Register a company in Poland – Incentives for foreign investors

Register a company in Poland – Incentives for foreign investors
Have you considered expanding your business into the dynamic and rapidly growing Central European market? Poland stands out not only with its stable economy but also with a wide range of support instruments for entrepreneurs, including foreign investors. From tax reliefs to access to modern industrial parks – the opportunities are truly impressive.

Special Economic Zones and the Polish Investment Zone

One of the most attractive tools for supporting investments in Poland is the Special Economic Zones (SEZs), which, after reforms introduced in 2018, now operate under the Polish Investment Zone (PIZ). Entrepreneurs who decide to undertake new investment projects may benefit from income tax exemptions, with the conditions for support tailored to local needs and the specifics of a given region.

Polish Special Economic Zones have already attracted numerous global giants, including Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, which have established manufacturing plants in Poland. Their presence not only strengthens the Polish economy but also promotes the transfer of modern technologies and the creation of thousands of jobs.

The decision of these well-known corporations to choose Poland demonstrates that the conditions offered to foreign investors are competitive compared to other European countries.

Governmental grants

Investments of strategic importance to the Polish economy may qualify for direct governmental grants. The investment support program for 2011–2030 provides the opportunity to sign a bilateral agreement with the Minister of Development, paving the way for financial assistance.

Is it worth applying for such a grant? Yes, especially if you plan to develop modern technologies, create jobs, or export products abroad. Governmental grants offer a tangible opportunity to secure additional funds that can support your company’s growth and improve its market competitiveness.

What projects can receive support?

Under this program, support is granted to projects that meet specific conditions. In line with regional state aid regulations and the definition of an initial investment outlined in Article 2(49) of Commission Regulation (EU) No. 651/2014, an initial investment includes:

Establishing a new facility – Investments related to constructing a new production plant that introduces innovative technologies and processes, thereby increasing the region’s production potential.
Increasing production capacity of an existing facility – Projects involving the expansion of already operational plants to boost efficiency or broaden the product range.
Diversifying production – Introducing new products into the company’s portfolio that were not previously manufactured. Such investments help strengthen the firm’s competitive position in the market.
Fundamental change in the production process – Modifying the production process at an existing facility to improve efficiency, automate operations, or implement more environmentally friendly technologies.
Acquisition of assets from a closed facility – Investments involving the purchase of assets from enterprises that would otherwise shut down without a buyer. It is essential that the buyer is independent of the seller.

Industrial and technology parks in Poland

Poland is actively expanding its network of industrial and technology parks, which bring together businesses from specific industries along with research centers. This environment fosters innovation and knowledge transfer between companies.

What do industrial and technology parks offer?

Access to modern infrastructure – Industrial parks provide production halls, laboratories, and office spaces specifically designed to meet the needs of various businesses, including those in Industry 4.0 and technological innovation. This infrastructure supports companies in running their operations more efficiently, enabling easier growth, cost optimization, and adaptation to industry-specific requirements.
Proximity to research centers – These parks collaborate with universities and scientific institutes, facilitating access to the latest research and technology. Companies benefit from opportunities to jointly develop new solutions and participate in research and development projects. As a result, industrial and technology parks become hubs where innovations are quickly implemented into economic practice.
Logistical advantages – Industrial parks are often strategically located near key transport hubs, such as highways, express roads, airports, or rail terminals. This convenient infrastructure significantly simplifies product distribution both domestically and internationally, reducing logistics costs.

Example:
The Lower Silesia region is a prime example of a region effectively utilizing the potential of industrial and technology parks. It offers businesses access to high-quality technological infrastructure and research support, attracting investors, particularly from the automotive and IT sectors.

Exemption from property tax

Many Polish municipalities offer property tax exemptions to investors, including foreign businesses. This incentive can significantly reduce operating costs, which is particularly beneficial in the initial phase of an investment.

Under the Polish Act of the 12th January 1991 on local taxes and fees, municipal councils have the authority to set preferential tax rates or fully exempt businesses from paying these taxes. Exemptions often apply to land designated for new investments, especially in sectors considered strategic by local authorities.

To qualify for this form of support, investors must meet specific requirements, such as reaching a minimum investment threshold or creating new jobs. Additionally, they need to submit an application to the respective municipality. This mechanism serves as a compelling incentive for companies planning to enter the Polish market.

Research and development centers in Poland

Entrepreneurs engaged in research and development (R&D) activities can apply for the status of a research and development center (CBR). This status grants access to various tax reliefs and financial support programs.

Key benefits for investors:

R&D tax reliefs – Deductions on eligible R&D activities.
Access to additional grants – Funding for innovative research projects.
Facilitated collaboration with universities – Opportunities to cooperate with academic institutions and research centers.

To qualify for CBR status, a company must meet specific financial requirements. Its net revenue from the sale of goods, services, and financial operations in the previous fiscal year should amount to at least 5 million PLN, with at least 20% of that revenue coming from R&D services. Alternatively, companies with revenue between 2.5 and 5 million PLN must demonstrate that R&D services constitute at least 70% of their income.

Additionally, applicants must submit a statement confirming they have no outstanding tax or social security liabilities and comply with applicable accounting regulations.

Why consider investing in Poland?

Thinking about starting a business in Poland? The country offers a range of incentives that not only reduce operational costs but also provide access to advanced technologies and international cooperation. What benefits does the Polish market offer? From innovative industrial parks to tax reliefs for R&D centers, Poland supports business growth at every stage. Is it worth considering? Absolutely!

Conclusion

Poland is becoming an increasingly attractive investment destination, offering numerous incentives for foreign entrepreneurs. With Polish Investment Zone, governmental grants, and modern industrial and technology parks, the country has positioned itself as a key investment hub in Central Europe. Additionally, businesses operating in the R&D sector can apply for research and development center (CBR) status, unlocking access to tax reliefs and funding programs. Another significant advantage is exemption from property tax, which help reduce business costs.

If these incentives caught your interest and you’re considering company registration in Poland, getsix® provides professional, reliable services to support you through the entire process. From legal advice to final registration in compliance with Polish law – our comprehensive approach ensures a smooth market entry. Contact us today.

If you have any further questions or require additional information, please contact your business relationship person or use the enquiry form on the HLB Poland website.

***

This publication is non-binding information and serves for general information purposes. The information provided does not constitute legal, tax or management advice and does not replace individual advice. Despite careful processing, all information in this publication is provided without any guarantee for the accuracy, up-to-date nature or completeness of the information. The information in this publication is not suitable as the sole basis for action and cannot replace actual advice in individual cases. The liability of the authors or getsix® are excluded. We kindly ask you to contact us directly for a binding consultation if required. The content of this publication iis the intellectual property of getsix® or its partner companies and is protected by copyright. Users of this information may download, print and copy the contents of the publication exclusively for their own purposes.