Best Loans in Poland: Explained

Compare the best options on the market and choose the one which best adapts to your day to day needs.

Further Below: Our Guide To Loans in Poland, Everything you need to know.

1. Alior Bank

• Excellent loan conditions for both new and old borrowers
• Loans of between 500 and 80,000 PLN
• Competitive interest rates of 5.12% p.a
• Favorable repayment periods of between 3 months and 120 months
• Fixed interest rates for long-term loans
• Has few additional costs
• Provides loans for a variety of purposes
• Available to applicants with enough income

2. BNP Paribas SA

• Affordable interest rates of 6.5% p.a
• Flexible loan limits of up to 70,000 PLN
• Excellent loan conditions
• Available for all purposes
• Provides financing under less strict requirements
• Excludes insurance charges
• Loan size grows with timely repayments
• Friendly repayments of up to 7 years

3. PKO BP

• Get a loan of up to 50,000 PLN
• Provides loans to creditworthy clients
• Attractive interest rates of 6.8% p.a
• Available for a variety of purposes
• Has fewer eligibility criteria than other top banks
• Friendly repayment terms of up to 7 years
• Has few commissions

What Is a Loan?

In simple terms, a loan is a sum of money borrowed from a financial institution or lender, which you agree to repay with interest over a specified period. In Poland, loans are commonly referred to as “kredyty.”

 What are the Different Types of Loans in Poland?

Poland offers a variety of loan types to suit different needs. Understanding these options can help you choose the one that best aligns with your financial goals:

• Personal Loans (Kredyt Osobisty): Personal loans are versatile financial tools that can be used for a wide array of purposes. Whether you need to cover unexpected medical bills, plan a dream vacation, or finance home improvements, personal loans provide the flexibility you require. 
• Mortgage Loans (Kredyt Hipoteczny): If you aspire to own a piece of Poland’s picturesque landscape, a mortgage loan is your go-to option. 
  This type of loan is designed for purchasing or refinancing real estate. Mortgage loans are typically long-term commitments with repayment periods spanning several years. 
• Car Loans (Kredyt Samochodowy): Car loans are readily available for those dreaming of exploring Poland’s scenic roads or simply needing reliable transportation. These loans specifically cater to the purchase of vehicles. 
• Student Loans (Kredyt Studencki): Poland’s educational commitment extends to its financial offerings. Student loans, or “Kredyt Studencki,” assist aspiring scholars in covering tuition fees, living expenses, and educational materials. 
  These loans typically feature low-interest rates and flexible repayment terms, helping students achieve their academic goals without incurring overwhelming debt.
• Business Loans (Kredyt dla Firm): Entrepreneurs and business owners will find a range of financing options to support their ventures in Poland. 
  Business loans cater to both startups and established companies, helping them with capital injections, expansion plans, or working capital needs.
• Renovation Loans (Kredyt Remontowy): For those looking to breathe new life into their Polish homes, renovation loans provide the necessary funds for refurbishments, repairs, and upgrades. 
  These loans often feature favorable terms, including lower interest rates, as the investment tends to enhance the value of the property.
• Agricultural Loans (Kredyt Rolny): Poland’s rich agricultural heritage is supported by agricultural loans, assisting farmers with essential resources for crop cultivation, livestock care, and farm infrastructure development. 
  These loans cater to the unique needs of the agricultural sector, with flexible repayment schedules to align with the farming season.
• Consumer Loans (Kredyt Konsumencki): Consumer loans are designed for the purchase of specific consumer goods, such as electronics, appliances, or furniture. 
  They often come with special financing deals and promotional interest rates, making it easier for consumers to acquire essential items.

 When should I or should not get a Loan

Before pursuing a loan, evaluating whether it’s the right decision for your financial situation is essential. Here’s a quick reference table to help you decide:

Situation	When to Get a Loan	When Not to Get a Loan
Investing in a home or real estate.	✅Purchasing a primary residence or investment property.	❌ Speculative real estate investments without proper research and planning.
Funding education for better prospects.	✅Pursuing higher education to enhance career opportunities.	❌ Borrowing excessively for education without a clear career path or financial plan.
Consolidating high-interest debts.	✅Combining multiple high-interest debts into a single, lower-interest loan for easier management.	❌ Using a loan to pay off debts without addressing the underlying spending habits.
Emergency medical or home repairs.	✅Covering unexpected medical expenses or necessary home repairs to ensure safety and well-being.	❌ Borrowing for non-urgent expenses or cosmetic upgrades.
Business expansion or investment.	✅Expanding your business operations to capitalize on growth opportunities.	❌ Taking loans for speculative business ventures without thorough market research.
Acquiring essential assets.	✅Purchasing a reliable vehicle for personal or business use.	❌ Financing luxury items or assets that are beyond your means.
Managing unexpected financial setbacks.	✅Covering essential living expenses during job loss or economic downturns.	❌ Borrowing to maintain an unsustainable lifestyle during financial difficulties.
Entrepreneurial opportunities.	✅Seizing promising entrepreneurial ventures with a well-structured business plan.	❌ Taking loans for high-risk ventures without adequate market research or planning.

 What to look out for when picking a loan in Poland?

• Interest Rates: Interest rates are one of the most critical aspects of any loan. In Poland, interest rates can be fixed or variable. 
  Fixed rates provide payment stability, while variable rates can fluctuate with market conditions, impacting monthly payments.
• Loan Terms: The loan term refers to the duration over which you’ll repay the loan. In Poland, loan terms can vary significantly depending on the type of loan. 
  Shorter terms mean higher monthly payments but lower overall interest costs, while longer terms result in lower monthly payments but higher total interest expenses.
• Total Cost of Credit: Understanding the total cost of credit is vital. This includes the principal amount and all associated fees, interest, and charges. Lenders are required to disclose this information, so make sure to review it carefully. 
• Loan Fees and Charges: Pay attention to any additional fees or charges associated with the loan, such as origination fees, processing fees, and late payment penalties. These costs can significantly impact the overall affordability of the loan.
• Credit Score and Credit History: In Poland, credit bureaus play a crucial role in assessing your creditworthiness. 
  The largest credit bureau in Poland is BIK (Biuro Informacji Kredytowej). Lenders use your credit score and credit history to evaluate your risk as a borrower. 
• Repayment Flexibility: Evaluate whether the lender offers flexible repayment options, such as making extra payments or adjusting your monthly installments. 
  This flexibility can be valuable in managing your loan effectively and potentially saving on interest costs.
• Early Repayment Penalties: Some loans in Poland may come with penalties for early repayment. If you intend to pay off your loan ahead of schedule, be aware of these penalties, as they can impact your overall savings.
• Customer Reviews and Reputation: Research the lender’s reputation and read customer reviews. This can provide insights into their customer service, transparency, and reliability.
• Loan Insurance: Some lenders may offer loan insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances, such as job loss or disability. While it can provide peace of mind, be sure to understand the cost and terms of such insurance.

 How to qualify for a loan in Poland?

To qualify for a loan in Poland, you’ll typically need:

• Stable Source of Income: Demonstrating a steady source of income is one of the primary factors lenders consider when evaluating loan applications. 
  This income can come from employment, self-employment, rental income, or other sources. Lenders want to see that you have a reliable means to repay the loan.
• Proof of Identity and Residency: Lenders will require valid identification, such as a passport or ID card, to confirm your identity. Proof of residency, often in the form of utility bills or a rental agreement, is essential to establish your local ties.
• Good Credit History: In Poland, your credit history plays a significant role in loan approval. The largest credit bureau, BIK (Biuro Informacji Kredytowej), maintains records of your credit history. 
  A positive credit history with a history of timely payments and responsible credit use can improve your chances of approval. Conversely, a history of late payments or defaults can make it more challenging to secure a loan.
• Collateral: Some loans, such as mortgage loans or secured loans, may require collateral. 
  Collateral can be in the form of real estate, a vehicle, or other valuable assets that the lender can use to recover their funds in case of non-payment. Having valuable collateral can enhance your loan eligibility.
• Age: To qualify for a loan in Poland, you typically need to be at least 18 years old. Some loans, like senior citizen loans, may have age-specific criteria.
• Debt-to-Income Ratio: Lenders often calculate your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio to assess your ability to manage additional debt. A lower DTI, which means your existing debts are a smaller portion of your income, is generally more favorable.
• Polish Residency: While non-residents can obtain loans in Poland, being a resident can simplify the loan application process. Non-residents may need additional documentation and may face different lending terms.
• Employment Stability: Having a stable job or business is crucial. Lenders may require proof of employment, such as pay stubs or an employment contract. Self-employed individuals may need to provide business documents and financial statements.
• Co-Signer or Guarantor: If you have a limited credit history or face challenges meeting the lender’s criteria, having a co-signer or guarantor with a strong credit history can increase your chances of approval. 
  However, the co-signer is legally responsible for the loan if you default.
• Loan Purpose: Clearly communicate the purpose of the loan to the lender. Whether it’s for a car, home, education, or business, specifying the intended use of the funds can help the lender assess your eligibility more accurately.

How can Fundgecko help you get The Best Loan in Poland?

Fundgecko can play a pivotal role in helping individuals secure the best loan tailored to their specific needs.

We offer a platform to compare various loan options from different lenders and select the most appropriate one for your needs.

Fundgecko generates personalized loan recommendations that align with your unique situation, ensuring you’re presented with the most relevant options.

Click here to get started with our Loanfinder!🔥

 What documents should I have ready to present?

When applying for a loan in Poland, prepare the following documents:

• Proof of Identity: A valid proof of identity like your passport or national ID card is a fundamental requirement. 
• Proof of Residency: To confirm your residential address, lenders may request documents like utility bills (gas, water, electricity), a rental agreement, or a certificate of residence registration (Zaświadczenie o Zameldowaniu).
• Proof of Income: Lenders need to verify your ability to repay the loan. Depending on your employment status in Poland, you’ll need to provide:
  • For Employees: Recent pay stubs and employment contracts.  
  • For Self-Employed Individuals: Financial statements or tax returns.
  • For Pensioners: Pension statements or other proof of pension income.
• Bank Statements: Providing your recent bank statements can give lenders insights into your financial habits and transaction history. It can also demonstrate your income deposits and expenditures.
• Employment Verification: Lenders may request a letter from your employer confirming your current job status, salary, and length of employment. This is often required for stability assessment.
• Credit Report: While not always mandatory, it’s a good practice to obtain a copy of your credit report from BIK (Biuro Informacji Kredytowej) to check for accuracy and to be prepared for any questions regarding your credit history.
• Loan Purpose Documentation: Depending on the loan type, you may need additional documentation to justify the loan’s purpose. 
  For instance, you’ll need property documents for a mortgage, while a car loan may require the vehicle’s purchase agreement.
• Identification of Collateral: If you’re applying for a secured loan, such as a mortgage or car loan, you’ll need to provide documentation related to the collateral, including property deeds or vehicle registration.
• Other Financial Documents: Depending on your specific situation or the lender’s requirements, you might need to provide additional documents, such as proof of additional income sources, investments, or outstanding debts.
• Loan Application Form: Complete the lender’s loan application form accurately and thoroughly. 

 How can I improve my chances of getting a Loan in Poland?

To enhance your loan approval prospects:

• Build a Strong Credit History: A positive credit history is crucial when applying for loans in Poland. 
  The largest credit bureau in Poland, BIK (Biuro Informacji Kredytowej), tracks your credit activity. To build and maintain a really strong credit history in Poland:
• Pay Bills on Time: Timely payment of bills, loans, and credit card balances is essential. 
• Diversify Credit Types: A mix of credit types, such as credit cards, installment loans, and mortgages, can demonstrate responsible credit management.
• Keep Credit Utilization Low: Maintain a low credit card utilization rate, ideally below 30% of your credit limit. 
• Reduce Existing Debt: When assessing loan applications, lenders consider your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Reducing your existing debt load can improve your DTI and increase your loan eligibility.
• Correct Errors on Your Credit Report: Regularly review your credit report from BIK to identify and correct any errors or inaccuracies. Incorrect information can negatively impact your credit score and loan approval chances.
• Increase Your Income: A higher income can enhance your loan repayment ability. Consider seeking additional income sources, taking on part-time work, or pursuing career advancement opportunities.
• Stable Employment: Lenders often prefer borrowers with stable employment. Maintain consistent employment and avoid frequent job changes to demonstrate stability.
• Save for a Down Payment: If you’re applying for a mortgage or other significant loans, having a substantial down payment can make you a more attractive borrower. It reduces the lender’s risk and may result in better loan terms.
• Limit Loan Applications: Avoid applying for multiple loans simultaneously, as frequent credit inquiries can negatively affect your credit score. Carefully select the loans that align with your needs and financial situation.
• Establish a Banking History: Maintaining a stable banking relationship can be beneficial. Lenders may view this as a sign of financial responsibility. 
  Consider opening and maintaining a savings or checking account with a bank to build your banking history.
• Maintain a Good Relationship with Your Bank: If you already have an account or loans with a bank, a positive history and a good relationship with the bank can work in your favor when applying for new loans.
• Co-Signer or Guarantor: If your credit history is limited or damaged, having a co-signer or guarantor with a strong credit history can boost your eligibility for a loan.
  However, remember that the co-signer is legally responsible if you default on the loan.
• Choose the Right Lender: Different lenders have varying criteria and preferences. Research lenders that cater to your financial profile and loan needs, and consider working with one that aligns with your circumstances.

 A step-by-step guide on how to get the Best Loan in Poland

1. Assess Your Financial Needs: Begin by determining the purpose of the loan. Whether it’s for a home, education, car, or other expenses, clearly understanding your financial needs will guide your loan search.

2. Check Your Credit Report: Obtain a copy of your credit report from BIK (Biuro Informacji Kredytowej) to assess your creditworthiness. Correct any errors and address any negative items to improve your credit score.

3. Set a Budget: Determine how much you can borrow and repay. Consider your monthly income, expenses, and financial goals to establish a budget.

4. Research Loan Types: Understand the various loan types available in Poland, including personal loans, mortgage loans, car loans, and more. Choose the one that aligns best with your needs.

5. Compare Lenders: Research different lenders, such as banks, credit unions, online lenders, and financial institutions. Compare interest rates, loan terms, and fees to identify the most competitive offers.

6. Check Eligibility Criteria: Review the eligibility criteria of potential lenders. Ensure you meet the requirements, such as income, credit score, and residency status.

7. Gather Documentation: Compile the necessary documents, including proof of identity, residency, income, and any additional documents specific to your loan type.

8. Apply for Pre-Approval: Consider applying for pre-approval with multiple lenders. Pre-approval provides an estimate of the loan amount and interest rate you qualify for without impacting your credit score.

9. Compare Loan Offers: After receiving pre-approval offers, compare them based on interest rates, terms, fees, and any special features. Choose the offer that aligns with your budget and financial goals.

10. Read the Fine Print: Carefully review the loan agreement, terms, and conditions. Understand all the terms, including interest rates, repayment schedules, and any penalties for early repayment or late payments.

11. Negotiate if Possible: Don’t hesitate to negotiate with the lender. In some cases, you may be able to secure better terms or lower interest rates, especially if you have a strong credit history.

12. Finalize Your Loan Application: Finish the loan application with your selected lender, making sure all necessary documents are accurately and promptly submitted.

13. Wait for Approval: The lender will evaluate your application, perform a credit check, and determine your eligibility. Please be patient, as this process may require some time.

14. Review Loan Offer: Once approved, carefully review the final loan offer provided by the lender. Ensure that it matches the terms you agreed upon during the pre-approval stage.

15. Sign the Agreement: If you’re satisfied with the loan offer and terms, sign the loan agreement. Be sure to understand all obligations and responsibilities.

16. Receive Funds: The lender will disburse the loan funds after signing the agreement. Ensure the funds are used for their intended purpose.

17. Make Timely Payments: Throughout the loan term, make timely payments to avoid penalties and maintain a positive credit history.

Loan cost calculation example for a Loan in Poland

Let’s assume you’re taking out a personal loan of 10,000 PLN (Polish Złoty) with an annual interest rate of 10% for a 3-year term.

Step 1: Convert the annual interest rate to a monthly rate by dividing it by 12 (the number of months in a year):

• Monthly Interest Rate = Annual Interest Rate / 12
• Monthly Interest Rate = 10% / 12
• Monthly Interest Rate = 0.8333% (rounded to four decimal places)

Step 2: Calculate the number of monthly payments over the loan term:

• Loan Term (in years) = 3 years
• Number of Monthly Payments = Loan Term (in years) x 12
• Number of Monthly Payments = 3 years x 12
• Number of Monthly Payments = 36 months

Step 3: Use the EMI formula to calculate the monthly installment:

• EMI = [P x r x (1 + r)^n] / [(1 + r)^n – 1]
• Where:
  • EMI = Equated Monthly Installment
  • P = Principal Loan Amount (10,000 PLN)
  • r = Monthly Interest Rate (0.8333% or 0.008333 as a decimal)
  • n = Number of Monthly Payments (36 months)
• EMI = [10,000 x 0.008333 x (1 + 0.008333)^36] / [(1 + 0.008333)^36 – 1]
• EMI = [83.33 x (1.008333^36)] / [(1.008333^36) – 1]
• EMI ≈ [83.33 x 1.346855] / [1.346855 – 1]
• EMI ≈ 112.23 PLN (rounded to two decimal places)

So, the monthly EMI for a 10,000 PLN personal loan in Poland, with a 10% annual interest rate for a 3-year term, is approximately 112.23 PLN. This is the amount you would pay each month until the loan is fully repaid.

 Where to Get Loans in Poland?

In Poland, you can secure loans from various sources:

Traditional Banks: 

Major Polish banks like PKO Bank Polski, ING Bank Śląski, Pekao S.A., and Santander Bank Polska offer a wide range of loan products, including personal, mortgage, car, and business loans. Traditional banks are known for their reliability and stability.

Credit Unions: 

Credit unions, or “Kasy Oszczędnościowo-kredytowe,” are cooperative financial institutions that operate similarly to banks. They often provide competitive loan options, especially to their members. Credit unions in Poland cater to various communities and sectors.

Online Lenders: 

The digital lending landscape in Poland has grown significantly, with numerous online lenders offering personal loans, payday loans, and installment loans. 

Popular online lenders include Vivus, Wonga, and Ferratum. Online lenders often provide quick approval and convenient application processes.

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Lending Platforms: 

P2P lending platforms like Kokos and FinBee allow individuals to borrow directly from individual investors. Borrowers create loan listings, and investors fund them.

Microfinance Institutions: 

Microfinance institutions in Poland, such as Provident and Smart Pożyczki, specialize in providing small, short-term loans. These loans are often unsecured and may be accessible to individuals with limited credit histories.

Specialized Lenders: 

Some lenders in Poland specialize in particular types of loans, such as car loans, student loans, or business loans. For example, Volkswagen Bank offers auto financing, while higher education institutions may provide student loans.

Non-Bank Financial Institutions: 

Non-bank financial institutions, or “Niebankowe Instytucje Finansowe,” offer a variety of financial products, including loans. These institutions may provide loans to individuals with varying credit histories, but interest rates can be higher.

Employers: 

Some employers in Poland offer employee loans as a benefit. These loans often have favorable terms and may be convenient for employees seeking financial assistance.

Government Programs: 

The Polish government offers various loan programs to support specific sectors, such as agriculture, small businesses, and education. These programs may come with subsidized interest rates and favorable repayment terms.

Credit Card Companies: 

Credit card companies in Poland, like Visa and MasterCard, offer credit lines to cardholders. While credit cards are not traditional loans, they allow cardholders to access funds up to their credit limits and repay them over time.

Conclusion

When it comes to getting a loan in Poland, it’s important to know your options, meet the requirements, and make smart financial choices. With this guide in hand, you have the knowledge to make well-informed decisions, find the perfect loan, and reach your financial objectives. 

Whether it’s a personal loan, mortgage, or business loan, remember to manage your finances wisely and keep up with your payments for a brighter financial future ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does my BIK credit score affect loan eligibility in Poland?

Your BIK credit score plays a significant role in loan approval. While the minimum score varies, a higher BIK score generally increases your chances of securing a loan in Poland.

2. Can non-residents apply for loans in Poland?

Non-residents can apply for loans in Poland, but eligibility criteria may vary. Non-residents may need additional documentation and face different lending terms.

3. How long does it take to get a loan approved in Poland?

Loan approval times may differ based on the lender and the specific loan type. Typically, receiving approval takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

4. Are there penalties for early loan repayment in Poland?

Yes, some loans in Poland may have penalties for early repayment. Reviewing your loan agreement carefully to understand potential charges is essential.

5. What happens if I miss a loan payment in Poland?

Missing a loan payment can result in late payment fees and negatively impact your credit score. It’s crucial to communicate with your lender if you anticipate difficulty making a payment to explore options like loan restructuring or deferment.

Glossary for Poland loan terminology

Polish Term	English translation
Agencja kredytowa	Credit agency
Automatyczna płatność rachunków	Automatic bill payment
Bezrobocie	Unemployment
Brak płatności, opóźnienia w płatnościach, odsetki za zwłokę	Non-payment, late payment, interest on arrears
Brak płatności, zaległości płatnicze	Non-payment, delinquency
Czas trwania zatrudnienia	Duration of employment
Dane osobowe	Personal data
Debet w rachunku bieżącym	Current account overdraft
Dokumenty	Documents
Gwarant	A guarantor is someone who promises to make sure you repay the loan completely. Lenders ask for guarantors when your credit history isn’t good enough. If this happens, the guarantor is legally responsible for paying back the loan
Historia kredytowa, sytuacja finansowa	Credit history, financial standing
Kaucja zabezpieczająca	Security Deposit
Konto bankowe, dane bankowe	Bank account, bank details
Koszty aplikacji, koszty nabycia	Application fee: the fee charged by a lender to cover costs associated with processing the loan
Kwota pożyczki	Loan amount
Liczba dzieci uprawnionych do zasiłku rodzinnego	Number of children entitled to child benefits
Linia kredytowa	Line of credit, official document that shows the rules for a personal loan
Mała pożyczka	Small loan
Obligacje osób trzecich do wykupu	Third-party obligations to be redeemed
Obowiązek przedstawienia dowodów	Obligation to provide evidence
Ogólne warunki handlowe	General terms and conditions
Okres kredytowania	Tenure of the loan
Opcja ochrony płatności	Option on Payment protection
Oprocentowanie pożyczek	Loan Interest rates
Pierwsza rata płatna w dniu	First installment payable on
Płatność w ratach	Payment in installments
Podpisana umowa	Signed contract
Pożądana pożyczka	Loan desired
Pożyczka lombardowa, gwarancje, zabezpieczenia	Lombard loan, guarantees, collateral(asset that backs your loan)
Pożyczka osobista, pożyczka bez zabezpieczenia	Personal Loan, unsecured loan
Pożyczka zabezpieczona	Secured loan
Pożyczkobiorca	Borrower
Pożyczkodawca	Lender
Profesjonalne dane	Professional Data
Relacje zawodowe	Professional relationship
Roczna efektywna stopa procentowa	Effective annual interest rate
Śmierć, wypadek, inwalidztwo, bezrobocie (okres oczekiwania 3 miesiące (z wyjątkiem przypadkowej śmierci)).	Death, accident, incapacity for work, unemployment (waiting period of 3 months (except death due to accident))
Stała stopa debetowa	Fixed debit rate
Stawka	Rate
Stopa procentowa	Interest rate
Typ rezydencji	Residence type
Ubezpieczenie ochrony płatności	Payment protection insurance
Ubezpieczenie społeczne	Social security system
Wniosek o pożyczkę	Borrowing request
Wydatki	Expenses
Wypłacalność	Solvency, a credit score is an individual’s valuation and ability to repay a loan
Zarobki	Earnings
Zmiana harmonogramu spłaty zadłużenia	Rescheduling of debt
Zmienne oprocentowanie	Variable interest rate
Zwolnienie chorobowe, niepełnosprawność	Sick leave, disability
Zysk netto	Net income

About this page, our methodology

What this page is for: Our goal is to help you get the best financing for your needs. Therefore, here we explain you what credits with payday guarantee are, how you can compare them to know which one suits you and which offers are the most attractive right now.

Source: The information regarding the main characteristics of payday loans and their current regulation comes from Law 16/2011 on consumer credit contracts among other reference portals.

Methodology: The data relating to the conditions of these products (amount, term, interest, etc.) have been obtained through online research and consultation of the official statistics of the aforementioned reference sources.

About Fundgecko: We are an online comparison site specialized in personal finance and home economics products. Here you can, in addition to comparing the conditions of all offers, find quality information that will help you identify the payday loans that best suit your needs.

Note: The services we offer are totally free for the user, as Fundgecko obtains its income from advertising and its featured products.