Insurance in Poland • A Practical Guide for Expats

Navigating the Polish insurance market can be complex, especially if you are new to the country. Many customers focus solely on the premium price, overlooking key factors that determine the actual value of a policy. At Magro, we bridge the gap, explaining local regulations in plain English to ensure you are fully protected.

Motor Insurance: OC & AC Explained

In Poland, Third-Party Liability (OC) is mandatory, while Comprehensive Coverage (AC) is voluntary but highly recommended. Here is what to look for:

Comprehensive Coverage (AC) – The Devil is in the Details

• Parts Depreciation (Amortyzacja): This is crucial. Cheaper policies often deduct a percentage of the value of new parts based on the car's age. We recommend policies with "no depreciation" for full repairs.
• Repair Method: Do you want to repair your car at an Authorized Service Station (ASO) or a partner workshop? The choice affects the premium significantly.
• No-Claims Discount Protection: One small bump shouldn't skyrocket your premium next year. Check if your policy protects your discounts.

Home & Property Insurance

Protecting your apartment or house in Poland involves more than just fire insurance. Key factors to consider:

• Replacement Value vs. Actual Value: Always aim for "Replacement Value" (Wartość Odtworzeniowa). This ensures you get enough money to buy new items or rebuild, rather than the depreciated market value of old furniture.
• Natural Disasters: With changing climate patterns, ensure your policy covers heavy rain, storms, and floods. Pay attention to specific definitions in the General Terms (OWU).
• Private Liability (OC w życiu prywatnym): An essential add-on. It covers you if you accidentally flood your neighbor's flat or if your dog bites someone in the park.

Business Insurance for Entrepreneurs

Running a company in Poland? Secure your assets and continuity:

• Civil Liability: Adjust the sum insured to your industry's risk. If you trade internationally, ensure the territorial scope covers your markets.
• Business Interruption: If a fire stops your production, this coverage compensates for lost profits and fixed costs during the downtime.
• Cyber Insurance: Essential for modern businesses. It covers IT support, data recovery, and legal costs in case of a hacker attack or GDPR breach.

Visa and Travel Insurance

Whether you are applying for a Schengen Visa or traveling abroad for holidays:

• Medical Expenses: Mandatory for visas (min. €30,000). For personal travel (e.g., to the USA), choose much higher limits.
• Extreme Sports: Planning skiing in Zakopane or diving? Standard policies exclude these. Make sure to extend coverage for "high-risk activities".

How to Assess an Insurer in Poland?

Don't just look at the logo. Verify the stability and quality:

1. Supervision: Is the insurer supervised by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF)?
2. Process Digitalization: Can you report a claim via an app? Is video inspection available? This saves time and stress.
3. Language Support: Does the insurer offer an English-speaking hotline? As Magro, we act as your intermediary, handling communication barriers for you.

• facebook
• X