Moving to Warsaw from the UK means a new country, new registration steps and a capital where old streets and tight blocks of flats make removal logistics worth planning early. Here are seven practical tips for moving to Warsaw in 2026.
1. Check your right to live and work in Poland
Since Brexit, British nationals moving to Poland need to check the entry and residence rules that apply to their situation, whether that is work, study, family or another route. Start with the official GOV.UK travel advice for Poland and the Polish authorities’ guidance, and allow plenty of time for any applications.
2. Register your address and get a PESEL number
Residents in Poland register their address with the local office and use a PESEL number, the national identification number needed for many everyday services such as healthcare, banking and employment. Ask your local office exactly which documents it requires and book early, as appointments can take time.
3. Plan the customs paperwork for your belongings
Poland is in the EU, so your household goods now cross a customs border when they arrive from the UK. EU countries offer a relief for people transferring their normal residence, which can allow personal belongings to enter without duty and import VAT if the conditions are met. These typically include proof that you lived outside the EU, an itemised inventory and evidence that you owned and used the goods. Check the current rules with the Polish customs authority before you pack.
MoveDay Removals prepares the inventory and handles clearance through our customs removals service, so your load is not held waiting on a form.
4. Plan the long road from the UK
The journey from the UK to Warsaw crosses several countries, so allow for the Channel crossing, border checks and driver rest times when you agree a delivery date. A removal company that regularly runs Poland routes will build these into the schedule. See our Poland removals page for more.
5. Arrange parking and access in advance
Central Warsaw has paid parking zones and many narrow streets. Tell your removal company your exact address early so that the vehicle, route and any permission to load outside your building can be confirmed well before moving day.
6. Measure lifts, stairs and doorways
Many Warsaw blocks of flats have small lifts and tight stairwells. Measure your largest pieces against the lift, staircase and entrance, and send photographs and dimensions with your quote request so any dismantling or hoist can be planned in advance.
7. Set up utilities, healthcare and banking early
Arrange electricity, internet, healthcare registration and a local bank account soon after you arrive. Many of these need your address registration and PESEL, so completing steps one and two first saves time.
Ready to move to Warsaw?
MoveDay Removals covers the whole UK and Europe, including removals to Poland with customs paperwork handled for you. Request a free quote and tell us your collection address and your Warsaw destination.
Website: https://movedayremovals.com
Phone: 07378 626882
Email: office@movedayremovals.co.uk
Image: Old Town Market Square, Warsaw, by Igor123121, licensed under CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons.