Poland for Digital Nomads: Visa Options, Best Cities & Cost of Living in 2025
See why Poland is a smart EU base for digital nomads, with visa tips, cost of living info, top cities for midlife remote workers, and more.
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Thinking about moving to Europe to work remotely, but not sure where to start? While places like Portugal and Spain dominate the digital nomad headlines, Poland is quietly becoming one of the smartest and most sustainable EU choices for midlife remote workers.
Affordable, culturally rich, and offering a legal pathway for self-employed professionals, Poland makes a compelling case for those ready to trade short-term visas for long-term belonging.
While there’s no official “digital nomad visa,” Poland offers an under-the-radar option through its Type D national visa or a temporary residence permit for business or freelance work. With the right paperwork and a bit of patience, you could build a legitimate, lasting life in the heart of Europe.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through why Poland might be your most overlooked opportunity yet, plus:
Info on Poland’s Type D visa, not digital nomad-specific but a residency option nonetheless
5 Polish cities & regions we love
What it costs to live in different parts of Poland
Essential info on Poland’s healthcare system, and your access to it
The catch and caveats - reasons Poland may not be for you
Let’s go!
Disclaimer: The information in this guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, immigration, or tax advice. Visa policies, eligibility requirements, and tax obligations can change frequently and vary depending on your nationality, personal circumstances, and local regulations. Always consult with a qualified immigration lawyer, tax advisor, or relevant government authority before making decisions about relocation or business setup in Poland or any other country.
Poland’s Path for Freelancers: Legitimate, If a Bit Bumpy
Poland’s national visa (Type D), combined with registering as a sole proprietor, can be an effective option for freelancers and remote professionals from outside the EU/EE. Applicants must demonstrate a legitimate business activity and meet clear documentation requirements.
Importantly, a Polish national visa or residence permit allows you to live and work in Poland, but does not grant automatic, unlimited access to live in all Schengen countries. While you can travel within the Schengen area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, your legal primary residence must remain in Poland, and extended stays in other countries are not automatically permitted.
Related:
Here’s how it works: Non-EU/EEA citizens interested in self-employment may be able to register as a sole proprietor (jednoosobowa działalność gospodarcza) in Poland after obtaining the appropriate visa or residence permit.
Successful registration, along with demonstrating ongoing business activity and sufficient means, forms the foundation for a stay that allows you to legally reside in Poland and work for clients globally—including Polish clients if your permit allows it. In practical terms, this means that if you’re a freelance graphic designer, an online educator, a consultant, or even an English teacher hoping to pick up a few gigs in Kraków, you’re not just allowed… you’re encouraged.
Note: Many non-EU nationals must first obtain residency before registering a sole proprietorship, and eligibility may vary by nationality. More on that below.
The Sweet Spot Between Simplicity and Substance
One of the most appealing parts of Poland’s setup is that it manages to be both legitimate and refreshingly straightforward. Unlike other countries where you’ll be buried in notarized translations and requests for obscure paperwork, Poland keeps the initial requirements fairly simple.
You don’t need to prove a local rental lease, open a Polish bank account, or even submit a criminal background check.
You will generally need a valid passport, completed application form, proof of sufficient financial means, valid medical insurance, proof of accommodation in Poland, and potentially a criminal record certificate.
Most of the documentation can be submitted in English. And if you apply from your home country, the visa can often be granted in just a few weeks.
There is, of course, a catch—or rather, a commitment. This isn’t a “show us your bank balance and hang out in a villa” kind of visa. You’re setting up a business in Poland. That means registering for taxes and healthcare, paying into Poland’s social security system (known as ZUS), and making a real, tangible contribution to the country.
For some, that’s a turn-off. But for many midlife nomads, it’s exactly what we’re looking for: structure, stability, and a sense of belonging in our new home.
Staying Connected and Getting Around: The Digital and Physical Infrastructure
When it comes to working remotely, Poland delivers where it counts, starting with connectivity. High-speed internet is widely available, reliable, and affordable throughout the country.
Most urban apartments and coworking spaces offer fiber-optic connections, and even smaller towns typically have solid 4G coverage. Mobile data plans are inexpensive (often under €10/month), and SIM cards are easy to purchase upon arrival.
Coworking culture is also growing fast, particularly in cities like Kraków, Warsaw, and Wrocław, where you’ll find everything from sleek startup hubs to cozy cafés with strong Wi-Fi and a plug for every seat.
As for getting around, Poland has one of the best public transportation networks in Central Europe. Trams, metros, and buses in major cities are frequent, punctual, and cheap; think €20–€30 for a monthly transit pass. Intercity trains are clean, fast, and well-connected, especially between major hubs.
And yes, Uber and Bolt are widely used in urban areas.
Accessibility varies by region, but major cities have made real strides in accommodating travelers with mobility needs, and many public trams and metro stations are now equipped with ramps, lifts, and audio announcements. Still, older buildings and smaller towns may pose some challenges, so it’s worth doing a bit of research if that’s a key concern.
Where to Land: 5 Polish Cities and Regions Digital Nomads Love
Choosing a city to call home in a new country is about more than just cost of living or coworking space density; it’s about finding a vibe that matches your rhythm, a neighborhood that feels like yours, and a lifestyle that’s both enriching and sustainable.
Poland, with its rich mix of history, modernity, and natural beauty, offers a surprising range of options for remote workers. Here are five top picks that deserve a spot on your digital nomad radar.
1. Kraków – The Cultural Heartbeat
Kraków is a city that wears its history well. With cobblestone streets winding past medieval churches and vibrant cafes, it feels like living inside a storybook… but one where the Wi-Fi is fast and the espresso is strong. Home to Poland’s oldest university, a thriving arts scene, and an impressive tech hub, Kraków strikes a rare balance between the past and the present.
For digital nomads, it’s not just the atmosphere that appeals. Coworking spaces are plentiful, the expat community is active and supportive, and the cost of living remains refreshingly manageable. If you’re someone who values culture, walkability, and a strong sense of place, Kraków might just steal your heart.
2. Warsaw – The Ambitious Capital
Warsaw often surprises people. What was once a gray, utilitarian capital has transformed into a modern, thriving metropolis with sleek skyscrapers, a serious foodie scene, and some of the best public transportation in Europe. It’s fast-paced, international, and full of opportunity.
For remote professionals looking to build connections, Warsaw offers the biggest business network in the country—including local clients and coworking spaces that cater to serious entrepreneurs.
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