Retiring to Poland from the UK: What You Need to Know
Retirement in Poland
Poland is quickly becoming one of the most popular retirement destinations for UK citizens. With its affordable cost of living, beautiful countryside, and rich culture, it’s easy to see why.
However, retiring to Poland from the UK does require some careful consideration and planning. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about retiring to Poland.
Cost of Living
One of the biggest advantages of retiring to Poland from the UK is the cost of living.
Poland has a significantly lower cost of living compared to the UK.
According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Poland is about 50% lower than in the UK. This means that you can live a comfortable life on a smaller budget. Housing, food, and transportation are all much cheaper in Poland, which makes it an attractive destination for retirees.
Healthcare
The Polish healthcare system is generally of good quality and affordable.
If you are a UK citizen, you are entitled to healthcare in Poland under the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) scheme.
However, with Brexit, the rules have changed. As of January 2021, UK citizens can still access emergency and essential healthcare in Poland using their EHIC, but this will not cover pre-existing conditions.
Therefore, it is recommended that you take out private health insurance before retiring to Poland.
Residency and Visas
As a UK citizen, you can visit Poland for up to 90 days without a visa. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a residence permit. The process can be complex and time-consuming, so it is recommended that you seek professional advice from a lawyer or immigration consultant.
Property and Real Estate
Poland has a diverse property market, with a wide range of properties available at affordable prices. The most popular areas for retirees are Krakow, Warsaw, and the Baltic Coast. It is important to note that property laws in Poland are different from those in the UK, so it is recommended that you seek legal advice before purchasing a property.
Taxes
UK citizens who retire to Poland are subject to Polish tax laws.
You will need to register with the Polish tax authorities and file a tax return each year.
The tax treaty between Poland and the UK clearly covers the treatment of pension income, which will in most cases be taxed in Poland.
UK State Pension
One of the benefits for Brits retiring in Poland is that it is one of the countries where UK State Pension continues to rise with inflation.
Language and Culture
Polish is the official language of Poland, and while many younger Poles speak English, it is recommended that you learn some Polish before retiring to Poland.
Learning the language will not only help you communicate with the locals, but it will also make your everyday life easier.
Polish culture is rich and varied, with a long history and traditions that are still celebrated today. Retiring to Poland can be an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture and learn new things.
Transportation
Poland has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains.
The cost of public transportation is much cheaper than in the UK, which can be an advantage for retirees.
Conclusion
Retiring to Poland from the UK can be a great option for those looking for an affordable and vibrant destination.
With its lower cost of living, high-quality healthcare, and diverse property market, Poland has a lot to offer retirees.
However, it is important to carefully consider all the factors involved, including residency, visas and taxation.
Read our article: Is it possible to transfer a UK pension to Poland?