Company Registration in Poland for Foreigners: Remote Setup Using ePUAP / S24

Poland’s growing economy, central location in Europe, and friendly investment climate make it a top choice for foreign entrepreneurs. And thanks to digital tools like S24 and ePUAP, opening a company in Poland is now more accessible than ever—even if you’re not physically in the country.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of remote company registration in Poland, explain the difference between the S24 and ePUAP systems, and highlight what you need to prepare for a smooth setup.

Why Start a Business in Poland?

Foreigners are increasingly interested in company registration in Poland due to several advantages:

• Access to the EU market

• Competitive operational costs compared to Western Europe

• Skilled multilingual workforce

• Transparent legal and tax system

• Favorable treatment for foreign-owned entities

Whether you’re expanding your business or starting fresh in the European Union, registering a company in Poland can be an excellent move for long-term growth.

Can You Register a Company in Poland Remotely?

Yes, you can now register a company in Poland remotely, without visiting the country. This is possible through two main systems:

1. S24 System

A simplified online platform for quick company setup. Ideal for standard company formations using template documents.

2. ePUAP (Trusted Profile)

A more comprehensive digital identity system for Polish residents and some foreigners. Requires a PESEL (Polish national identification number), but it offers broader administrative access.

Let’s explore both options in more detail.

Option 1: Register a Company Using the S24 Platform

The S24 system is designed for fast online incorporation of a limited liability company (Sp. z o.o.). Here’s how it works:

Step-by-Step S24 Registration

1. Create an Account on the S24 Portal
   Visit the Ministry of Justice’s website and create an S24 account. Interface is available in Polish, so professional help or translation tools might be needed.

2. Prepare Company Details
   You’ll need to provide:

   • Company name and address in Poland

   • Names and passport details of directors/shareholders

   • Company business activity codes (PKD codes)

   • Share capital details (minimum PLN 5,000)

3. Sign Company Documents
   The S24 platform provides standard templates for the Articles of Association. These must be signed electronically using a qualified electronic signature (recognized by EU law). Foreigners must obtain such a signature in advance.

4. Pay the Registration Fee
   The fee is PLN 350 and must be paid via the system during the submission.

5. Wait for Court Approval
   Applications are usually reviewed within 24–48 hours. Once approved, the company is officially registered in Poland.

Pros of S24

• Fast turnaround

• Fully online

• Cost-effective

Cons

• Only standard documents allowed

• Requires a qualified electronic signature

• Limited customization

Option 2: Register Using ePUAP (Trusted Profile)

If you’re planning a broader presence in Poland or want more control over company documents, ePUAP might be a better option.

What is ePUAP?

ePUAP is Poland’s official electronic platform for public services. With it, you can digitally sign documents, interact with government offices, and even file tax forms.

How to Use ePUAP as a Foreigner

1. Obtain a PESEL Number
   To use ePUAP, you need a PESEL (Polish ID number). You can apply for one through a Polish consulate or with legal representation in Poland.

2. Create a Trusted Profile
   After obtaining PESEL, set up an ePUAP profile through a Polish office or consulate.

3. Prepare Custom Articles of Association
   Unlike S24, with ePUAP you can customize company statutes. This is useful for investors with specific agreements or multiple shareholders.

4. Submit the Application to KRS (National Court Register)
   The application and all supporting documents are submitted through the ePUAP platform.

5. Pay Fees and Wait for Approval
   The registration fee is typically PLN 600 (PLN 500 for court, PLN 100 for publication). Approval may take several days to a couple of weeks.

Pros of ePUAP

• Greater flexibility in documentation

• Long-term use for other administrative tasks

• Suitable for complex setups

Cons

• Slower than S24

• Requires PESEL and in some cases, presence at consulate

• Setup process can be more complicated

Also Read: Types of Company Incorporation in St. Kitts and Nevis

After Registration: What’s Next?

Once your company is registered, there are a few essential steps:

• Open a Polish Business Bank Account
  You may need to be physically present or use a representative with power of attorney.

• Register for Taxes (NIP, VAT)
  All companies must register with the tax office. VAT registration is mandatory if your turnover exceeds PLN 200,000 annually.

• Enroll with ZUS (Social Security)
  If you have employees, you must register with the social insurance office.

• Hire a Local Accountant
  All companies are legally required to maintain proper bookkeeping in Polish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping Legal Review
   Even with templates, it’s wise to have a legal advisor review your Articles of Association.

2. Incorrect PKD Codes
   Wrong activity codes can cause issues later, especially during tax registration or licensing.

3. Delays in VAT Registration
   It’s not automatic—you must apply separately, and authorities often request supporting documents.

4. Assuming Everything Can Be Done Remotely
   While most of the process is remote, some steps (like bank account setup) may still need local involvement.

Final Thoughts

Thanks to digital platforms like S24 and ePUAP, it’s now possible to register a company in Poland remotely—a game-changer for foreign entrepreneurs.

Whether you choose the fast-track S24 system or the more flexible ePUAP route, opening a company in Poland no longer requires weeks of travel or complex bureaucracy. As always, seeking professional legal or accounting advice will help ensure a smooth and compliant setup.

With the right planning and tools, your Polish business can be up and running in no time—giving you access to one of Europe’s most dynamic markets.

Also Read: Documents Required for Company Registration in Germany

FAQs

1. Can I open a company in Poland without visiting the country?
Yes, both S24 and ePUAP allow remote company registration. However, certain steps like opening a bank account may require a visit or local representative.

2. What kind of company can foreigners register in Poland?
The most common structure is a Sp. z o.o. (limited liability company), which allows full foreign ownership.

3. What is the minimum share capital required?
The minimum share capital for a Polish Sp. z o.o. is PLN 5,000, which must be declared during registration.

4. Do I need to speak Polish to register a company?
While the systems are in Polish, you can register with the help of a bilingual agent, lawyer, or translator.