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Deputy Commissioner for Human Rights Wojciech Brzozowski has sent an appeal to the Chairman of the Financial Supervision Commission Jacek Jastrzębski regarding problems faced by Belarusian citizens when opening bank accounts in Poland. The issue is being examined by Poland’s Human Rights Commissioner.
Brzozowski reported that Belarusians awaiting decisions on applications for international protection are facing refusals from banks due to the absence of identity documents, residence permits, and proof of sources of income. Temporary foreigner identity certificates issued for the duration of asylum proceedings are not considered sufficient grounds by banks to open an account.
He noted that Belarusian citizens are unable to obtain other documents confirming their lawful stay in Poland and, until the end of the six-month waiting period, do not have the right to work. Many of them, at the initial stage of their stay in the country, rely on assistance from charitable organizations, and the lack of a bank account limits access to these funds.
In this context, Brzozowski asked the Financial Supervision Commission to clarify how foreigners holding temporary identity certificates can open a bank account in Poland.