What is a “Second House” in Poland?

Polish law bars foreigners, without a permit, from purchasing a “Second House” until 5 years after EU entry (May 1, 2004). Exceptions to these rules are those properties involved in tourism services.

Between several solicitors, accountants, notaries and estate agents I have received conflicting advice as to exactly what a “Second House” is.

Some say it is simply a holiday home that is used exclusively by the purchaser as a second residence. According to this view it is perfectly acceptable to purchase houses in Poland as long as you rent them out on the commercial or residential market. (investment property)

Others say that it is any house that is not your primary residence. Without a permit you are not allowed to purchase any house that you will not live in. I’ve had estate agents refuse to show me properties under this premise. Other people have told me that you just need to use the “right notary”.

Does anyone have a clear answer on this? Does anyone have experience going through the permit system? How difficult was it?

is your 'first house' in Poland a flat or a house?
if it is a flat you will probably be OK as flats are not counted as houses
you could buy 20 flats if you wanted

I don't know if this helps but in Poland there's a system whereby everyone has an officical address (meldunek). I was just told this evening that if you sell a property where you have been registered for at least a year then it's tax free. This is a guess but maybe a 'second home' is one you own but it's not your official address.

Isn't the restriction on non-EU residents only? You can buy as much as you want through an EU registered company.