Join: Expats in Poland

Savings Accounts in Poland

Looking for the best savings accounts in Poland with high interest rates? Our comprehensive guide compares term deposits, high-yield savings accounts, and investment options from top Polish banks. Whether you're an expat, local resident, or investor, find the perfect savings solution to grow your money safely with competitive rates and flexible terms.

Table of Contents

ING Bank Śląski logo

ING Bank Śląski

High-yield savings seekers

Interest Rate:Up to 7.0% APY
English Support:Yes
Min. Deposit:1,000 PLN
Open Savings Account

Key Features

Highest savings rates in Poland
Flexible terms
Online management
No penalties

Account Details

Max Amount:500,000 PLN
Mobile App:Very Good
Account Types:Konto Oszczędnościowe, Lokata Terminowa

Summary

Market-leading interest rates up to 7%
Flexible withdrawal options
Rates can change frequently
mBank logo

mBank

Tech-savvy savers and digital banking

Interest Rate:Up to 6.5% APY
English Support:Yes
Min. Deposit:500 PLN
Open Savings Account

Key Features

Digital-first savings
Real-time rates
Mobile optimization
Automated transfers

Account Details

Max Amount:1,000,000 PLN
Mobile App:Outstanding
Account Types:mLokata, mOszczędności

Summary

Award-winning mobile savings management
Automated savings features
Competitive rates but not always highest
PKO Bank Polski logo

PKO Bank Polski

Conservative savers and beginners

Interest Rate:Up to 6.0% APY
English Support:Yes
Min. Deposit:100 PLN
Open Savings Account

Key Features

Largest bank stability
Low minimums
Branch network
Government backing

Account Details

Max Amount:Unlimited
Mobile App:Excellent
Account Types:Lokata Standardowa, Lokata Młodych

Summary

Most trusted bank in Poland
Lowest minimum deposits
Interest rates below top competitors
Santander Bank Polska logo

Santander Bank Polska

International savers and high-net-worth individuals

Interest Rate:Up to 5.8% APY
English Support:Yes
Min. Deposit:1,000 PLN
Open Savings Account

Key Features

International expertise
Premium services
Multi-currency options
Wealth management

Account Details

Max Amount:Unlimited
Mobile App:Very Good
Account Types:Lokata Standard, Lokata Walutowa

Summary

International banking experience
Multi-currency savings options
Higher minimum deposits required
Millennium Bank logo

Millennium Bank

Wealth building and premium services

Interest Rate:Up to 5.5% APY
English Support:Yes
Min. Deposit:2,000 PLN
Open Savings Account

Key Features

Premium banking
Personalized service
Wealth advisors
Exclusive rates

Account Details

Max Amount:Unlimited
Mobile App:Good
Account Types:Lokata Premium, Private Banking Deposits

Summary

Dedicated wealth management advisors
Personalized savings strategies
High minimum deposit requirements
Alior Bank logo

Alior Bank

Polish speakers seeking promotions

Interest Rate:Up to 5.2% APY
English Support:Limited
Min. Deposit:500 PLN
Open Savings Account

Key Features

Competitive rates
Flexible terms
Quick decisions
Promotional offers

Account Details

Max Amount:500,000 PLN
Mobile App:Good
Account Types:Lokata Standardowa, Lokata Promocyjna

Summary

Competitive promotional rates
Flexible deposit terms
Limited English support
Bank Pekao logo

Bank Pekao

Traditional savers and stability seekers

Interest Rate:Up to 4.8% APY
English Support:Limited
Min. Deposit:1,000 PLN
Open Savings Account

Key Features

Traditional banking
Stable institution
Corporate heritage
Long-term focus

Account Details

Max Amount:Unlimited
Mobile App:Good
Account Types:Lokata Tradycyjna, Lokata Korporacyjna

Summary

Long-established banking institution
Stable and secure deposits
Lower interest rates
Credit Agricole Bank logo

Credit Agricole Bank

Regional savers and agricultural sector

Interest Rate:Up to 4.5% APY
English Support:Limited
Min. Deposit:1,500 PLN
Open Savings Account

Key Features

French heritage
Regional focus
Agricultural ties
Cooperative model

Account Details

Max Amount:250,000 PLN
Mobile App:Average
Account Types:Lokata Regionalna, CA Oszczędności

Summary

Cooperative banking model
Regional expertise
Lower interest rates

Important Information About Polish Savings

All deposits in Polish banks are protected by the Bank Guarantee Fund (BFG) up to 100,000 EUR per person per bank. Interest rates shown are indicative and can change. Always check current rates before opening an account. Interest earned on savings accounts is subject to 19% tax in Poland, which banks automatically deduct.

Why You Can Trust Our Savings Guide

We are independent from the financial institutions that we review and compare.

We are transparent about our research methods and evaluation criteria for savings products.

Our content is carefully fact-checked to ensure accurate and up-to-date interest rates and terms.

We have extensive experience with Polish savings products and understand what savers need.

Choosing the Right Savings Account in Poland

When selecting a savings account in Poland, it's crucial to consider factors such as interest rates, minimum deposits, withdrawal flexibility, and safety guarantees. The Polish savings market offers competitive rates, especially for term deposits, with some banks offering promotional rates above 7% APY for limited periods.

Having a Polish savings account is essential for building wealth and protecting against inflation. Local accounts offer higher interest rates than many international options, and all deposits are protected by the EU-standard Bank Guarantee Fund up to 100,000 EUR per person per bank.

Polish zloty bills - savings and interest

Maximize your savings with competitive Polish interest rates.

Photo: Polish Zloty Currency

Understanding Interest Rates and Terms

Polish savings accounts offer some of the highest interest rates in Europe, with term deposits (lokaty terminowe) currently offering 4-7% APY depending on the bank and deposit term. ING Bank Śląski andmBank typically offer the most competitive rates for both regular savings and term deposits.

Interest rates are influenced by the National Bank of Poland's reference rate and can change frequently. Term deposits lock in rates for the full period (3 months to 5 years), while regular savings accounts may have variable rates that can be adjusted by the bank with notice.

Deposit Safety and Guarantees

All deposits in Polish banks are protected by the Bank Guarantee Fund (Bankowy Fundusz Gwarancyjny - BFG) up to 100,000 EUR per depositor per bank. This is the same protection level as other EU countries and applies to both Polish residents and foreigners with accounts in Poland.

Major banks like PKO Bank Polski, mBank, and ING are additionally supervised by European banking authorities and undergo regular stress tests. For maximum protection, consider spreading large deposits across multiple banks to stay within the 100,000 EUR guarantee limit per institution.

Tax on Savings Interest

Interest earned on savings accounts in Poland is subject to 19% capital gains tax (podatek Belki). Banks automatically deduct this tax before crediting interest to your account, so you receive the net amount. There's no additional tax reporting required for standard savings accounts.

For non-residents, tax treatment may vary depending on tax treaties between Poland and your country of residence. Consult with a tax advisor if you have questions about your specific situation, especially for large deposits or if you're planning to move between countries.

High-Yield Savings Options for Maximum Returns

Polish banks offer some of the highest savings rates in Europe. Here are the top options for maximizing your returns while keeping your money safe and accessible.

ING Bank logo

ING Bank Śląski

Highest Rates

Currently offering up to 7% APY on term deposits, ING provides the highest rates in Poland. Their Konto Oszczędnościowe offers competitive rates with no early withdrawal penalties.

✓ Interest rate: Up to 7.0% APY
✓ Minimum deposit: 1,000 PLN
✓ English support: Full support
✓ Withdrawal: Flexible terms
mBank logo

mBank

Best Digital

mBank's eLokata offers up to 6.5% APY with full mobile management. Their automated savings features help you save consistently with competitive rates.

✓ Interest rate: Up to 6.5% APY
✓ Minimum deposit: 500 PLN
✓ Management: Full mobile app
✓ Features: Automated savings
PKO Bank Polski logo

PKO Bank Polski

Most Secure

Poland's largest bank offers up to 6% APY with the lowest minimum deposits (100 PLN). Perfect for conservative savers who prioritize security and accessibility.

✓ Interest rate: Up to 6.0% APY
✓ Minimum deposit: 100 PLN
✓ Security: Government-backed
✓ Access: 20,000+ ATMs

Term Deposits vs Regular Savings Accounts

Understanding the difference between term deposits (lokaty terminowe) and regular savings accounts is crucial for maximizing your returns. Term deposits offer higher interest rates but require you to lock in your money for a specific period, while regular savings provide flexibility with lower rates.

The choice depends on your financial goals, how long you can commit your money, and whether you need immediate access to funds. Let's compare both options to help you decide.

Term deposits vs savings comparison

Choose the right savings strategy for your financial goals.

Photo: cottonbro studio - pexels.com

Term Deposits (Lokaty Terminowe)

Advantages:

  • • Higher interest rates (4-7% APY)
  • • Guaranteed returns for full term
  • • Protection against rate decreases
  • • Various term options (3 months - 5 years)

Considerations:

  • • Money locked for fixed period
  • • Early withdrawal penalties
  • • Higher minimum deposits
  • • Miss out if rates increase

Best for: Money you won't need for 6+ months, maximizing returns

Regular Savings Accounts

Advantages:

  • • Immediate access to funds
  • • No early withdrawal penalties
  • • Lower minimum deposits
  • • Can benefit from rate increases

Considerations:

  • • Lower interest rates (1-3% APY)
  • • Rates can decrease anytime
  • • Temptation to spend savings
  • • Variable returns

Best for: Emergency funds, short-term goals, flexible access needs

Hybrid Strategy

Many savers use a combination: keep 3-6 months of expenses in a regular savings account for emergencies, and put longer-term savings in term deposits for higher returns. This balance provides both security and growth.

Savings Strategies for Expats in Poland

As an expat in Poland, you have unique opportunities to take advantage of competitive savings rates while building wealth in a stable EU economy. Here are proven strategies to maximize your savings.

Currency Diversification Strategy

PLN Savings (Recommended)

  • • Higher interest rates (4-7% APY)
  • • Best for Poland residents
  • • Protection against Euro weakness
  • • Take advantage of PLN strength

Best for: Long-term Poland residents, local income earners

EUR/USD Savings

  • • Lower rates (0.1-2% APY)
  • • Currency stability
  • • Easy international transfers
  • • Hedge against PLN volatility

Best for: Temporary residents, international income

Term Deposit Ladder Strategy

A deposit ladder involves splitting your savings into multiple term deposits with different maturity dates. This strategy provides regular access to funds while maximizing interest rates.

Example 12-Month Ladder with 60,000 PLN:

3-Month Term
15,000 PLN @ 5.5%
Access: Every 3 months
6-Month Term
15,000 PLN @ 6.0%
Access: Every 6 months
9-Month Term
15,000 PLN @ 6.3%
Access: Every 9 months
12-Month Term
15,000 PLN @ 6.8%
Access: Annually

As each deposit matures, reinvest in a new 12-month term for maximum rates with regular liquidity.

Emergency Fund Strategy

Maintain 3-6 months of living expenses in a high-yield regular savings account for emergencies. This should be separate from your wealth-building savings and easily accessible.

Minimum (3 months)

For stable employment, dual income households

Standard (4-5 months)

For most expats, freelancers, single income

Conservative (6+ months)

Uncertain visa status, seasonal work

Essential Polish Savings Terms

Understanding key Polish banking terms will help you navigate savings products and communicate with bank staff. Here are the most important terms you'll encounter.

Lokata terminowa
Term Deposit / Fixed Deposit
Oprocentowanie
Interest Rate
Kapitalizacja
Compounding
Wypłata wcześniejsza
Early Withdrawal
Podatek Belki
19% Capital Gains Tax
BFG
Bank Guarantee Fund
Minimalna wpłata
Minimum Deposit
Termin zapadalności
Maturity Date
Odsetki
Interest Payment

Language tip: Most modern Polish banks offer English interfaces in their mobile apps. mBank's app and ING's platform are completely available in English, making savings management easy for expats.

Frequently Asked Questions About Polish Savings Accounts

What are the highest savings rates currently available in Poland?

Currently, ING Bank Śląski offers the highest rates up to 7% APY, followed by mBank at 6.5% APY. These rates are often promotional and may vary based on deposit amount and term length. Always check current rates as they change frequently based on National Bank of Poland policy rates.

Are my savings safe in Polish banks?

Yes, all deposits in Polish banks are protected by the Bank Guarantee Fund (BFG) up to 100,000 EUR per person per bank. This is the same protection level as other EU countries. Major banks like PKO, ING, and mBank are additionally supervised by European banking authorities, providing extra security layers.

How much tax do I pay on savings interest in Poland?

Interest earned on savings accounts in Poland is subject to 19% capital gains tax (podatek Belki). Banks automatically deduct this tax before paying interest to your account, so you receive the net amount. There's no additional reporting required for standard savings accounts.

What's the difference between regular savings and term deposits?

Regular savings accounts offer flexibility with lower rates (1-3% APY), while term deposits (lokaty terminowe) offer higher rates (4-7% APY) but lock your money for a fixed period (3 months to 5 years). Term deposits typically have penalties for early withdrawal, while savings accounts allow immediate access to funds.

Can foreigners open savings accounts in Polish banks?

Yes, foreigners can open savings accounts in Poland with the same requirements as regular bank accounts. You'll need a passport, proof of Polish address, and often a PESEL number. EU citizens have easier access, while non-EU citizens may need residence permits. mBank and ING offer fully English services for international customers.

What's the minimum amount needed to start saving?

Minimum deposits vary by bank and account type. PKO Bank Polski requires as little as 100 PLN, while premium accounts at Millennium Bank require 2,000 PLN or more. Generally, higher minimum deposits unlock better interest rates. Most banks offer entry-level savings starting from 500-1,000 PLN.

How often do interest rates change in Poland?

Interest rates in Poland can change monthly or even weekly, especially for promotional offers. They're influenced by the National Bank of Poland's reference rate, competition between banks, and market conditions. Term deposits lock in rates for the full term, while regular savings rates can fluctuate. Always check current rates before depositing.

Should I choose PLN or foreign currency savings?

PLN savings typically offer higher interest rates (4-7% APY) compared to EUR or USD accounts (0.1-2% APY). However, foreign currency accounts protect against PLN devaluation. For expats planning to stay in Poland long-term, PLN accounts are usually more profitable. For those planning to leave, foreign currency might be safer.

Ready to Start Earning Higher Interest on Your Savings?

Take advantage of Poland's competitive savings rates. Compare our top-ranked accounts and start growing your money with safe, high-yield savings options.