Big News for Unmarried Couples in Poland!

Overview: 

A new law proposal — the Act on the Civil Partner Status and the Cohabitation Agreement — could bring a real legal and financial revolution for couples living in informal relationships. If adopted later this year, it could transform the lives of thousands.

Until now, unmarried partners were almost strangers in the eyes of the law — unable to file joint taxes, inherit without a will, or access each other’s medical info. Inheritance often came with up to 20% tax, and family members could even claim the shared home. What’s changing? Couples will be able to sign a civil agreement before a notary and register it with the Civil Registry Office (USC), gaining the legal status of “close persons.”

That means new rights like:

• Joint PIT filing

• Inheritance & gift tax exemptions

• Survivor’s pension

• Joint mortgage options

• Medical decision-making rights

• Health insurance coverage and caregiving leave
  

This reform could give couples real protection and recognition — without marriage.

Important for relocating partners: If passed, this law won’t automatically change the rights of civil partners moving to Poland. Currently, unmarried partners don’t have the same status as married couples, and any update for foreign residents will depend on changes to the Act on Foreigners.

At Move One, we’ll keep following this development and share updates with our HR and expat communities. #MoveOne #Relocation #Poland #LegalReform