ING Bank Śląski is one of the leaders in the Polish banking market, renowned for its digital innovation and high service standards. However, for non-residents looking to open a corporate account here, this is a bank with a very serious approach to compliance. There is no “simplified procedure” or “tolerance for non-standard structures.” The bank conducts a thorough verification of both the client and their business.

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In this article, we will break down in detail how a foreigner can open an account with ING Bank, what the bank pays the closest attention to, how the interview process works, and why knowledge of Polish or English is mandatory.

 

Important Context: Why ING Verifies Clients So Thoroughly

In 2025, the President of the Personal Data Protection Office (RODO) imposed a record fine of PLN 18.4 million (approx. €4.37 million) on ING Bank Śląski for violations related to the processing of clients’ personal data.

What happened?

Between 2019 and 2020, the bank scanned identity documents for all clients and potential clients-without exception and without individually assessing the necessity of such scanning. This was done even when handling ATM complaints, which is unrelated to AML (Anti-Money Laundering).

Following this precedent, ING began acting even more cautiously. Now, each case is assessed individually, and the risk-based approach has become even stricter. The bank must clearly understand who you are, where your money comes from, and what you do to avoid facing new sanctions.

 

Specifics of the ING Bank Process

1. Online Application + Mandatory Branch Visit
You can submit an account opening application online, which is convenient. However, after submitting the application, you must visit a bank branch in person for identity verification. It is impossible to open an account remotely (without a visit) for a non-resident at ING.

2. Interview Only in Polish or English
This is a critically important point. The interview with the bank officer is conducted exclusively in Polish or English. The presence of an interpreter or an assistant (e.g., a lawyer) is not allowed. The bank needs to personally ensure that you understand the questions being asked and can provide explanations about your business independently.

3. Timeline: From a Few Days to 2 Weeks

• Application Review: After the visit and submission of documents, the bank conducts its analysis.

• Account Activation: This can take up to 2 weeks. The exact timeframe depends on the complexity of the company’s structure, the transparency of funding sources, and the speed of data confirmation.

ING Bank’s Main Requirements for Foreign Clients

1. Mandatory PESEL Number
As with most Polish banks, a non-resident needs a PESEL number to open a corporate account. The process is impossible without it.

2. Correspondence Address in Poland
The bank will definitely request a Polish address for sending correspondence (adres korespondencyjny). This can be your actual residential address but cannot be the company’s registered legal address.

3. Clear Business Description and Ties to Poland
ING Bank expects the company to have a real economic connection (substance) with Poland. You must convincingly explain and document:

• What exactly your company does

• Who your main counterparties and suppliers are

• Which countries payments come from and go to

• Why you need an account in Poland and how the business is linked to the Polish market (contracts with Polish partners, having an office/employees, development plans).

Without a clear, logical, and documented business description, the bank will likely refuse.

4. Approach to Citizenship: EU Priority, but Ukrainians are Considered.
The bank is more favorable towards citizens of EU countries, as they are considered standard risk. However, ING does work with Ukrainians if the company meets all the requirements listed above: a transparent structure, a clear business model, a clear link to Poland, and impeccable documentation.

5. Strict Currency Control
ING Bank Śląski is known for its rather strict currency control conditions. This means:

• Any transactions, especially in foreign currencies and with foreign counterparties, will be carefully checked.

• You must have supporting documents ready for each payment (contracts, invoices).

• The bank may request information about the source of funds and the economic rationale for the transaction.

 

“Red Flags”: What Can Lead to Rejection

Based on practical experience and the bank’s internal policies, here are the main risk factors:

• Non-transparent ownership structure. Complicated ownership chains, nominee structures, offshore companies – these are almost a guaranteed rejection.

• High-risk business activities (PKD codes). Cryptocurrencies, financial services, gambling, arms trade, and dual-use goods – if your business falls into this category, approval chances are minimal.

• Lack of a clear connection to Poland. If you cannot clearly explain why you need an account in Poland and you have no Polish counterparties or office, the bank will perceive this as a “shell company.”

• Incomplete or contradictory documents. Any mistake or discrepancy between the data in KRS, CRBR, and your application forms is grounds for rejection.

 

Documents Required to Open an Account

Opening a corporate account in ING Bank requires a standard set of documents:

Document	Requirements
KRS Extract	Current
Company Articles (Umowa spółki)	Notarial deed or printout from S24
NIP, REGON	Confirmation of number assignment
List of Beneficiaries (UBO)	Information on ultimate beneficiaries (verified with CRBR)
Confirmation of Legal Address	Office lease/sublease agreement
Business Description	Detailed information on planned turnover, counterparties, countries of operation, source of funds

 

Service Costs (Approximate)

Exact fees depend on the chosen service package and individual conditions. Current rates should be confirmed on the bank’s official website or with a consultant.

Service	Approximate Cost
Account Maintenance (Corporate)	from 0 to 49 PLN/month (depends on package and turnover)
Elixir Transfers	approx. 0.50 – 1 PLN
SEPA / Foreign Transfers	individual, depends on amount and currency
Currency Accounts (EUR, USD)	often included in the package or for an additional fee

 

Comparison: ING vs BNP Paribas vs PKO BP

Criterion	ING Bank Śląski	BNP Paribas	PKO Bank Polski
Online Application	Yes, but with a visit	In-person only	Available (remote opening)
Interview	Only Polish/English	Interpreter allowed	Interpreter allowed
Activation Time	Up to 2 weeks	Up to 14 days	1 day (immediate)
Currency Control	Strict	Moderate	Lenient
Approach to Foreigners	EU priority; Ukrainians considered with clear justification	Works with non-residents	One of the most favorable
Key Feature	Deep verification, risk-based approach	Two documents required, no immediate activation	Transfers to Belarus, remote opening

 

Our Assistance: How to Increase Your Chances of Success with ING

Opening an account at ING independently as a foreigner is a challenging task. The high compliance requirements, language barrier, and the need to clearly justify your business model often lead to rejections.

How we help:

•  Preliminary Audit. We check your company and documents against ING’s requirements BEFORE submitting the application, identifying and addressing any “red flags.”

•  Business Description Preparation. We help create a clear, logical, and convincing description of your business activities in Polish or English that will appeal to the compliance department.

•  Interview Consultation. We explain what questions ING asks and how to answer them correctly to leave the bank with no doubts.

•  Communication with the Bank. In case of difficulties, we help prepare additional explanations and documents, communicating with the bank in professional language.

ING Bank is an excellent choice for a transparent business with a clear structure and a genuine connection to Poland. But you need to be prepared.

Need help opening an account at ING Bank Śląski? Contact us — we will guide you through all the steps, help you prepare for the interview, and significantly increase your chances of success!

Сообщение How to Open a Corporate Account in ING Bank Poland появились сначала на Купить готовую фирму в Польше с VAT номером и расчетным счетом - IZIBIZ.

KYC/AML procedures are mandatory checks that every bank in Poland is legally required to perform when entering into a service agreement with a client. In this article, we will explain in detail what KYC and AML are, which laws they are based on, how your business is verified, and what you can do to pass the process successfully.

What are KYC and AML? Complex topics in simple terms

AML (Anti-Money Laundering) is a set of measures to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. It is an international system of rules designed to prevent criminals from legitimising illegally obtained income through the banking system.

KYC (Know Your Customer) is the practical tool for implementing AML policy. In simple terms, it means “know your customer”. This is the process in which a bank collects and verifies information about you and your business to ensure that you are who you claim to be and that your activities are legal. In other words, AML is “why we do it”, and KYC is “how we do it”.

How do banks practically verify clients as part of the procedure?

• Each bank maintains a list of high‑risk jurisdictions; they may refuse to work with citizens of those countries (for example, PKO BP lists Bulgaria, Latvia, and Romania).

• The client is checked against pan‑European databases for legal violations.

• Verification of a residential or correspondence address in Poland.

• Determination of whether the client is a US tax resident.

Legal framework: which laws regulate this?

The activities of Polish banks in the area of AML/KYC are regulated by several levels of legislation.

1. Polish Act of 1 March 2018 on counteracting money laundering and terrorist financing.

2. European Union Directives (AMLD4, AMLD5 and new ones).
   Polish legislation is harmonised with EU standards. The Fourth Directive (2015/849) established basic financial monitoring requirements, the Fifth Directive (2018/843) expanded access to beneficial ownership registers, and the new AML package (2024) introduces uniform rules across the EU.

3. EU sanctions regulations.
   Banks are obliged to check clients and their counterparties against EU sanctions lists (e.g., against Russia and Belarus). This directly affects the ability to open accounts and process transactions.

KYB: When not only the individual but also the business is verified

For corporate clients, the term KYB (Know Your Business) is used. This is a more complex procedure than KYC for individuals, as it requires analysis of the company structure, ownership chain, and ultimate beneficial owners.

Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD)
Applies when the client or situation is assessed as high risk. This is mandatory if:

• The client is a politically exposed person (PEP) or is linked to one.

• The client or transaction involves countries on the FATF or EU “blacklist”.

• A complex or non‑transparent ownership structure is identified.

• The client plans transactions aimed at concealing the identity of the beneficiary (suspicion of nominee services).

Under EDD, the bank will request additional information, including confirmation of the source of funds.

How long does KYC verification take?

The timeline depends on the complexity of your structure and how quickly you respond to requests.

• Simple cases (Polish founders, transparent structure) – may take just a few minutes.

• Complex cases (foreign founders, holding structures, companies from “risky” jurisdictions) – may stretch over several days.

The KYB process for complex structures involves not just checking a single register but building an entire “ownership tree”, sometimes spanning multiple countries. This is manual work by analysts and takes time.

Why can you be refused? Red flags

A bank has the right to refuse to open an account if it cannot fulfil its AML obligations or assesses the risk as too high. Common reasons for refusal include:

• Non‑transparent ownership structure. The UBO cannot be reliably identified and verified, especially if the chain includes offshore companies or nominee arrangements.

• Sanctions risks. Direct or indirect exposure to EU sanctions.

• High‑risk activity. Cryptocurrencies, financial services, arms trade, dual‑use goods, precious metals, gambling.

• Connection with high‑risk countries. Clients or counterparties from FATF‑listed countries.

• Data discrepancies. Inconsistencies between the CRBR, company documents, and the application forms.

• Lack of connection to Poland. No office, employees, contracts; it is unclear why the company is in Poland.

• Complex structure combined with a “young” company. A startup with a complex holding structure represents double risk for the bank.

Conclusion

KYC/AML is not a “glass ceiling” for foreign businesses, but a system of rules that can and should be taken into account when planning. Polish banks are required to apply these measures to protect the financial system and themselves from fines. The key is to understand the bank’s logic:

• Transparency – we must see who stands behind everything.

• Clarity – we must understand what you do.

• Predictability – we must know where the money comes from and where it goes.

If your business is built with these principles in mind, KYC verification will become a formality rather than an obstacle.

Need help preparing to open an account or communicating with the bank? Contact us – we will help you get through KYC/AML verification quickly and without unnecessary questions!

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However, for non-residents wishing to open a corporate account here, the procedure has its own specifics. BNP Paribas imposes high compliance requirements and thoroughly verifies each client. In this article, we will explain in detail how a foreigner can open an account at BNP Paribas, what the bank pays the closest attention to, and how to avoid rejection.

Account Opening Timeline

Important nuance with activation

The account opening process at BNP Paribas consists of two stages:

• Contract signing (1 visit): You come to the branch and sign the contract. This takes about 30–60 minutes.

• Account activation (up to 14 days or more): Important! Signing the contract does not mean immediate activation. BNP Paribas is required to conduct full client verification after signing, in accordance with the AML law. The contract becomes effective only after a positive check, no later than 30 business days. In practice, this period is usually about 14 days, but it may take longer if the bank has questions or requires additional documents. If the company does not meet the bank’s criteria, the account may not be activated, and the contract will be cancelled.

The total time from application to actual account activation is about 2 weeks.

 Main Requirements of BNP Paribas for Foreign Clients

Before applying, it is important to ensure that your company meets the bank’s key criteria.

1. “Clean” legal address (not a mass registration address)

BNP Paribas, like other major banks, pays very close attention to the company’s legal address. If your company is registered at a mass registration address (a so‑called “virtual office” where dozens or hundreds of other companies are also registered), and the founders are foreigners, this almost certainly leads to rejection. You need a “non‑spammed”, unique legal address with proof of actual presence.

2. Two identity documents

For identification of company representatives, the bank requires two photo IDs. For example:

• Passport (mandatory for all non‑residents)

• Driving license or national ID (for EU citizens)

This is standard practice for enhanced identity verification under KYC/AML procedures.

3. Mandatory PESEL number

For foreigners opening an account (either as individuals or as company representatives), having a PESEL number is mandatory. The process is impossible without it. PESEL is required for identification in the Polish banking system and for interfacing with government registers.

4. Correspondence address in Poland

The bank will definitely request a Polish address for correspondence (adres korespondencyjny). This can be your actual residential address or the company’s office address. If you live abroad, you can provide the address of a trusted person or your representative’s office in Poland.

5. Personal visit of a director

Opening an account at BNP Paribas remotely (fully online) is not possible for non-residents. The personal presence of at least one member of the management board (director) is required to sign the documents. Opening an account by proxy (without a director’s visit) is generally not allowed in this bank.

“Red Flags”: What Can Lead to Rejection

Based on practical experience and the bank’s internal policies, BNP Paribas takes a very careful approach to risk assessment. The following are the main factors that can result in refusal.

1. High‑risk business activities (PKD codes)

If your business falls into a category considered high‑risk from an AML perspective (e.g., cryptocurrencies, financial services, trade with sanctioned countries, gambling, weapons business, etc.), this combined with other “inputs” (foreigners, new business) may be grounds for refusal.

2. Lack of connection to Poland

BNP Paribas, like other Polish banks, prefers to open accounts for companies that have a real economic connection to Poland (substance): contracts with Polish counterparties, office/warehouse rental, plans to operate in the local market.

Documents Required to Open an Account

Opening a corporate account at BNP Paribas requires a standard set of documents.

Company documents (corporate package)

Document	Requirements
KRS Extract	Current
Company Articles (Umowa spółki)	Notarial deed or printout from S24
NIP, REGON	Confirmation of number assignment
List of Beneficiaries (UBO)	Information on ultimate beneficial owners (verified with CRBR)
Confirmation of Legal Address	Office or co-working space lease/sublease agreement
Business Description	Information on planned turnover, counterparties, countries of operation, source of funds

Documents of company representatives (management board members)

• Two identity documents: passport + driving license or ID card (for EU citizens).

• PESEL number (mandatory!)

• Residence card (karta pobytu) – if available, but not mandatory.

• Tax residency statement (bank form).

• Confirmation of Polish correspondence address.

Service Costs (Approximate)

Exact fees depend on the chosen service package and individual conditions. Current rates should be confirmed on the bank’s official website or with a consultant.

Conclusion

BNP Paribas is a reliable bank with high compliance standards and can be an excellent financial partner for your business. However, the account opening procedure for non-residents has its own specifics and risks. If your company meets these criteria, BNP Paribas will be a solid partner. If there are any doubts, it is better to entrust preparation and support to professionals who know all the nuances and can help you avoid rejection.

Our advantage: minimal risk and activation guarantee

•  Pre‑screening without the client. We audit your company and documents BEFORE submission to the bank, assess risks, and prepare the ideal package.

•  Communication with the bank. We liaise with the compliance department, clarify requirements, and resolve issues at the pre‑approval stage.

•  Minimising activation time. Thanks to properly prepared documents and our contacts within the bank, we reduce the verification period after contract signing to a minimum.

•  Guarantee of result. You get 100% confidence that the account will be activated after the contract is signed.

Need help opening an account at BNP Paribas Polska? Contact us – we will check your company against the bank’s requirements, prepare the perfect set of documents, and guide you through the process from A to Z, guaranteeing account activation!

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However, for non-residents wishing to open a corporate account here, there are several specific requirements and restrictions. In this article, we will explain in detail how a foreigner can open an account at Santander Bank, what the bank pays the closest attention to, and how to avoid rejection.

 Main Requirements of Santander Bank for Foreign Clients

Before applying, it is important to ensure that your company meets the bank’s key criteria.

1. Mandatory PESEL number
For foreigners opening an account (either as individuals or as company representatives), having a PESEL number is mandatory. The process is impossible without it.

2. Personal visit to a branch
Remote account opening for non-residents is not available. You must personally visit a bank branch in Poland for identification and to sign the contract. The only exception is Polish citizens.

“Red Flags”: What Can Lead to Rejection

Based on practical experience and the bank’s internal policies, Santander pays very close attention to certain aspects of a company’s operations. The following factors almost guarantee rejection.

1. “Spammed” legal address (mass‑registration address)
This is one of the most common reasons for refusal. If your company is registered at an address where dozens or hundreds of other companies are also registered (a so‑called mass‑registration “virtual office”), this is a red flag for the bank. A mass‑registration address combined with foreign founders almost always leads to rejection of the account opening. You need a “non‑spammed”, unique legal address, ideally with proof of actual presence.

2. High‑risk business activities (PKD codes)
Certain types of activities automatically fall under enhanced AML scrutiny. If your business is in a high‑risk category (e.g., cryptocurrencies, financial services, trade with high‑risk countries, gambling, certain types of online trading), this combined with other “inputs” (foreigners, newly established company) may be grounds for refusal.

3. Complete change of shareholders and management in the last 12 months
Santander Bank does not work with companies that have undergone a complete change of shareholders (partners) and/or management board within the last 12 months. The bank interprets this as an attempt to conceal the ultimate beneficial owner or to “whitewash” the company’s reputation. If your company has recently changed owners, you must wait at least one year from the date of the last changes in the KRS before applying to this bank.

Documents Required to Open an Account

Opening a corporate account at Santander Bank Polska requires a standard set of documents.

Document	Requirements
KRS Extract	Current
Company Articles (Umowa spółki)	Notarial deed or printout from S24
NIP, REGON	Confirmation of number assignment
List of Beneficiaries (UBO)	Information on ultimate beneficial owners (verified with CRBR)
Confirmation of Legal Address	Office lease/sublease agreement
Business Description	Information on planned turnover, counterparties, countries of operation

Documents of company representatives (management board members / shareholders)

• Valid passport (for all authorised signatories) or ID card for EU citizens.

• PESEL number (mandatory!).

• Residence card (karta pobytu) – if available, but not mandatory.

Timeline and Cost of Opening

• Application review: 1 to 3 days.

• Contract signing: After approval, a meeting is scheduled at the branch.

• Account activation: The account is active immediately after signing the contract (during the visit).

The total time from application to gaining access to the account is typically 1–3 days.

Service Costs (Approximate)

Self‑Opening vs Our Assistance

Self‑opening: the standard route

• Visit 1: You go to the branch with documents. The manager accepts them and starts the verification.

• Waiting period (1 day): The bank performs KYC/AML checks.

• Visit 2 (if approved): You are invited to sign the contract.
  Risk: If your profile does not meet the requirements (e.g., mass‑registration address or recent change of owners), you will be refused, and both visits will have been wasted.

Our advantage: minimal risk and one visit

•  Pre‑approval without the client. We prepare documents, communicate with the bank, and obtain initial pre‑approval before you even come to the bank. This allows us to filter out potential problems at the consultation stage.

•  One visit for signing. After our support, you have 100% certainty of approval, and you only need to come to the bank once – to sign the already prepared contract.

Conclusion

Santander Bank Polska is an excellent choice for foreign businesses due to its speed of opening (account active immediately) and its wide range of services. However, this bank imposes strict requirements on potential clients.

Key success factors:

• Having a PESEL number.

• A “clean”, unique legal address (not a mass‑registration address).

• No complete change of owners in the last 12 months.

• Business activities in line with the bank’s policies.

If your company meets these criteria, Santander will be a reliable financial partner. If there are any doubts, it is better to turn to professionals who can help prepare the documents and avoid rejection.

Need help opening an account at Santander Bank Polska? Contact us – we will check your company against the bank’s requirements, prepare the perfect set of documents, and guide you through the process from A to Z!

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The answer depends on the bank, your company’s legal form, and… who handles the account opening process. In this article, we will break down the actual timelines for opening corporate accounts at key Polish banks and show you how to save time.

Actual Timelines by Bank (from Contract Signing to Activation)

Below is detailed information on how quickly different banks activate an account after signing the contract, as well as specifics of their procedures.

Bank	Activation Time After Signing	Important Details
PKO Bank Polski	1 day (active immediately)	One of the fastest banks. Accounts can be opened fully remotely via iPKO, IKO, or the website with authorisation through mObywatel. For non-residents, a personal visit may be required, but the account is activated immediately after signing.
Santander Bank Polska	1 day (active immediately)	Account active immediately after signing the contract. A branch visit is mandatory.
BNP Paribas	Up to 14 days	Important nuance! Signing the contract does not mean immediate activation. BNP Paribas must conduct full client verification after signing. The contract becomes effective only after a positive check, no later than 30 business days. In practice, this often takes around 14 days, but be prepared for a longer wait. A branch visit is mandatory.
ING Bank Śląski	3 to 14 days	Activation time depends on the complexity of the company structure and verification results. It may take from a few days to two weeks. A branch visit is mandatory.
Nest Bank	1 day (active immediately)	Account active immediately after signing. Positioned as a bank with simple and fast procedures, focused on small business. A branch visit is mandatory.
Credit Agricole	~7 days	Activation takes about 7 days. The bank offers a promotional waiver of account maintenance fees, Elixir transfers, and card fees for 12 months. A branch visit is mandatory.
Alior Bank	~7 days (approval)	According to intermediaries, the approval time is 1–3 days, but including the visit and signing, the estimated time to activation is about one week. A branch visit is mandatory.
Bank Pekao S.A.	~7 days (approval)	Approval and activation also take about 7 days. A branch visit is mandatory.

Self‑Opening: The Standard Two‑Visit Route

If you decide to open an account on your own, be prepared that the process will most likely involve two separate visits to the bank.

Step 1: Document submission
You go to the bank branch with the complete set of documents. The manager accepts the documents and initiates the verification procedure (KYC/AML). Then the waiting period begins.

Step 2: Awaiting the bank’s decision (1–3 days)
The bank checks your company, beneficial owners, and sources of funds. This is a standard procedure that usually takes 1 to 3 business days. In some cases, if there are additional questions or your business has a complex structure, the timeline may extend.

Step 3: Second visit to sign the contract
After the bank approves the account opening, you will be invited to sign the contract. Only after this step does the account (in most cases) become active.

Result: Self‑opening takes at least 2–4 days under ideal circumstances, but sometimes stretches to 1–2 weeks.

 Our Advantage: Minimum Visits and Maximum Speed

We offer an optimised path that saves your time and nerves:

•  Pre‑approval without the client. We prepare documents, communicate with the bank, and obtain initial pre‑approval before you even come to the bank. This eliminates the waiting period for a decision after the first visit.

•  One visit for signing. After our support, you only need to come to the bank once – to sign the already prepared contract. In some cases, we can arrange a fully remote procedure without you needing to visit Poland at all.

Conclusion

Opening a bank account for a company in Poland can take anywhere from 1 day to 3–4 weeks, depending on the chosen bank and the method of opening.

• Fastest option: PKO BP, Santander, Nest Bank (activation immediately after signing).

• Option with a waiting period: BNP Paribas (activation can take up to 14 days or more).

• Mid‑range option: ING, Credit Agricole, Alior, Pekao (activation within about a week).

Need help opening an account in Poland? Contact us – we will do it quickly with minimal involvement from your side!

Сообщение Corporate Account Opening Timelines in Poland появились сначала на Купить готовую фирму в Польше с VAT номером и расчетным счетом - IZIBIZ.

In this article, we have gathered complete information: who in Poland has the right to block your account, for what reasons, and – most importantly – 10 practical tips on how to avoid it. The material is based on current Polish legal requirements and real‑life experience of entrepreneurs.

Who Can Block a Company Account in Poland?

Before discussing protection, you need to know the “enemy” by sight. Several entities have the right to block funds in an account, each with its own powers.

1. Blocking by the bank – the most common reason

A distinction should be made between a temporary block of access to the account or internet banking, which may occur due to repeated incorrect entry of a password or SMS codes, and a freeze of funds and the account itself by a bank decision. In the first situation, a visit to the bank or a call to support for identity verification is sufficient. The second case is a more complex procedure.

Under Article 106a of the Banking Law, a bank has the right to block an account on its own if it suspects that the funds in it may originate from criminal or illegal sources (fraud, money laundering). This is done within the framework of internal AML (Anti‑Money Laundering) controls. In 2015, EU Directive 2015/849 was adopted, regulating requirements for financial institutions to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. It obliged banks to implement enhanced customer due diligence measures and transaction monitoring.

2. Creditors and the court bailiff (komornik)

If the company has unpaid debts, the creditor may go to court. After obtaining a court decision with an enforcement clause (klauzula wykonalności), the court bailiff (komornik) steps in. The bailiff sends an official notice to the bank to seize the account for debt collection. The bank is obliged to block the funds for up to 7 calendar days, after which it must transfer them to the bailiff.

3. State authorities (KAS, US, ZUS)

State authorities that have the power to order the bank to block an account include:

• Szef Krajowej Administracji Skarbowej (KAS) – Head of the National Tax Administration. Can block an account in the event of tax arrears, serious reporting errors (VAT, CIT), or as part of control procedures.

• Naczelnik Urzędu Skarbowego (US) – Head of the tax office.

• Dyrektor Zakładu Ubezpieczeń Społecznych (ZUS) – Director of ZUS, if there are arrears in social security contributions.

• Prokuratura – Public prosecutor’s office, as part of investigative actions.

Important nuance: KAS can apply a short‑term 72‑hour block (without prior notice), against which no appeal is available. This is a preventive measure. If suspicions are confirmed, the block may be extended by a court for up to 3 months.

10 Ways to Avoid Account Blocking (Based on Real Experience)

Combining legal theory with practice, we have compiled a list of the most effective preventive measures.

1. Monitor your email and banking messages daily

This is the simplest and most important rule. The bank will never block an account “silently”. First, it will send a request – by email, via the internet banking system, or by SMS. Always answer calls from the bank, especially when processing transactions.

Tip: Always register the account with a corporate email address, but set up automatic forwarding of all emails from the bank to the personal email of the director and the accountant. This way, you won’t miss an important message even if an employee falls ill or leaves.

2. Notify the bank about counterparties and large transfer amounts

When opening a bank account, it is best to declare all possible jurisdictions the company plans to work with and where it intends to send or receive transfers. For the bank, any deviation from the usual pattern is a red flag. If you start working with a new jurisdiction or expect a large payment, it is wise to contact your relationship manager (opiekun klienta) in advance and inform them.

3. Financial monitoring – inform about growth in turnover

When opening the account, you indicated the expected annual turnover. If the business takes off and turnover increases sharply (e.g., 3–5 times), the bank’s automated systems may interpret this as an anomaly and block the account.

Tip: Don’t wait for a block. Write to your private banker or support explaining: “Our business is growing rapidly, we have signed new contracts, so we expect an increase in turnover to XXX PLN per month.”

This also applies to large‑sum transfers made immediately after company registration and account opening. Any transfer exceeding the equivalent of EUR 10,000 is automatically flagged for financial monitoring. If the bank has questions about a specific transaction, the account may be blocked pending clarification.

4. Always have a “dossier” for each transaction

This is the golden rule for trading companies. For every payment (incoming and outgoing), you should have supporting documents ready. The bank may request them at any time, and you are often given only a few days to respond.

What should be in the dossier:

• Contracts: Supplier agreement and buyer agreement.

• Financial documents: Invoices from the supplier and for the buyer, payment confirmations.

• Transport documents: CMR, bill of lading. Important: Bills of lading can now be checked online. If the vessel called at a sanctioned port, this may cause a block.

• Customs documents: Customs declarations, certificates of origin (if required).

5. Check counterparties before the transaction

Take the time to screen a new partner using public databases.

• Check sanctions lists. Doing business with a company whose owner is under sanctions will instantly block your account as well.

• Check registers. See who the actual beneficial owner of the counterparty company is; ensure there are no “problematic” jurisdictions or nationalities involved.

6. Do not mix personal and business expenses

A corporate account is for business only. Do not pay for supermarket purchases, buy apartments, or settle restaurant bills with a personal card linked to the company account. For personal needs, open a separate personal account.

7. Keep KYC (Know Your Customer) data up to date

Banks are required to regularly update client information (usually once a year). If you change your address, business activity, management board, or beneficial owners – notify the bank immediately. If the bank sends a request to update data, do not ignore it.

Special note: Changing the beneficial owner of a company is treated as opening an account from scratch. The new owner must go through full compliance checks. If they fail, the bank may close the account.

8. Build a personal relationship with your banker

This is a “secret weapon”. If you have direct contact with a personal relationship manager (opiekun klienta) who knows you, they can resolve many issues manually.

9. Diversify accounts for different business lines

If you have several business activities (e.g., wholesale trade and services), consider opening separate accounts in different banks for each activity. If one account is blocked for reasons related to one activity, the other remains operational, and the business does not come to a complete halt.

10. Turn to professionals when things get complicated

If you receive a request from the bank that seems excessive, or if the account has already been blocked – do not try to handle it on your own using Google Translate. A translation error or misunderstanding of the legal context can make the situation worse. An experienced lawyer or consultant knows how to communicate properly with the bank and what documents to prepare to have the account unblocked as quickly as possible.

Conclusion

Account blocking in Poland is not always the result of a legal violation. Often it is a consequence of bureaucratic procedures, automated AML system triggers, or simple carelessness.

Main principles for keeping your account safe:

• Transparency: The bank must understand your business.

• Communication: Respond to requests promptly and fully.

• Documentation: Keep all supporting documents for every transaction.

• Professionalism: Do not skimp on legal assistance for complex matters.

By following these simple rules, you will minimise the risk of a block and ensure financial stability for your business.

Need help communicating with a bank or unblocking an account? Contact us – we know how to talk to banks in their language and solve problems quickly!

Сообщение Corporate Account Blocking in Poland: 10 Ways to Avoid It появились сначала на Купить готовую фирму в Польше с VAT номером и расчетным счетом - IZIBIZ.

PKO Bank Polski is not just the largest bank in the country – it is one of the few that offers real solutions for foreigners. When you decide to open a business account for your company in Poland, PKO BP is often the most practical and rational choice for non‑residents. Let’s break down why PKO BP should be your first consideration, what documents are required to open an account (personal and business), and how much it costs.

Spoiler: this is the only bank among the top five that has retained the ability to open accounts for non‑resident companies, supports sending and receiving transfers to/from Belarus, and offers the most lenient currency control conditions.

Restriction! PKO BP does not work with clients from Latvia and Bulgaria.

Are you looking to open a bank account in Poland?

Legal services starting from 150 EUR.

Order Service

How long does it take to open an account at PKO Bank?

• Corporate account for a Polish company – 1–3 days

• Corporate account for a non‑resident company – from 7 days

• Personal account – 1 day

 

Why PKO Bank Polski? 5 Advantages for Non‑Residents

PKO Bank Polski is a systemically important bank with over 100 years of history, serving more than 12.4 million clients. But for a foreigner, what matters is not the numbers but the concrete possibilities.

1⃣ Genuine work with non‑residents
Unlike many banks that claim to work with foreigners on paper but then put them through lengthy compliance processes, PKO BP is among the banks with predictable procedures for non‑residents. This is confirmed by the experience of thousands of Ukrainian, Belarusian, and other foreign entrepreneurs who have successfully opened accounts here.

2⃣ The most lenient currency control
For businesses working with foreign counterparties, this is critical. PKO Bank Polski offers a wide selection of currency accounts (PLN, EUR, USD, GBP and many others, except RUB). The bank takes a lenient approach to confirming source of funds and does not reject payments on contrived grounds as long as you have a transparent business structure and clear contracts.

3⃣ The only bank with transfers to/from Belarus
This is a unique advantage that sets PKO BP apart from all other Polish banks. As of today, it is the only major bank that has maintained correspondent relationships and the technical capability to make transfers to Belarus and receive payments from that country. For businesses connected to the Belarusian market, this is often a decisive factor.

4⃣ Ability to open a business account remotely by power of attorney
For legal entities, PKO BP offers a flexible procedure. After obtaining pre‑approval and passing KYC, the account can be opened remotely – using a notarised power of attorney (pełnomocnictwo). This means that a management board member does not have to fly to Poland in person, saving time and money.

 

Opening a Business Account for a Company (sp. z o.o. / JDG)

PKO BP actively works with corporate non‑resident clients and has clear procedures for foreign companies.

Company documents (corporate package)

Document	Requirements
KRS Extract	Current
Umowa spółki (company articles)	Notarial deed or printout from S24
NIP, REGON	Confirmation of number assignment
List of Beneficiaries (UBO)	Information on ultimate beneficial owners (verified with CRBR)
Polish SIM card	A phone number from a Polish operator
Business Description	Information on planned turnover, counterparties, countries of operation

 

Documents of company representatives (management board members / shareholders)

• Valid passport (for all authorised signatories) or ID card for EU citizens

• Residence card (karta pobytu) – not mandatory

• PESEL number – not mandatory

 

Ways to open a business account

1. Personal visit of the director (standard procedure)
After preparing the complete set of documents and undergoing pre‑screening (KYC), a meeting is scheduled at the branch. The director signs the documents in person. Decision time: 1 to 3 days.

2. Remotely by power of attorney (key advantage of PKO BP!)
If a personal visit is impossible, PKO BP allows remote account opening:

• The bank conducts a preliminary document review and gives consent (pre‑approval 3–5 days).

• The director executes a specimen signature card and a notarial power of attorney (pełnomocnictwo notarialne) for a representative in Poland before a notary (or at a consulate).

• The notarised documents and power of attorney are sent to the bank, where they are reviewed by the legal department (1–3 days).

• The account is opened without the director’s personal presence.

 

Opening a Personal Account (konto osobiste) for a Foreigner

Who can open? A foreigner legally present in Poland can open an account with PKO BP. Having a PESEL number is not strictly mandatory, but it significantly simplifies the process.

Documents for an individual

Category	Documents	Note
Identity document	Passport (for non‑EU citizens) or EU ID card	Mandatory
Proof of address in Poland	Apartment lease agreement, employer certificate, registration confirmation (meldunek)	Recommended
PESEL	PESEL number (if available)	Greatly simplifies the process but is not mandatory
Polish SIM card	Phone number from a Polish operator	Required for app activation and transaction confirmation

 

Ways to open a personal account

•  Online (fastest method)
  If you have a Polish ID (e-dowód) and the mObywatel app, you can open PKO Konto za Zero in 5 minutes via the IKO app.

•  In a branch (for foreigners without Polish ID)
  If you do not have a Polish identity document, a personal visit to a branch with your passport is required. In major cities (Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław), English‑speaking and Russian‑speaking staff are available.

 

 Service Tariffs

Exact fees depend on the chosen package and the current pricing schedule. Approximate figures for 2026 are provided below.

For individuals (PKO Konto za Zero)

Service	Cost
Account maintenance	0 PLN (conditions: at least 1 card transaction per month)
Card issuance and maintenance	0 PLN
Internal bank transfers	0 PLN
Transfers to other banks (Elixir)	0 PLN (within the package)
Cash withdrawals at PKO BP ATMs	0 PLN

 

For legal entities (Rachunek bieżący dla firm)

Service	Approximate Cost
Account maintenance	from 0 to 49 PLN/month (depends on package and turnover)
Elixir transfers	approx. 0.50 PLN – 1 PLN (may be free in some packages)
SEPA / foreign transfers	individual, depends on amount and currency
Currency accounts (EUR, USD, GBP)	often included in the package or for an additional fee

Exact figures must be confirmed in the bank’s tariff schedule at the time of opening.

 

Conclusion: Why Choose PKO BP

PKO Bank Polski is the optimal choice for a foreigner seeking a stable, predictable bank with extensive capabilities:

• Works with non‑residents (both individuals and legal entities)

• Lenient currency control and straightforward AML procedures

•  The only bank with transfers to/from Belarus

• Ability to open a business account remotely by power of attorney

• Convenient IKO mobile app (for personal accounts)

The key is to approach document preparation seriously and provide all requested information to the bank upfront. Then the account opening will proceed smoothly and quickly.

Need help opening an account at PKO BP or another Polish bank? Contact us – we will prepare the documents, conduct a KYC consultation, and help you open an account even in complex cases!

Сообщение PKO BP Business Account for Foreigners появились сначала на Купить готовую фирму в Польше с VAT номером и расчетным счетом - IZIBIZ.