Mandatory Bank Verification: Answer or Lose Access

10 March 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Polish banks require mandatory bank verification forms. Answer about income or face account limits. Guidance for expats.

Millions of Poles logging into their bank apps now face a mandatory form about income and planned transactions, a step called bank verification. Consequently, banks warn customers that failure to answer may lead to blocked access to accounts and cards.

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What changed and why banks require answers

Banks started sending questionnaires in January and February. Moreover, regulators ordered stricter checks. The goal aims to fight money laundering and terrorism financing. Therefore, banks must comply with the law. In addition, the institution updates records to meet anti-money-laundering rules. The questionnaire asks about income sources and planned transfers. Sometimes it also asks about crypto trading plans. Many people feel this invades privacy. However, banks have no choice. The law forces them to verify customers more often.

bank verification: practical effects for customers

When you log in, the bank shows a popup or a form. Consequently, you cannot proceed without answering. Banks may restrict payments or freeze access. Moreover, they send reminders by email or SMS. If you ignore them, the bank will call for documents. Therefore, you must provide proof of income or explain planned transfers. You can use payslips, tax returns, or contracts. In addition, foreign residents should prepare work contracts or bank statements. Polish documents include PESEL for ID, ZUS records for social security, and NFZ for health coverage. (PESEL is a national ID number, ZUS is the social insurer, NFZ funds healthcare.)

Why this matters to expats and what to prepare

Many expats lack Polish paperwork. Consequently, they may struggle to answer questions. However, banks accept foreign tax forms and employer letters. Therefore, keep recent payslips and a signed employment contract ready. In addition, bring proof of address and your passport. Some banks may ask for a PESEL or residency card. Moreover, registering for PESEL helps with long-term banking. If you work as a freelancer, prepare invoices and client contracts. The process may feel bureaucratic. However, it protects the whole banking system from illicit flows.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you live in Poland, answer the bank’s questions quickly to avoid frozen access. Keep recent payslips, tax returns, signed employment contracts, and proof of address ready. If you lack a PESEL number, carry your passport and residency card. Also prepare international tax documents and bank statements if you earned abroad. ZUS refers to social security contributions and NFZ funds health care, so banks may ask about these records. Finally, contact your bank branch or helpline if you need help filling the form.

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