Post-Arrival Guide
Structured Arrival Plan for Poland
Your step-by-step action plan for a smooth transition to life in Poland, covering your first 24 hours, 3 days, and first week.
Poland Arrival Timeline
First 24 Hours
Arrive & settle in accommodation
Set up local SIM card
Get basic groceries
Rest & recover from travel
First 3 Days
Contact university international office
Explore neighborhood
Purchase transport card
Visit grocery stores & markets
First Week
Complete university enrollment
Begin city registration process
Attend orientation events
Open a bank account
Arriving in a new country can be overwhelming. This structured timeline breaks down essential tasks and helps you prioritize during your crucial first days in Poland. Following this plan will help you settle in smoothly, fulfill legal requirements, and prepare for successful studies.
First 24 Hours: Immediate Priorities
Your first day is about getting your basics sorted, resting from travel, and ensuring you have essential communication and supplies.
Immediate Tasks
- Check in to your accommodation: Verify all facilities work properly. Take photos of any damage for your records. Exchange contact information with your landlord or dormitory staff.
- Activate a local SIM card: If you didn't get one at the airport, find a nearby mobile provider store. Major operators include Orange, Play, T-Mobile, and Plus. Bring your passport for registration.
- Contact home: Let family know you've arrived safely. Establish how you'll stay in regular contact.
- Get essential groceries: Find nearby supermarkets (Biedronka, Lidl, Żabka are common) for basics. Buy water, snacks, toiletries, and simple breakfast items.
Practical Tips
- Local area orientation: Take a short walk around your neighborhood to locate essential services (groceries, pharmacy, ATM, public transport stops).
- Rest & recover: Don't overexert yourself on the first day. Allow time to adjust to the time zone and recover from travel fatigue.
- Download useful apps: Jakdojade (for public transport), Google Translate, banking apps, and food delivery services like Pyszne or Glovo.
- Emergency information: Save emergency numbers: 112 (general emergency), 999 (ambulance), 998 (fire), 997 (police). Know the location of the nearest hospital.
First Day Essentials
Even if tired, make sure you have functional communication (SIM), basic supplies, and emergency contacts before your first night.
First 3 Days: Getting Oriented
These days are about familiarizing yourself with your surroundings, establishing key contacts, and preparing for your academic journey.
University & Transportation
- Contact university international office: Notify them of your arrival, confirm your enrollment appointment, and ask about orientation events. Save their contact information for emergencies.
- Locate key university buildings: Find your department, international office, library, and student services. Take a campus tour if available.
- Purchase a transport card: Get a city transit card at main stations or kiosks. Consider long-term passes for savings (monthly "bilet miesięczny"). Student discounts require ISIC or student ID.
- Learn transport routes: Plan your commute to university, city center, and essential locations. Download the Jakdojade app for route planning in Polish cities.
City Exploration & Necessities
- Explore your neighborhood: Locate nearby services including banks, post office, larger supermarkets, healthcare facilities, and recreation spaces.
- Shop for additional supplies: Purchase any household items you need. Consider stores like Pepco, Action, or IKEA for affordable home goods.
- Locate essential services: Find the nearest currency exchange (kantor), pharmacy (apteka), and medical facilities. Note their operating hours.
- Connect with fellow students: Join social media groups for international students at your university. Look for WhatsApp or Facebook groups for your program.
City Navigation Tip
Don't hesitate to use Google Maps to navigate Polish cities. Most urban areas have excellent coverage, including public transport routes and schedules.
First Week: Establishing Your Life
Your first week focuses on completing official processes, setting up financial services, and beginning your academic and social integration.
Official Registration
- Complete university enrollment: Attend your scheduled registration appointment. Bring all required documents (acceptance letter, passport, visa, photos, insurance proof, education certificates).
- Begin city registration (meldunek): Start the address registration process at the local municipal office (Urząd Miasta/Gminy). You'll need your passport, visa, and rental agreement.
- Course registration: Register for courses following your program requirements. Speak with your academic advisor if you have questions about course selection.
- Residence permit preparation: Gather documents for your residence permit application (if staying longer than 90 days). Review requirements on the university's international student page.
Financial & Social Setup
- Open a bank account: Visit a Polish bank (PKO BP, Santander, mBank, Millenium are popular choices). Bring your passport, student card/acceptance letter, and local address proof.
- Attend orientation events: Participate in university orientation, department meetings, and international student events. These are crucial for making connections and learning about resources.
- Register at the library: Get your library card and learn about online resources, study spaces, and borrowing procedures.
- Connect with student organizations: Join student clubs that interest you. Look for ESN (Erasmus Student Network) which organizes activities for international students.
First Week Milestone
By the end of your first week, aim to have your university enrollment complete, city registration initiated, and a basic understanding of campus resources.
Essential Tips for a Smooth Transition
- Document Organization: Keep a folder with all important documents (passport, visa, acceptance letter, insurance) both physical and digital copies.
- Budget Tracking: Start tracking your expenses immediately to understand the cost of living in Poland and adjust your budget accordingly.
- Polish Phrases: Learn basic Polish phrases for daily interactions. Poles appreciate when foreigners make an effort to speak their language.
- Student Discounts: Your student card provides significant discounts on public transport, museums, cinemas, and more. Always ask about student rates.
- Weather Preparation: Be prepared for Poland's seasonal weather, especially if arriving in autumn/winter. Waterproof shoes and warm layers are essential.
- Cultural Adjustment: Give yourself time to adjust to cultural differences. Join international student events to connect with others experiencing similar transitions.
Common Questions About Your First Week
Next Steps & Related Guides
Next Steps
Ready to Complete Your Official Registration?
Learn about the essential next steps: enrolling at your university and handling mandatory city registration in Poland.
University Enrollment Guide