary Fees: Typically 0.5-3% of property value
• Property Transfer Tax: 2% of market value for secondary market properties
• Land Register Entry: 200 PLN
• Legal Fees: Variable, depending on complexity
• Translation Costs: For document translation if needed

What If Your Permit Is Denied?

If your application is rejected, you have several options:

• Appeal: You can appeal the decision within 14 days to the Ministry.
• Reapply: Address the reasons for rejection and submit a new application.
• Alternative: Consider purchasing an apartment instead, which requires no permit.
• Company Structure: In some cases, establishing a Polish company may provide an alternative path.

Recent Trends and Changes

Poland's approach to foreign property ownership has remained relatively stable, though there's ongoing discussion about:

• Potential reciprocity agreements with more countries
• Streamlined processes for long-term residents
• Increased scrutiny of agricultural land purchases

For the most current requirements, always verify with official sources or a qualified legal professional before beginning your property search.

While the permit process adds complexity to buying a house in Poland, many foreigners successfully navigate it each year. With proper preparation and professional guidance, purchasing your dream home in Poland is an achievable goal.

Related Poland Property Guides

Planning to buy property in Warsaw? These guides help:

• Foreign Property Buyers in Poland: Statistics
• Living in Warsaw: Complete Expat Guide
• Warsaw Housing Services
• Legal and Financial Services