How to Register a Company in Poland from the US?: Procedure & Requirements

As American businesses look for strategic entry points into Europe, Poland has quietly become one of the most promising destinations for international expansion. If you’re a U.S.-based entrepreneur or investor looking to tap into the European market, registering a company in Poland might be your most cost-effective and scalable move yet.

In this guide, we’ll cover the step-by-step procedure to register a company in Poland from the US. Furthermore, we will be covering the requirements, costs, and benefits of incorporating a company in Poland from the United States. 

Why Register a Company in Poland from the USA?

Poland offers a compelling mix of affordability, strategic location, skilled workforce, and business-friendly policies.

Here’s why American entrepreneurs are setting their sights on Poland:

1. Gateway to the EU Market

Poland is a member of the European Union, granting your company direct access to 27 EU nations. It’s a springboard for exporting services or products across Europe without additional tariffs or trade barriers.

2. Low Setup and Operating Costs

Compared to Western European nations, Poland offers much lower labor and office costs—without compromising on talent. This makes it a great location for startups and SMEs looking to reduce burn rate while scaling internationally.

3. Tech and Startup-Friendly Ecosystem

Poland is rapidly growing as a tech hub, especially in cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw. The country has a rich talent pool of developers, engineers, and bilingual experts.

4. Favorable Tax Benefits

Poland has a 19% corporate income tax rate, with small taxpayers paying only 9%. R&D and innovation tax reliefs also support IP-driven businesses.

5. Strong US-Poland Economic Ties

The U.S. and Poland maintain a robust trade relationship, with support from American Chambers of Commerce and local business networks for U.S. investors.

Types of Companies U.S. Citizens Can Register in Poland

As an American entrepreneur, you are legally permitted to own 100% of a Polish company. Poland offers several business entity types that cater to different goals, business sizes, and growth strategies.

Below are the most common structures available to foreign investors:

1. Limited Liability Company (Sp. z o.o.)

A Polish limited liability company is by far the most common legal structure among international entrepreneurs, including US residents. 

It strikes the perfect balance between flexibility, limited liability, and cost-efficiency. The minimum share capital for an S.p.zoo is in PLN 5,000 (approximately €1,200). 

2. Joint Stock Company

This structure is best suited for large-scale operations, especially those considering public listing or attracting substantial outside investment. A joint stock firm has a minimum share capital of PLN 100,000.

3. Sole Proprietorship 

This form is limited to EU/EEA residents or non-EU nationals (like U.S. citizens) who hold valid Polish residency permits. In a sole proprietorship, the owner is personally responsible for all obligations. 

4. Branch Office

A branch office in Poland serves as an extension of your company’s headquarters in the United States. While it allows you to establish a presence in the local market, it has limited operational independence. 

All operations must be consistent with the parent company’s business scope, and the parent is solely responsible for the branch’s duties.

5. Subsidiary

A subsidiary, on the other hand, is a separately incorporated Polish entity—usually set up as a Sp. z o.o.—that’s wholly or majority-owned by the U.S. parent. 

It enjoys full legal independence, can pursue broader business activities, and provides limited liability protection to the parent company.

Step-by-Step Process to Set Up a Business in Poland from the USA

Here’s a streamlined roadmap to help you get started with your company registration:

1. Select the Right Legal Structure

Most U.S. entrepreneurs opt for a Sp. z o.o. for ease of ownership, tax efficiency, and scalability.

2. Reserve Your Company Name

The name must be distinctive and in accordance with Polish naming rules. You can check name availability online through the National Court Register (KRS).

3. Prepare and Notarize the Articles of Association

The Articles of Association outline the company’s structure, shareholders, and operational rules. These can be created electronically or through a Polish notary.

4. Register with the National Court Register (KRS)

File the application online through the S24 platform or submit physical documentation. This step formalizes your business’s legal existence in Poland.

5. Obtain NIP, REGON, and VAT Numbers

• NIP: Tax identification number
• REGON: Statistical ID number from the Central Statistical Office
• VAT: Required if your business exceeds PLN 200,000 in annual revenue or operates cross-border in the EU

6. Open a Corporate Bank Account

Polish banks may require in-person verification, but many offer remote setup options with notarized documents or through a legal representative.

7. Register with Social Insurance Institution (ZUS)

If you plan to hire employees in Poland, registering with ZUS is mandatory for social security and health insurance contributions.

Documents Required to Expand a Business in Poland for U.S. Citizens

To register a company in Poland from the USA, you will need:

• Valid U.S. passport or national ID
• Polish address (can be a virtual office)
• Articles of Association
• Proof of share capital (for Sp. z o.o.)
• Power of Attorney (if using a representative)
• Business registration application forms
• Notarized declarations from shareholders/directors

Taxation and Compliance for U.S. Citizens

Poland offers a transparent and investor-friendly tax regime, making it easier for U.S. citizens to manage cross-border business operations efficiently. 

Here’s what you need to know:

• Corporate Income Tax (CIT): Standard CIT rate is 19%, while small businesses (meeting specific revenue thresholds) benefit from a reduced 9% rate—ideal for startups and SMEs.
• Withholding Tax: Dividends distributed to foreign shareholders are subject to a 19% withholding tax, which can be lowered under the U.S.–Poland Double Taxation Treaty, helping you avoid paying tax twice on the same income.
• Double Taxation Agreement: Due to the bilateral tax treaty, U.S. citizens and entities are protected from being taxed both in the U.S. and Poland on the same profits.
• Value-Added Tax (VAT): The standard VAT rate is 23%, with lower rates of 8% and 5% applied to certain products and services, depending on industry classification.
• Annual Compliance Requirements: Every registered company must file annual financial statements, including a balance sheet and profit & loss account, with Poland’s National Court Register (KRS).

How OnDemand International Can Help You Set Up in Poland?

At OnDemand International, we specialize in helping U.S. businesses expand globally with ease. Our Poland Desk offers:

• End-to-end company registration
• Virtual address and legal compliance
• VAT, NIP, and REGON setup
• Bank account assistance
• Resident director or legal rep services
• Tax, accounting, and payroll support

We’ve already helped 500+ entrepreneurs successfully enter European markets—yours could be next.

Conclusion

Expanding your U.S. business to Poland offers more than just a European address—it opens doors to the entire EU market, lower operating costs, and a thriving talent ecosystem. Whether you’re launching a startup, scaling an existing enterprise, or seeking a cost-efficient gateway to Europe, Poland provides the legal flexibility, tax benefits, and growth potential to make your expansion a success.

With remote registration options, investor-friendly regulations, and full foreign ownership rights, registering a company in Poland from the USA has never been easier. Contact our incorporation experts and we will assist you with the entire setup process—end to end.