Guarantee for Foreigners in Poland — How to Obtain It and What Options Exist

Guarantee for Foreigners in Poland: what it is and why you need it

In Poland, a Najem Okazjonalny (lease with special conditions) requires a mandatory guarantee — a document specifying the address to which the tenant can be moved in case the lease is terminated. For foreigners, this is especially important because they often lack relatives or friends willing to provide such a guarantee.

Why it’s difficult for foreigners to obtain a guarantee

• No permanent address. Many foreigners are renting for the first time and do not own property in Poland.
• Lack of close contacts. Not every foreign tenant can ask Polish friends or colleagues to sign a guarantee.
• Legal responsibility. The signer effectively confirms the tenant can move to the indicated address, which carries serious obligations.

What options do foreigners have

1. Guarantee from friends or relatives. If the foreigner has close contacts who own property in Poland, they can issue the document.
2. Employer guarantee. Some companies help foreign employees, especially under long-term employment contracts.
3. Intermediary services. Specialized services and agencies offer paid guarantees — convenient for students and new residents.

Requirements for a foreigner’s guarantee

• The document must be drafted in Polish.
• It must include the move-out address.
• The guarantor’s signature should be notarized if the landlord requires it.
• The guarantor must own the indicated property or have a legal right to use it.

What are the risks for the foreigner

• Refusal to rent without a guarantee. Many landlords sign only with a complete set of documents.
• High intermediary fees. Agencies may charge extra, varying by city and provider.
• Dependence on the guarantor. If the guarantor withdraws consent, the lease may be at risk.

Can the guarantee be arranged remotely?

Yes — foreigners can obtain a guarantee online. Many agencies provide end-to-end online processing: fill out a form and the originals are sent by post or courier (InPost, DHL). This simplifies the process for those still outside Poland.

Conclusion

A guarantee for foreigners in Poland is a key element when signing a Najem Okazjonalny agreement. Despite challenges, it can be obtained via friends, an employer, or specialized agencies. Choosing the right option helps avoid rental issues and makes living in Poland more stable.