Finance Minister Andrzej Domański wrote on X on Thursday that he had "signed a general tax interpretation, which ensures that people who have obtained a transcription of their marriage certificate will have the same tax rights and obligations at Polish tax offices as all spouses."
Such interpretations are official statements intended to clarify and standardize how authorities apply the law in a given area.
The move follows a European Court of Justice ruling that requires Poland to recognize same-sex marriages concluded elsewhere in the EU.
Since August 23, these couples have been able to register in Poland's civil records.
The interpretation clarifies what that means for their finances.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk welcomed the decision, saying every married couple — including those in transcribed marriages — will now be treated the same, including when filing jointly.
He accused President Karol Nawrocki and opposition leaders of repeatedly blocking reform, and said his government had found a legal way around the deadlock.
"This is not just about money or convenience. This is about dignity," Tusk said.
The president's chief of staff, Paweł Szefernaker, criticized the decision, calling it an unconstitutional attempt to equate marriage with same-sex unions without a proper legislative debate.
Under the new guidance, couples with transcribed marriages can access the same tax reliefs as other married couples, including lower inheritance and gift duties and joint income filing.
They also take on the same responsibilities, such as being liable for a spouse's debts to the state.
Couples must show they share marital property, which in some cases may require extra paperwork from foreign authorities or a court decision.
The Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) was the first Polish state body to commit to recognizing these rights, including paid leave to care for a sick spouse.
(ał)
Source: PAP