Someone has not paid for a service, repaid a loan or settled an invoice in the UK. They now live in Poland. Before starting further proceedings, organise what you have: the basis of the debt, amount, payment deadline and repayment history.
Establish who owes the money
For a business debt, check whether you contracted with a company or a person trading in their own name. A director’s move abroad does not establish personal liability. For a loan, identify who entered into the agreement and who received the money.
Separate an unpaid claim from an existing judgment
If you have a judgment, the assessment also concerns its effect and whether it can be enforced in Poland. Without one, the claim, jurisdiction and applicable law need assessment. A move abroad does not determine which court should hear the case.
Consider the financial objective
Residence and assets are different matters. Knowing someone lives in Poland does not show that they have assets from which the debt can be recovered. Compare the potential cost of action with the amount owed and the risk of non-payment.
Prepare a brief outline for the first discussion without entering third-party details in a public form. Send documents only through an agreed secure channel. Continue with the guides for claims with and without a judgment.
Next step
Start with our UK–Poland debt recovery guide. Briefly describe your situation so that the scope of possible assistance can be established. Do not post the debtor’s details or documents in a public comment. Requires individual legal assessment.
Related guides
- UK–Poland debt recovery: where to start
- UK judgment or CCJ: can you pursue payment in Poland?
- Polish company has not paid your invoice? First steps for UK businesses
- UK–Poland business contracts: governing law and jurisdiction
About this information
Educational material, not legal advice. TwojaSprawa is an information and coordination platform, not a law firm or debt collection agency. We do not advise on UK law or conduct UK proceedings. Legal assistance in Poland requires a regulated Polish lawyer and confirmation of scope. Recovery and completion dates are not guaranteed. Legal details require individual verification; AI checks are not a lawyer’s approval. A provider and service scope for this category have not yet been confirmed.