Moving to Poland from the UK in 2026: Guide for families and returnees
If you’re planning to move to Poland from the UK in 2026, you’re part of a growing wave of families and professionals looking for stability, affordability and a stronger sense of community.
The UK’s rising living costs and complex post-Brexit environment are pushing many to look east, where Poland’s economy has matured, wages are climbing, and the quality of life feels more balanced.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the Polish-born population in Britain has fallen from over one million in 2017 to roughly 680,000 by the end of 2025. At the same time, British citizens (particularly Brits moving to Poland for work, retirement, or lifestyle) are discovering a new beginning that’s both practical and emotionally rewarding.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about how to move to Poland, from customs forms and paperwork to hidden costs, healthcare, and cultural adjustments – all based on the latest 2026 updates.
Why people are moving to Poland from the UK in 2026
Poland in 2026 isn’t the same country many left two decades ago. It’s modern, safe and forward-looking — yet still rooted in tradition and family values.
For many, it’s no longer a question of “should I move?” but rather “is Poland a good place to live?” — and increasingly, the answer is yes.
Economic strength and opportunity
Poland’s GDP growth remains around 3.5%, and unemployment stays below 5%. Infrastructure investment continues nationwide, from new transport links to digital hubs.
For Polish returnees, it’s a chance to put down roots in a more prosperous homeland. For British citizens moving from the UK to Poland, it’s an appealing blend of European convenience and financial breathing room.
Safety and lifestyle
Poland’s Safety Index is approximately 71, compared to 51 in the UK. Streets feel secure, violent crime is rare, and community networks are strong. It’s an ideal environment for families seeking peace of mind and a healthier work-life balance.
Ask anyone who’s recently relocated to Poland, and you’ll likely hear the same thing — life feels calmer, cleaner and more family-friendly.
Family and cultural connection
After years abroad, many people crave belonging — the language, food, and rhythm of everyday life. Raising children near grandparents or within Polish culture has become one of the most common motivations for returning.
Customs and paperwork: removals from the UK to Poland post-Brexit
While we aren’t visa or tax advisors (we leave the legal work to the specialists), we have spent years physically moving many families, young professionals, and retirees into their new lives abroad. We know how these rules work in the real world, but we always recommend consulting a qualified expert for the latest legal fine print.
Since Brexit, all moves between the UK and EU are treated as international relocations. The process involves a few more forms, but once you understand them, it’s straightforward – especially for anyone moving to Poland from the UK permanently.
For Brits moving to Poland, understanding these early steps avoids the biggest relocation pitfalls.
Documents you’ll need
Have these ready before your shipment leaves the UK:
- HMRC P85 Form – tells HMRC that you’re leaving the UK and prevents double taxation once you’re resident in Poland.
- Transfer of Residence (ToR1) – allows you to export personal belongings without UK import duty.
- Proof of UK residence – at least 12 months (utility bills, tenancy or council tax).
- Detailed inventory – a clear, bilingual list of items.
- Passport copies for all family members.
- Proof of property or tenancy in Poland for customs.
- Declaration for mienie przesiedleńcze – Poland’s personal relocation property exemption.
If you’re importing a vehicle, include proof of ownership and registration documents.
Under mienie przesiedleńcze, cars owned and used abroad for six months or more can qualify for duty-free import when relocating permanently.
Why the P85 and ToR1 matter
These forms are the backbone of a legal, tax-efficient move.
The P85 closes your UK tax record, ensuring pensions and savings aren’t taxed twice. The ToR1 proves your shipment is personal property – not a commercial import – streamlining customs both ways.
Completing them early saves time, stress, and potential fees at the border, a key step for anyone planning how to move to Poland the right way.
The 2026 administrative shift: biometric PESEL requirement
A key change for 2026 is the implementation of the PESEL Biometric Mandate.
From 1 January 2026, foreigners (including Polish citizens returning from abroad) must appear in person at a municipal office to provide biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photo) when applying for their PESEL number.
The previous proxy method is now obsolete. Without a PESEL, you cannot open a bank account, register for healthcare (NFZ), or set up your Profil Zaufany – the trusted digital profile used for all Polish e-government services.
Appointments fill quickly, so make this your first local task after arrival. It’s a crucial step for anyone relocating to Poland long-term.
Property and land ownership: what UK citizens must know
British citizens can freely buy apartments (mieszkania) across Poland. However, post-Brexit rules treat them as third-country nationals when purchasing standalone houses or land.
Buying property with land now requires a permit from the Ministry of the Interior and Administration (Ministerstwo Spraw Wewnętrznych i Administracji). The permit process can take up to six months and generally requires evidence of long-term residence or family ties.
Flats in multi-unit buildings are exempt, making them the easiest entry point for most buyers.
This is particularly relevant for Brits moving to Poland who may be exploring both urban and rural living options.
Importing and registering your car in Poland
Many movers bring their own vehicles, but UK cars need adjustments to meet Polish standards before registration.
Right-hand-drive modification checklist
To pass the Przegląd Techniczny (Technical Inspection):
- Adjust or replace headlights for right-hand traffic.
- Modify mirrors for the correct field of vision.
- Ensure the speedometer displays km/h.
- Register the car within 30 days of arrival.
- Carry valid EU insurance (Green Card).
Expect to spend £300–£800 on modifications, depending on the vehicle. Cars that fail inspection cannot be registered.
Hidden costs of relocation: the real arrival budget
Beyond shipping and removals, newcomers encounter administrative costs unique to Poland. Planning for them prevents nasty surprises.
Typical extra expenses
- Notary and translation fees – UK certificates often need Apostilles and translation by a sworn translator (tłumacz przysięgły).
- Rental agency commission – usually one month’s rent, paid by the tenant.
- Rental deposits – one to two months’ rent upfront.
- Vehicle and pet registration – £100–£300 combined.
- Document translation – £20–£50 per certified page.
These are small but essential parts of any move to Poland from the UK. Allowing a 10–15 percent margin in your budget keeps everything predictable and avoids stress later.
Finding work in Poland – jobs, salaries and remote options
Poland’s job market remains strong and diverse. Salaries continue to rise, and English-speaking professionals are in high demand.
Growing sectors
- IT, cybersecurity and fintech
- Engineering, construction and renewable energy
- Finance, logistics and shared services
- Healthcare, education and translation
Remote work has opened new doors. Many professionals now live in Poland while working for UK or EU employers – a trend particularly popular among Brits moving to Poland for lifestyle reasons.
For retirees, the S1 Form gives access to the Polish NFZ system with costs covered by the NHS, an important factor for anyone asking, “Can I retire to Poland from the UK?”
Education and identity: helping children adapt
For returning families, children often face the biggest cultural adjustment.
Younger ones adapt quickly, but teens can struggle with identity – sometimes dubbed “British Kid Syndrome”: feeling Polish at home but British at school.
The ORPEG programme (Ośrodek Rozwoju Polskiej Edukacji za Granicą) helps with bilingual integration, curriculum bridging, and emotional support. Many local schools now run dedicated welcome classes for returnees.
Encourage Polish media and reading before the move, but keep English alive – bilingualism becomes a lifelong advantage.
Healthcare in Poland vs the NHS
Poland’s system blends public NFZ coverage with accessible private healthcare. Once registered with ZUS and issued a PESEL, you gain public care rights similar to the NHS.
Typical private plan costs
- Individual cover: £30–£50 per month
- Family cover: £70–£100 per month
Private clinics provide short waiting times, modern facilities and English-speaking specialists. Most residents use both systems for balance and convenience.
For retirees, registering an S1 Form ensures NHS-funded access to Polish healthcare – making retiring to Poland from the UK both affordable and practical.
How Total Moving Solutions helps you move to Poland in 2026
Relocating internationally can feel daunting, but the right partner turns it into a managed process rather than a leap into the unknown.
Total Moving Solutions coordinates everything from surveys and packing to customs clearance, shipping and delivery. Your dedicated Move Manager handles paperwork — including ToR1 and mienie przesiedleńcze guidance — while keeping you informed throughout.
Services include:
- Weekly UK–Poland transport routes
- Part-load or dedicated removals
- Secure storage options
- Vehicle and pet relocation support
Plan your move with confidence, get your free removals quote today.
A new start in Poland – rediscovering home
Poland in 2026 feels renewed. Cities like Kraków, Wrocław and Gdańsk buzz with creativity, yet the pace of life remains grounded. The cost of living is manageable, the air is cleaner, and family is once again central.
For many, moving to Poland from the UK isn’t about leaving something behind … it’s about rediscovering balance and a better way of living.
If you’ve ever wondered is Poland a good place to live, you’ll find the answer in the small details: community, safety, and time to breathe.