The Opportunity for Ukrainians to Open Bank Accounts in Poland
Opening and Managing Bank Accounts for Ukrainian Seafarers Abroad
After February 24, 2022, many Ukrainian seafarers left their homeland to seek employment abroad. Staying in Ukraine became impossible for completing voyages in the merchant fleet. The most popular destinations for seafarers include Romania (Constanța, Mamaia, Bucharest), Bulgaria (Nessebar, Varna), and Chișinău in Moldova. They also opt for countries like the Czech Republic, Spain, Greece, and others with fewer restrictions on length of stay. Seafarers’ contracts usually last between 2 to 7 months.
Closure of Accounts in Moldova and Romania
Living outside Ukraine, seafarers need bank accounts to receive their salaries. In 2022, banks willingly opened accounts for seafarers. However, the situation changed in 2023. Romanian banks began refusing to serve accounts for Ukrainians registered in temporarily occupied territories. They required copies of internal passports when opening accounts but terminated agreements after a year or more, citing “risks.” Accounts were closed within 30-60 days.
In early 2024, Moldova’s OTP Bank also requested Ukrainian account holders to close their accounts, citing the end of the state of emergency in December 2023. The bank asked clients to withdraw their funds, leaving them in uncertainty.
For details on the current possibility of opening accounts in Moldova for seafarers, read our dedicated article.
How and Where to Open a Bank Account in Poland
In Poland, bank accounts can be opened using an international passport without needing copies of an internal passport or proof of residence. This is possible even without temporary protection status in Poland (PESEL). A popular Polish bank, iPKO, provides this service. Opening a bank account in Poland typically requires in-person presence. The physical card is delivered by mail within 10-14 days, but a virtual card for payments can be immediately activated through the bank’s app.
Opening a Bank Account in Poland Online for Ukrainians
Ukrainians can open a bank account in Poland online via video verification through iPKO bank. The procedure is as follows:
- Filling out the application on the bank’s website, including personal and contact details.
- Video verification, during which a bank representative confirms your identity.
- Limited account functions: After opening an account via video verification, you can use limited features until visiting the bank in person and providing identification.
Until an in-person visit, account functionality will remain restricted. You can receive funds but cannot withdraw money or make large transactions.
For additional details, see the full process here.
Restrictions and Challenges for Seafarers Registered in Temporarily Occupied Territories
Seafarers registered in temporarily occupied territories face injustices and limitations. Banks often do not explain the reasons for account closures, citing “risks.” Some seafarers living in occupied areas open accounts in Kazakhstan and transfer funds to accounts in Russia for access to their earnings.
Ukrainian seafarers face numerous challenges in opening and maintaining bank accounts abroad due to legal and political factors. Banks and international financial regulators must provide more flexible and humane solutions.