Open a Business in Poland – Sole Proprietorship Registration

Are you planning to start a business in Poland? One of the easiest and most popular ways to legally operate in Poland is to register a sole proprietorship (Polish: działalność gospodarcza). This type of business activity is especially popular among freelancers, consultants, IT specialists, service providers, traders, and foreign entrepreneurs who want to work with Polish clients or enter the Polish market.

In this guide, we explain how to open a sole proprietorship in Poland, what documents are required, how much it costs, and how foreign citizens can complete the registration process.

What Is a Sole Proprietorship in Poland?

A sole proprietorship in Poland (działalność gospodarcza) is a business activity registered by an individual entrepreneur in the Polish CEIDG (Central Register and Information on Economic Activity).

It is one of the simplest forms of doing business in Poland and allows an individual to:

provide services legally;
issue invoices to clients;
work with Polish and international companies;
open a business bank account;
conduct commercial activities in Poland.

This business form is similar to self-employment or individual activity in other European countries. The main feature of działalność gospodarcza is unlimited liability. The entrepreneur is personally responsible for all business obligations, including with their private assets.

Who Usually Opens a Sole Proprietorship in Poland?

A Polish sole proprietorship is commonly chosen by:

IT specialists and programmers;
consultants;
construction workers and contractors;
transport and logistics specialists;
online sellers;
marketing specialists;
freelancers;
service providers.

For many people, registering a business in Poland is a convenient way to work legally and access the Polish market.

Advantages of Opening a Business in Poland

Simple Registration Process

One of the biggest advantages of a sole proprietorship in Poland is the simple registration procedure. The business is registered through the CEIDG-1 application, and there is no government registration fee.

Low Start-Up Costs

Compared to establishing a limited liability company (sp. z o.o.), opening a sole proprietorship requires significantly less time and money.

Simplified Accounting

Depending on the type of activity and taxation method, entrepreneurs may use simplified accounting. Accounting services in Poland usually cost around 100–150 EUR per month. Some entrepreneurs can also manage basic accounting themselves.

Fast Business Launch

Once registration is completed, the entrepreneur can legally start providing services and conducting business activities in Poland.

How to Register a Sole Proprietorship in Poland?

Step 1 – Obtain a PESEL Number

A PESEL number is required for many administrative procedures in Poland, including business registration. We help foreign citizens obtain a PESEL number remotely.

Step 2 – Create a Trusted Profile (Profil Zaufany)

To manage official procedures online, entrepreneurs need access to the Polish electronic administration system. We assist with creating and verifying Profil Zaufany. The verification can be completed at the Polish Consulate in Vilnius. After activation, you can use electronic services and sign documents online.

Step 3 – Register Your Business in CEIDG

After obtaining access to the electronic system, we complete the registration of your business activity in CEIDG.

During registration, we help select:

PKD business activity codes;
taxation method;
business start date;
necessary registrations.

After approval, you receive official confirmation of your registered business activity in Poland.

Step 4 – Open a Bank Account in Poland

If required, we can help you open a bank account in Poland, including assistance with PKO Bank Polski. A Polish bank account can make business operations easier when working with Polish customers.

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Business in Poland?

The official CEIDG registration is free. However, foreign entrepreneurs often need assistance with documents, electronic registration, and administrative procedures. Business registration service costs approximately 450 EUR.

The service includes:

PESEL number assistance;
Profil Zaufany setup;
CEIDG registration;
guidance through the entire process.

Documents You Receive After Registration

After successfully registering your business in Poland, you receive:

CEIDG registration confirmation;
PESEL number;
access to Profil Zaufany;
ability to use Polish electronic government services;
legal right to conduct business activities in Poland.

Can Foreigners Open a Business in Poland?

Yes. Citizens of EU countries can generally establish and operate a business in Poland. Many foreign entrepreneurs choose Poland because of its developed economy, large consumer market, and relatively simple business registration system. However, it is important to correctly choose the business activity codes, taxation method, and understand tax obligations.

Professional Assistance with Business Registration in Poland

Our services include:

PESEL number application;
Profil Zaufany registration;
sole proprietorship registration (działalność gospodarcza);
business setup assistance;
help with opening a Polish bank account.