Moving countries can be intimidating (to put it mildly).

With Poland becoming a popular destination for Americans seeking a high-quality yet affordable life in Europe, many are now having to make the move here from the U.S.

This guide provides an overview of the key considerations, like residency options, visa procedures, cost of living comparisons, and the best Polish cities for expats.

Residency Options for Americans

Visa-Free Entry

Thanks to the Schengen Agreement, U.S. citizens can visit Poland (and other Schengen countries) without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

These short stays are long enough for visits where you are able to tour rental properties and take care of some general business. Use this to your fullest advantage!

But for your full move, you’ll need a long-term visa or residence permit.

Long-Term Visas and Residence Permits

Any stay beyond the 90-day visa-free limit requires securing the appropriate visa or permit, typically linked to the purpose of your stay (work, study, family reunification, or business). These include:

  1. Work Visa and Work Permit
    If you have a job offer in Poland, your employer must first secure a work permit for you. Then, you can apply for a work visa to enter Poland and begin employment. Certain professionals, like those on an EU Blue Card or intra-company transfers, have specialized (and much easier) permit routes. Once in Poland, you typically apply for a Temporary Residence Card, which wills tay valid up to three years (or sometimes tied to the length of your employment contract).
  2. Student Visa
    Enrolling in a Polish university or language program makes you eligible for a student visa. Student visas allow holders to work part-time without requiring an additional work permit. What happens as you near graduation? You can switch your status to a temporary residence permit.
  3. Family Reunification

Americans who have a Polish spouse or another close family member legally residing in Poland can apply for a family reunification residence permit.

  1. Business and Entrepreneur Visa
    Poland actively encourages foreign entrepreneurs to set up companies or invest in the local economy. If you plan to start or invest in a business, you can pursue a relevant national visa or temporary residence permit for entrepreneurs.
  2. Other Long-Term Options
    Additional pathways include research visas, humanitarian routes (less common for U.S. nationals), and the Polish Card (Karta Polaka) for those of Polish heritage. Generally, once you have maintained a legal temporary residence in Poland for five consecutive years, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.Permanent residents can live and work in Poland indefinitely without additional permits. After holding permanent residence and residing in Poland for a few more years (often 2–3), you may be eligible to apply for Polish citizenship, assuming you meet language and cultural knowledge requirements. While you’re there, you have an excellent opportunity to become a full-fledged dual citizen – Learn how to become a Polish citizen.

Cost of Living: Poland vs. Major U.S. Cities

Poland has a much lower cost of living than the United States.

Estimates suggest that overall expenses—housing, groceries, dining, transportation, and healthcare—can be 40–50% lower in Poland compared to American cities. Of course, the exact difference varies by location, but for most expats, Poland offers genuine savings while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle.

Read more about tax liability as a Polish dual citizen.

Best Cities to Live in Poland for Expats

Poland’s major cities each have their own character, economic strengths, and advantages for international residents. Here are four of the most popular destinations for expats:

1. Warsaw

As Poland’s capital and largest city, Warsaw is a dynamic business hub with a giant population of about 1.8 million. The job market is particularly strong in finance, IT, and international corporations, which often maintain their regional headquarters here.

The aesthetic is all urban: high-rise buildings dominate much of the skyline. But the restored Old Town show off centuries of history, so there is some balance.

Though living costs are higher in Warsaw than elsewhere in Poland, they remain lower than in most comparable U.S. cities.

Pros

  • Job opportunities for English-speakers
  • Plenty of cultural events, museums, nightlife, and international dining
  • Well-connected with an international airport and comprehensive public transport

Cons

  • Highest rents in Poland
  • Large, sprawling metropolis with heavier traffic
  • Winters can feel long and grey

2. Kraków

Loved for being Poland’s cultural capital, Kraków has lots of medieval heritage, but parts have a modern, youthful vibe—there’s a sizeable university population.

With around 770,000 residents, Kraków is home to numerous multinational firms, especially in IT and financial services.

Its scenic Old Town, lively market square, and regular festivals make it a magnet for both tourists and long-term residents.

Pros

  • Beautiful, walkable historic center and vibrant cultural life
  • Slightly lower cost of living than Warsaw while still having a big city feel
  • Thriving expat community, particularly in the tech and startup sectors

Cons

  • Can be crowded with tourists, especially in summer
  • Air pollution in winter, although recent efforts aim to reduce coal-based heating
  • Some outsourcing jobs have lower pay compared to Warsaw equivalents

3. Wrocław

Situated in western Poland along the Oder River, Wrocław (population ~640,000) is a postcard city (lots of picturesque bridges and canals).

The economy is (again) mainly tech. But you’ll also find shared services and manufacturing to round out job opportunities.

The city has a lively arts scene, universities, and warm atmosphere for newcomers.

Pros

  • Both job prospects and moderate living costs
  • Gorgeous historic areas with flourishing cafe culture
  • Lower congestion compared to larger capitals

Cons

  • Limited direct flights to the U.S. (connections usually via Warsaw or German airports)
  • English isn’t as widespread
  • Seasonal flooding in some areas

4. Gdańsk

Located on the Baltic coast, Gdańsk (population ~470,000) is known for its Hanseatic architecture and maritime heritage.

Alongside nearby Sopot and Gdynia, it forms the “Tri-City” area, a region with a strong port industry, plus growing IT and finance sectors.

Life here is complemented by a seafront ambiance and abundant outdoor activities.

Pros

  • Access to beaches, sailing, and coastal recreation
  • Moderate housing costs
  • Active expat community and proximity to nature

Cons

  • Baltic weather can mean chilly, windy winters
  • Fewer jobs for English speakers
  • Heavy tourist season in July and August

Home, Sweet Poland

Moving from the USA to Poland can be a rewarding adventure—as long as you take care of the details.