Whether you’re a Brit, Australian, American, or EU national, Poland is an excellent retirement destination for you. This eastern European country is an ideal spot for retirees on a pension.
The cost of living here is very affordable compared to other western states and the quality of life is excellent.
This article will walk you through everything you need to know to enjoy life in Poland.
How is life in Poland?
Living in Poland allows you to view life from a fresh perspective with a thrilling experience. Its energetic cities advance urban life, and the country’s unspoiled countryside makes Poland the ideal location for everyone.
With its diverse climate and landscape across the country, you get to enjoy the best experience of beauty and leisure. If you live in the north or the Pomerania region, you might experience an oceanic climate filled with serene rivers, lakes, dunes, and seaside cliffs.
The southern part of the country is colder and filled with snowcapped mountains and immense woodlands.
You can enjoy life in the country regardless of your salary and economic class. Though Poland is more affordable than other EU nations, it offers the same standard of living and quality of life found throughout Europe.
Aside from being one of the best places to live in Europe, Poland has become one of Europe’s most powerful commercial hubs. The country has a very active workforce and there are still lots of jobs available nationwide.
It is no wonder millions of people choose to move to Poland over the UK, Spain, Belgium, and the US. The salary and work hours in the country are ideal and similar to those used by other EU states.
If you plan on relocating to Poland, one of the best cities to live as an ex-pat in Warsaw. Warsaw is a modern, fast-paced city that wants to enjoy an urban lifestyle in the country.
There are a lot of parks, zoos, museums, and recreation centers like the Copernicus Science Centre or the Palace of Culture and Science that you can visit to have a great time and meet new people.
Kraków is another exciting city for ex-pats and foreigners. It has some of the best museums and socio-cultural programs on Earth. There are a lot of iconic landmarks here like the National Museum, Wawel Royal Castle, the Historical Museum of Kraków, the old synagogue, the Old Town of Kraków, the Cloth Hall, and St. Mary’s Church.
If you still don’t like the idea of living in Kraków or Warsaw, then you’d love Wroclaw. Wroclaw is the capital of Silesia and belonged to Germany until 1945. It has grown to be one of Poland’s major urban areas.
Like Warsaw, Wroclaw is an excellent city for families. There are a lot of public and international schools found throughout the city, which makes this place perfect for families relocating with kids.
If you’re moving to Poland, you’ll discover that the country has grown to be a world-class state. Today, it is a full member of the European Union.
The cost of accommodation, goods, eating out, public transport and rent even in the country’s capital is super affordable compared to other European countries.
You won’t have a problem searching for an apartment that suits your taste, budget, and caliber.
Many English-speaking ex-pats are living across the country, but it may be difficult to find fluent English speakers outside major cities. So, it will be smart to learn polish if you are considering living in Poland.
Learning the basics of the local language will help a lot, especially if you are trying to make new friends or join a small community.
If you’re moving to Poland, you make sure that you are prepared for both summer and winter. On average, temperatures can fall below -6°C in December. But Poland’s weather is most enjoyed during October.
Visa and work permit
Non-EU/EEA or non-Swiss citizen, if you wish to travel, live, and work here must have a valid visa. You can complete your application in any Polish Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
There are three primary types of visas issued at the Polish mission: Airport Transit Visas (A), Schengen Visa [Short-Stay Visas (C)], and National Long-Stay Visas (D).
Here’s a list of documents you’d need to submit before you be issued a Polish travel visa.
- Completed visa application form
- Your International passport that is valid for at least three months
- Captured biometric data
- Four passport photographs
- Payment proof of visa processing fee
- Proof of travel insurance
- Proof of international medical insurance
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- A letter stating the purpose of your visit
If you plan to stay in the country longer than 90-days, you must apply for a long-term visa, which also allows them to visit other Schengen countries. For more information on visas and work permits, visit the official website of the Polish Department of Foreign Affairs.
EU nationals can travel to Poland without applying or possessing a travel visa.