Have you moved or are you moving to Poland and confused by the rules around SIM cards, eSIM, PESEL and prepaid? Here is a guide that explains how Polish mobiles work and why Lyca Mobile is the best fit for expats in Poland, particularly for students, digital nomads, and new arrivals.
How does Polish Telecom work?
There are two options: Prepaid and Contract
For those who have arrived or are planning to move and need a local number quickly, without getting credit checks, prepaid is the way to go. Once you have established yourself, you can look at long-term plans, where you save costs by choosing a yearly plan. Either way, Lyca Mobile is the perfect SIM card for foreigners.
- Buy SIM or eSIM
- Pay in Advance
- No Credit Check
- Stop Anytime
- Ideal for foreigners (30–180 days)
CONTRACT
- Monthly Bill
- 12–24 Month Sign‑up
- Requires Polish Credit History
- Polish Bank & Address needed
- Better for long term (not for newcomers)
FOR NEWCOMERS: PREPAID IS EASIEST AND SAFEST.
Using eSIM in Poland
Most modern smartphones support eSIM Poland. With an eSIM, you can download a digital profile once you have an active number. If you have a foreign number you need to keep active for bank or other work, you can keep it active while also keeping your Polish number. Dual eSIM or eSIM with physical SIM option. eSIM activation takes a few minutes, and you can buy it from your home country and get data as soon as you land.
SIM registration (KYC basics)
To register your SIM, you need to show your passport or EU ID card. If you choose a long-term contract plan, you need to typically show your local address or PESEL, i.e., your Polish ID number.
When it comes to buying a prepaid SIM, if it is a physical SIM, you can buy it online or at the partner shops or online while doing registration on video. Topping up a prepaid Poland SIM is quite easy; you can do it online, at the store closest to you or via apps.
Lyca Mobile makes the registration and top-up process easy by providing online top-up options and passport-friendly registration for foreigners and expats, helping them remove the barrier.
Challenges faced by expats
Figuring out mobile phone plans and needs in Poland shouldn’t feel like a mission to the moon. There are a few common issues faced by expats and newcomers in Poland. And hence an English-friendly Polish telecom guide is important for expats and foreigners.
Don’t let the language barrier or complex rules intimidate you; look for a carrier that provides you with a digital-first solution and is global so that no matter where you are from, the language won’t be an issue.
From Erasmus students to digital nomads, all are looking for freedom of movement. And with Lyca Mobile, you get plans that work with your global lifestyle with no strings attached.
Why is Lyca Mobile ideal for expats?
Lyca Mobile for expats in Poland is made to fit the lifestyle of prepaid and international users.
No hidden fees or commitments: order online and get a SIM or an eSIM without worrying about a contract or hidden costs.
EU roaming included: explore around without constantly worrying about roaming charges. Get affordable and hassle-free data and calls around Europe with Lyca Mobile’s Plans.
Support in English: Website, help pages and customer support available in English.
Superfast 5G and eSIM: Get our high-speed 5G with the option to get online within minutes with eSIM options.
International + Local: Get plans which have unlimited calling and higher data options while also giving you international calling options.
Keep your number: You can keep your existing phone number and change to Lyca Mobile without hassle.
Long-term saving: Get long-term plans and save more. You can choose between the term options and save more without sacrificing any perks.
If you are searching for the best SIM for expats and mobile plans in Poland, that help you connect without worry. Lyca Mobile is the right choice!
STEP-BY-STEP Guide for everything Lyca!
- How to activate Lyca eSIM
Choose a plan, buy a Lyca Mobile eSIM online, and scan the QR code that will either come to your email or WhatsApp. Make sure there is some Internet/Wi-Fi connection around you while you do this. Add eSIM/ Add Mobile Plan, in your setting choose the Lyca Mobile number, and you’re active!
- How to top up
It is as easy as ordering coffee; go to the Lyca Mobile website or app. Add your number and choose the amount/plan/bundle. Pay for it and wait for the confirmation SMS. - How to port a number
You need to request the port-in on Lyca Mobile by filling out a form. In that you submit the current provider’s number, details and other information. Once the number is ported into Lyca. You will get a notification via the option chosen by you, either SMS or email. Once you receive confirmation, you can now use Lyca.
How to check data usage
You can check your data usage via the Lyca Mobile app, or you can enter *131#, press send, and your balance will be shown on your Lyca Mobile screen, or Dial 321 and listen to your balance.
Who is Lyca Mobile best for?
Lyca Mobile is best for anyone comparing Lyca Mobile for expats with local carriers and brands. Lyca Mobile provides the flexibility that works for students and tourists and a strong internet connection that is a gold mine for digital nomads and people who work from home. The affordable and reliable connection makes it ideal for international families as well as everyone who wants to call internationally and lives between borders.