Things to Know Before Moving to Poland Thumbnail
Things to Know Before Moving to Poland as an Indian Student: The 2026 Ultimate Guide
Quick Answer: What Should Indian Students Know Before Moving to Poland?
Before moving to Poland, Indian students should know: the weather can be harsh (−15°C in winter), monthly living costs range from ₹25,000–₹45,000, Indian food and grocery stores exist in major cities, Polish cities are safe and well-connected, English is widely spoken in university cities, and registration at the local municipality is legally required within 30 days of arrival.
Introduction
Receiving your Poland university offer letter is exciting. But between "yes, I'm going" and stepping off the plane in Warsaw or Wrocław, there are dozens of practical decisions that can either make your first semester smooth — or unnecessarily stressful.
This guide is based on feedback from hundreds of Indian students we've placed in Poland over the years. The questions they ask, the mistakes they wish they'd avoided, and the surprises — good and bad — that nobody told them about.
Whether you're heading to study in Poland for the first time or helping a family member prepare, this is the most practical pre-departure guide you'll find.
1. Weather in Poland: What Indian Students Need to Know
This is the biggest adjustment most Indian students underestimate.
Poland has four distinct seasons, and the winters are nothing like anything you've experienced in most of India.
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March–May | 5°C–18°C | Pleasant, mild, occasional rain |
| Summer | June–August | 18°C–32°C | Warm, sunny, ideal |
| Autumn | September–November | 5°C–16°C | Cooling fast, leaves changing |
| Winter | December–February | −5°C to −18°C | Cold, snow, icy conditions |
What to pack:
- Thermal underlayers (2–3 sets minimum)
- Heavy winter coat (buy in India or purchase in Poland in Oct–Nov before prices peak)
- Waterproof winter boots with insulation
- Gloves, wool hat, scarf
- Layering clothes — the heating inside buildings is excellent, so you'll constantly be adding/removing layers
Student Insight:
"I thought my regular jacket from Ahmedabad would do for the first month. It didn't. Invest in a proper winter coat before you go or buy one in Poland during September when the sales start." — Priya S., Indian student at WSB University Wrocław (2024 intake)
2. Cost of Living in Poland for Indian Students (2026)
One of Poland's biggest advantages is its affordability compared to Western Europe. Here's a realistic monthly budget breakdown for Indian students:
Monthly Expense Breakdown by City
| Expense Category | Warsaw | Wrocław | Kraków | Gdańsk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared student room) | €200–€350 | €160–€280 | €150–€270 | €160–€290 |
| Food & groceries | €150–€200 | €130–€170 | €120–€160 | €130–€170 |
| Public transport | €25–€40 | €20–€30 | €20–€30 | €20–€30 |
| Phone + internet | €15–€20 | €15–€20 | €15–€20 | €15–€20 |
| Study materials | €20–€40 | €20–€40 | €20–€40 | €20–€40 |
| Entertainment & social | €50–€100 | €40–€80 | €40–€80 | €40–€80 |
| Monthly Total | €460–€750 | €385–€620 | €365–€600 | €385–€630 |
In Indian Rupees (at ₹90/€): approximately ₹33,000–₹56,000 in Warsaw and ₹28,000–₹45,000 in smaller cities.
This is comparable to living costs in metropolitan India while studying in an EU country — a compelling value proposition.
Accommodation Options
University Dormitory (Akademik)
- Cost: €100–€200/month
- Pros: Cheapest, community atmosphere, close to campus, included utilities
- Cons: Limited privacy, shared bathrooms, not always available (apply early!)
Private Shared Apartment
- Cost: €200–€350/month (your share)
- Pros: More space, privacy, home-like atmosphere
- Cons: Responsible for utilities, lease commitment
Studio Apartment
- Cost: €400–€700/month
- Best for: Students who prefer independence or are studying in Warsaw
Counselor Tip:
Apply for university dormitory accommodation as soon as you receive your admission letter. Spots for international students fill within 2–3 weeks of the application window opening, especially at WUST and WSB Wrocław.
3. Food in Poland: Finding Your Taste
This is a real concern for many Indian students — and it's more manageable than you might think.
Polish cuisine is hearty, meat-heavy, and starchy. Expect a lot of dumplings (pierogi), soups, potatoes, and pork. Vegetarian and vegan options have grown significantly in the last 5 years, particularly in Warsaw and Wrocław.
Indian Food Availability
- Indian restaurants: Warsaw, Wrocław, Kraków, and Gdańsk all have multiple Indian restaurants — ranging from affordable dhabha-style eateries to proper sit-down restaurants. Quality varies, but you won't be without options.
- Indian grocery stores: Available in all major university cities. Look for stores like Spice of India, Indian Bazaar, and similar shops selling dal, atta, basmati rice, paneer, and spices.
- Online delivery: Glovo and Bolt Food operate in Polish cities and often list Indian restaurants.
- Self-cooking: Most students cook at home 4–5 days a week. Polish supermarkets (Biedronka, Lidl, Kaufland) stock enough basic ingredients for Indian home cooking — lentils, chickpeas, rice, vegetables. A decent month of home-cooked meals costs €100–€130.
4. Getting Around Poland: Transport Guide
Public Transport Polish cities have excellent public transport networks — trams, buses, and metros (Warsaw has Metro). A monthly student transit pass costs €20–€40 depending on the city. Always buy a student card from your university — it gets you 50% discount on public transport.
Trains Poland's PKP intercity trains connect major cities efficiently. Warsaw to Wrocław: ~3.5 hours. Warsaw to Kraków: ~2.5 hours. Book in advance on intercity.pl for cheaper fares.
Within Europe Your Polish student visa is a D-type national visa that also grants Schengen access. This means you can travel across 26 European countries during your study period — Spain, Italy, France, Germany, Czech Republic, and more — without additional visas. Flying is cheap within Europe (Ryanair, Wizz Air, LOT Polish Airlines all operate from Polish cities).
5. Banking and Money in Poland
Opening a bank account: You'll need a bank account to receive stipends, pay rent, and manage daily expenses. Popular banks for international students:
- mBank — fully digital, English interface
- PKO Bank Polski — largest bank, widespread ATMs
- ING Bank Śląski — good for international students
To open an account, you typically need: passport, Polish address, and student ID. Some banks may request a PESEL number (Polish citizen ID number — you can apply for this after arrival).
Revolut is extremely popular among Indian students as a bridge card before opening a Polish bank account. Works from Day 1 and has excellent EUR/PLN rates.
Sending money from India: Use Wise (formerly TransferWise) for the best exchange rates between INR and PLN. Avoid airport currency exchanges — rates are poor.
6. SIM Cards and Internet in Poland
Getting connected on Day 1 is easy. At the airport, you'll find:
- Play — most popular with international students; 4G coverage excellent
- Orange Poland — good alternative
- T-Mobile Poland — competitive rates
Pick up a prepaid SIM at any of these stores in the airport or any supermarket. A tourist SIM with 30GB data costs approximately PLN 30–50 (₹700–1,200). Switch to a monthly plan once you have your address registered.
7. Healthcare in Poland
As a non-EU international student, you need private health insurance before arrival (already part of your visa requirements). Your insurance should cover:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospitalization
- Outpatient visits
- Prescription medicines
Once enrolled in a Polish university, some universities automatically enroll students into the National Health Fund (NFZ) — check with your institution. NFZ membership gives you access to public healthcare including GP visits, specialist referrals, and hospital care at little to no cost.
Registering with a doctor: Ask your dormitory coordinator or university international office for the nearest NFZ-registered GP. You register by showing your NFZ membership card and PESEL number.
8. Polish Language: Do You Need It?
For academic purposes at English-taught programs: No, you don't need Polish.
For daily life: A little goes a long way.
Learn 20–30 basic phrases — greetings, numbers, shopping vocabulary, directions. This makes interactions at local shops, markets, and with older Poles much smoother.
Most urban Poles under 40 in university cities speak functional to fluent English. In shops, restaurants, and public institutions, English is generally sufficient.
Free resources: Duolingo Polish (surprisingly good for basics), YouTube channels like "Polish With Dorota."
9. Safety in Poland
Poland is consistently ranked among the safest countries in Europe. Major university cities — Warsaw, Wrocław, Kraków, Gdańsk — have low crime rates.
For Indian students specifically:
- Instances of racial discrimination are rare but not zero; they're far less common in university-heavy areas
- Stay aware in crowded tourist areas (pickpockets are common in Europe generally)
- Polish cities are well-lit and well-policed
Emergency number in Poland: 112 (EU standard)
Indian students in Poland consistently report feeling safe in both cities and on campuses.
10. Legal Requirements After Arrival — Don't Skip This
This is something many students overlook and it causes problems later:
Register at the local municipality (Urząd Gminy) within 30 days of arrival. This is a legal requirement for all foreigners staying in Poland for more than 14 days. You'll need: passport, accommodation proof (rental agreement or dormitory confirmation letter).
Apply for PESEL number: The PESEL is Poland's citizen identification number. Foreign students can apply for it at the municipality. You'll need it to open a bank account, access healthcare, and apply for your Temporary Residence Permit.
Apply for Temporary Residence Permit (Karta Pobytu): If your program is longer than one year, apply for your TRP within the first few months after arrival, at the Urząd Wojewódzki (Provincial Office). Processing takes several months, so apply early. Your D-type visa remains valid while your TRP is being processed.
11. Indian Community in Poland
You won't be alone. There's a growing and welcoming Indian student community in all major Polish cities.
- WhatsApp groups for Indian students at each university — ask your admissions contact or university international office for the link
- Diwali, Holi, and Independence Day celebrations are organized in Warsaw, Wrocław, and Kraków by Indian student associations
- Indian Student Associations at most major universities
- Facebook groups: Search "Indian Students in Poland" — active community with local tips, accommodation leads, and social events
Your Complete Poland Journey Starts Here
Moving to a new country is a big step. But thousands of Indian students before you have done exactly this — and thrived.
Explore more of our Poland resources:
- Poland student visa checklist — complete document guide
- Why study in Poland — the compelling reasons
- Study in Poland — full 2026 guide
Frequently Asked Question
1 What is the average monthly expense for Indian students in Poland?
Monthly living costs range from €385–€750 (₹35,000–₹67,000) depending on city and lifestyle. Warsaw is most expensive; smaller cities like Wrocław, Kraków, and Gdańsk are 20–30% cheaper.
2 Is Poland safe for Indian students?
Yes. Poland is consistently ranked among Europe's safest countries. Indian students report feeling safe across all major university cities.
3Can Indian students find Indian food in Poland?
Yes. Indian restaurants and grocery stores are available in Warsaw, Wrocław, Kraków, and other university cities. Home cooking is easy as Indian staples are stocked in most Polish supermarkets.
4What is the weather like in Poland for Indian students?
Poland has four seasons. Winters (December–February) are cold (−5°C to −18°C), which is a major adjustment for most Indian students. Pack or purchase heavy winter clothing.
5Do I need to know Polish to live in Poland?
Not for academic purposes at English-taught programs. Basic Polish helps with daily life but is not required. English is widely spoken in urban areas.
6 How do I open a bank account in Poland?
Open an account with mBank, PKO, or ING once you have your Polish address and student ID. Use Revolut or Wise for the interim period.
7What is the PESEL number and do I need it?
PESEL is Poland's personal identification number. You'll need it for banking, healthcare, and residence permit applications. Apply for it at the local municipality after arrival.
Get A Free Consulting Today
Get your answers related to abroad study.
