Forms of Business
Foreign citizens in Poland can choose one of two forms to start a transport business:
- JDG (Jednoosobowa działalność gospodarcza) — suitable for small companies with 2–3 vehicles. However, not all foreigners can open a sole proprietorship; special grounds are required (Pole’s Card, PBH visa, permanent residence, PESEL UKR, etc.).
- Spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością (Sp. z o.o.) — the optimal option for foreigners. Any citizen in Poland can open a Sp. z o.o., even on a visa.
More details on JDG requirements can be found on the official portal biznes.gov.pl.
Registration of a Transport Company
A Sp. z o.o. can be registered online via the S24 portal. The steps include:
- Prepare a unique company name.
- Obtain a PESEL number and Trusted Profile (Profil Zaufany).
- Complete and sign documents online.
- Pay the state fee — 350.60 zł.
- Wait for the court’s decision: the company will automatically receive NIP, REGON, and KRS numbers.
- Register in the CRBR (beneficial owners register).
- Open a business bank account.
- Sign a contract with an accountant or outsourcing company.
- Register with the tax office and ZUS, and if necessary — obtain VAT payer status.
Legal Requirements
If you plan to transport goods or passengers using vehicles over 3.5 tons, a carrier license is required. Main conditions:
- Business registration in Poland.
- Contract for parking and vehicle maintenance.
- No criminal record for employees.
- Financial security — €9,000 for the first vehicle and €5,000 for each additional one (via bank guarantee or insurance).
- Carrier competence certificate (Certyfikat Kompetencji Zawodowych), obtainable after training and an exam.
- Digital tachograph card.
- Obtain a transport permit — Zezwolenie na wykonywanie zawodu przewoźnika drogowego.
Applications can be submitted to the Main Road Transport Inspectorate (GITD).
International Transport and the TIR System
If the company plans transport outside the EU, access to the TIR system is required. Steps:
- Become a member of ZMPD — the Association of International Carriers.
- Provide a financial guarantee of at least €60,000.
- Send an employee for TIR training.
Startup Costs for a Transport Company
| Expense | Amount |
|---|---|
| State fee for Sp. z o.o. registration | 350.60 zł |
| Minimum share capital | 5,000 zł |
| Accounting services | from 300 zł/month |
| License for 5 years + copy | from 4,000 zł + 500 zł |
| License for 10 years | 8,000 zł |
| Legal services | as agreed |
Note: this does not include expenses for vehicles, leasing, insurance, or drivers’ salaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a foreigner open a transport company in Poland?
Yes, foreigners can open a Sp. z o.o. even without permanent residence, while on a visa.
Is a license required for a transport company?
A license is required if vehicles exceed 3.5 tons or passengers are transported.
How much does a carrier license cost?
The license costs about 4,000 zł for 5 years or 8,000 zł for 10 years.
Why BST Group
We assist clients at every stage of starting a transport company in Poland. Our lawyers and accountants will help to:
- Prepare and submit documents to GITD;
- Obtain a carrier license;
- Process employee registrations and work permits for foreigners;
- Organize accounting and tax support;
- Minimize risks when entering the international transport market.
