Poland's New Swiss Franc Loan Law and WIBOR Shift to POLSTR Target Borrowers

Effective 7 August 2026, Poland will implement a law governing Swiss‑franc‑linked consumer loans. The legislation allows borrowers to suspend loan payments once a court‑served claim is filed, halting repayment obligations until the case is resolved. It also bars banks from terminating contracts, reporting defaults to credit bureaus, or refusing partial payments during the suspension period.

Separately, the long‑standing WIBOR reference rate will be replaced by the POLSTR index. The change will apply to new loan agreements from 1 January 2027 and may affect existing contracts up to 2036, requiring borrowers to sign annexes. Legal experts warn that annexes could contain clauses waiving future claims against banks, urging consumers to scrutinise and negotiate such terms before signing.