How foreigners can open an account with PKO Bank Polski: A step-by-step guide
PKO Bank Polski is one of the largest and most popular banks in Poland, offering a wide range of financial services, including opening bank accounts for foreigners from different countries. However, foreigners from not all countries can open an account. The possibility of opening an account for foreigners from certain countries depends on their citizenship, and the possibility of opening an account should be checked at a bank branch or by calling the hotline. In this article, we will look at the step-by-step process of opening an account at PKO Bank Polski for an average foreigner, as well as explain what documents are required and what you should pay attention to.
Why choose PKO Bank Polski?
PKO Bank Polski offers convenient conditions for foreigners and a wide range of banking services. Here are some reasons why you should pay attention to this bank:
- Wide network of branches and ATMs: PKO has the largest network of branches and ATMs in Poland, making cash withdrawals and banking services available anywhere in the country.
- Convenient mobile application: The bank offers modern internet banking and the iPKO mobile app, where you can easily manage your accounts, make transfers, pay bills and use other services.
Main types of accounts that can be opened at PKO Bank Polski
Before opening an account, it is important to determine which type of account best suits your needs:
- Konto za Zero is the most popular current account for everyday use. The account is free of charge if you make at least one transaction per month, such as a card payment or money transfer.
- Konto Oszczędnościowe – a savings account used to accumulate savings. Interest is accrued on the balance.
- Account for young people and students – PKO Bank Polski offers favorable conditions for young people and students up to 26 years of age. This account has low fees and convenient terms of service.
What documents do I need to open an account?
Usually, a minimum set of documents is required to open an account:
- Aforeign passport is the main identity document.
- APESEL number is a Polish identification number that facilitates the account opening procedure. If you don’t have a PESEL number, you can still open an account by providing your address of residence in Poland.
- Proof of residence in Poland can be a lease agreement, utility bill or other document confirming your Polish address.
- Certificate of employment or other sources of income – some banks may ask for a document proving your employment, but at PKO Bank Polski this requirement is not mandatory for all types of accounts.
Step-by-step process of opening an account at PKO Bank Polski
1. Choosing a branch or online application
To open an account, you can visit the nearest branch of PKO Bank Polski or use the online account opening service (via the mobile application or Internet banking). However, for foreigners, a personal visit to a branch is the most common option.
2. Submission of documents
When you visit a branch, you must provide all the necessary documents: passport or ID card, PESEL number (if any), and a document confirming your address. A bank consultant will help you fill out the application form and answer all your questions.
3. Signing the agreement
After submitting the documents and verifying your identity, the bank will prepare an account opening agreement. Carefully read the terms and conditions of the agreement, including fees, card usage rules and additional services (mobile banking, insurance, etc.). After signing the agreement, your account will be opened.
4. Receiving the card
After opening an account, you will be sent a bank card (usually within 5-7 business days). The card can be activated via Internet banking or the iPKO mobile application, where you can also manage your account.
5. Setting up Internet banking and mobile application
PKO Bank Polski offers a convenient iPKO mobile application and Internet banking, which allow you to manage your account remotely. After activating your card, be sure to set up mobile banking for easy access to your finances, making transfers, paying bills and other transactions.
What should I pay attention to when opening an account?
- Service fees: Be sure to read the terms and conditions of your account. Some accounts may have a maintenance fee if certain conditions are not met (e.g., no monthly transaction or no deposit).
- Free ATMs: PKO Bank Polski has a large number of ATMs from which you can make free withdrawals. However, please note the fees for withdrawals from ATMs of other banks.
- Account currency: If you plan to make international transactions or keep money in foreign currency, you can open a foreign currency account. This is convenient for those who travel frequently or make international payments.
- Additional services: PKO Bank Polski offers a number of additional services such as insurance, investment accounts, and credit cards. Check with the bank to find out which additional services may be useful for you.
Conclusion
PKO Bank Polski is one of the best options for foreigners to open a bank account in Poland. Thanks to simplified conditions for foreigners, modern mobile banking, and a wide network of branches and ATMs, this bank offers convenient and affordable financial services. The account opening procedure is usually simple and does not require complicated documents, which makes PKO Bank Polski a popular choice for many foreigners who have moved to live and work in Poland. Citizens of some countries are not able to open accounts in Poland. If you want to know if you can open an account in PKO Bank Polski, please contact a representative of the bank with this question.
