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Moving to a new country is an exciting but financially demanding process. Whether you’re an English teacher, freelancer, or digital nomad, Poland offers an affordable lifestyle compared to Western Europe. However, proper financial planning is key to making your transition smooth.
Unlike some programs in other countries, employers in Poland generally do not cover relocation costs. That means it’s your responsibility to fund your move, including flights, accommodation, visas, and daily expenses before your first paycheck.
This guide breaks down every major cost, covering everything from administrative fees to living expenses and how to budget smartly for your move.
Your total relocation costs depend on your lifestyle, spending habits, and city of choice. Below is a general estimate of what you should expect to spend in your first month:
| Expense Category | Low Estimate (€) | High Estimate (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Administration (Visa, insurance, document translations) | 350 | 510 |
| Flights (Varies by region) | 50 | 1000 |
| Apartment (Deposit & first month’s rent) | 400 | 1500 |
| Temporary Accommodation (Before securing an apartment) | 100 | 800 |
| Other Moving Expenses (Internet, home setup, basic supplies) | 50 | 250 |
| Living Expenses (Groceries, transport, leisure, etc.) | 350 | 800 |
| Total Relocation Costs | €1300 | €4660 |
✅ If you don’t start work immediately, budget for two months of expenses before your first paycheck. ✅Pay in Poland is always monthly, with salaries typically arriving in the first or second week of the following month. ✅Always have an emergency fund, ideally enough for a flight home.
Your visa and administrative costs depend on your visa type and whether you apply from your home country or within Poland.
| Expense | Estimated Cost (€) |
| Document Translation | 20 – 40 |
| Travel Insurance | 195+ |
| Criminal Clearance Certificate | 18 – 40 |
| Temporary Address Registration | 50+ |
| Visa Application Fee (Embassy) | ~100 |
| Residence Permit (In Poland) | 80 – 110 |
✅Pro Tip: Ensure all paperwork is ready before departure to avoid costly delays and reapplications.
Flight prices depend on where you’re flying from and the connectivity of your departure city.
| Region | Estimated Flight Cost (€) |
| Europe / Middle East | 50 – 150 |
| North America / South & East Asia | 300 – 600 |
| Africa / South America / Australia | 500 – 1000 |
✅Ways to Save: Use Google Flights or Kiwi.com to find multi-airline connections. Consider flying into Warsaw (Poland’s most connected hub) & taking a train (€20 max) to your destination. Use nearby international airports (Berlin, Prague, Vienna) and connect via train/bus.
Before signing a lease, expect to pay one to two months’ rent upfront.
| Type of Housing | Estimated Monthly Rent (€) |
| Room in Shared Apartment (Small City) | 200 – 350 |
| Private Studio Apartment (Major City) | 500 – 850 |
| 2-3 Room Apartment (Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław) | 800 – 1500 |
For detailed housing info, check out the Complete Guide to Finding Long-Term Accommodation in Poland
| Accommodation Type | Estimated Cost (€) |
| 1 Week in a Hostel Dorm | 100 – 200 |
| 2 Weeks in a Budget Hotel / Airbnb | 300 – 600 |
| 2 Weeks in a Modern City Apartment | 600 – 800 |
Recommendation: Book at least 7-14 days of temporary accommodation to explore neighborhoods before signing a lease.
Apartments in Poland are usually fully furnished, but you’ll still need basic essentials.
| Expense | Estimated Cost (€) |
| Internet Installation | 20 – 50 |
| Bedding & Essentials | 50 – 100 |
| Cutlery & Basic Kitchenware | 30 – 70 |
| Cleaning Supplies | 20 – 50 |
| Budget Type | Estimated Monthly Cost (€) |
| Minimalist Budget (Cook at home, few activities) | 350 |
| Moderate Budget (Eat out occasionally, some entertainment) | 550 |
| High Budget (Frequent dining, nightlife, travel) | 800 |
Your relocation budget depends on your lifestyle, city choice, and job start date. Budget for two months of expenses if you won’t be working immediately.
For deeper insights, check out:
Plan smart, budget wisely, and enjoy your move to Poland!