How to Safely Transfer Money from Belarus to Poland: Expert Advice
Transporting cash savings without declaration can lead to serious problems with Polish banks, up to account blocking. Tatyana Gaenkovska, founder of a tax accounting company, explained how to legally transfer funds to avoid unnecessary problems.
The expert considers direct bank transfers to be the most reliable method. Despite the commission, this removes questions about the origin of funds.
"First, of course, try to transfer funds via bank transfer. Cash is always a 'red flag' for banks. They start to doubt the legality of the origin of funds because cash is difficult to trace. Therefore, try to transfer via bank transfer first. In Belarus, for example, Priorbank cooperates with PKO Bank and makes transfers," she says.
If you choose cash, Gaenkovska strongly recommends declaring the money at both borders.
"Many Polish banks check for two declarations from two borders. If you are bringing it from Belarus, first declare it at the Belarusian border, then at the Polish border," she advises.
Many people bring in money in installments of up to $10,000 (without declaration) or ask acquaintances. Gaenkovska warns: explanations that the money was brought in by third parties often do not satisfy Polish banks.
Another point: money you declare may be subject to taxation in Poland. For example, if you reside in Poland for more than 183 days a year (are a tax resident) and import dividends from entrepreneurial activities in Belarus or Ukraine.
Dividends are subject to taxation, but according to the agreement on avoiding double taxation, the amount of tax already paid in Belarus can be deducted. The rate in Poland is 19%. If you paid 25% in Belarus, you will not have to pay anything extra.
Sale of real estate/movable property (e.g., in Belarus): not subject to tax in Poland.
Why is this relevant? Recently, a Belarusian woman in Poland faced a blocking of funds after purchasing an apartment. The woman gradually accumulated money in her account, which relatives brought her in small amounts without declaration. Even with a property sale agreement in Belarus, the bank froze the payment because there was no official proof of these specific funds crossing the border.