Key facts
- Regulator: KNF (Polish Financial Supervision Authority)
- Retail leverage: up to 1:30 on major FX pairs
- Tax: 19% on capital gains, declared on PIT-38
- Local brokers: e.g. XTB, whose parent is listed in Warsaw
Regulation
The KNF supervises investment firms in Poland and has historically taken a cautious approach to leveraged products. Today ESMA-based retail protections apply. Polish residents can use KNF-authorised brokers or EEA brokers passported into Poland. The KNF publishes a public warning list of unauthorised entities.
Retail protections
- ESMA leverage limits and 50% margin close-out
- Negative balance protection
- No bonuses
- Risk warnings with loss percentages
Tax
Income from CFD and forex trading is generally taxed at a flat 19% and reported annually on the PIT-38 form. Polish brokers usually provide a PIT-8C summary; with foreign brokers you calculate the figures yourself, converting to złoty at the appropriate rates.
Choosing a broker
- Check the KNF register and warning list.
- Consider whether the broker provides PIT-8C or equivalent tax summaries.
- Compare costs in PLN and EUR accounts.
Forex brokers to compare in Poland
Pepperstone (EU entities supervised by CySEC and BaFin) and IG (IG Europe GmbH, BaFin) serve clients in many EEA countries. Check that each broker accepts residents of Poland before applying, and see our European broker rankings.
| Broker | EU entity | Retail loss rate |
|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | CySEC / BaFin | 72.9% |
| IG | IG Europe GmbH (BaFin) | 74% |
Frequently asked questions
Is forex trading legal in Poland?
Yes, with brokers authorised by the KNF or passported from another EEA country.
How are CFD profits taxed in Poland?
Generally at 19% capital gains tax, declared on the PIT-38 form.
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Most retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Tax information is general and may change. Consult a Polish tax adviser.