In Polish: Spread walutowy
This is the word you will see in bank documents.
Definition
A currency spread is the difference between the selling and buying rate of a currency in the bank's exchange table. In loans indexed or denominated in a foreign currency, the bank converted the loan payout at the buying rate and the instalments at the selling rate, so the spread was an extra cost for the borrower. This concerns mainly old Swiss franc mortgages.
What it means for you
If you have a foreign-currency loan, the spread raises every instalment paid in złoty at the bank's rate. Since 26 August 2011 you may repay instalments directly in the loan currency and buy it more cheaply, e.g. at an exchange office. A mortgage in złoty repaid from income in złoty has no spread.
Full entry in Polish, with a worked example and sources
Frequently asked questions
What is the spread in a Swiss franc mortgage?
The difference between the bank's selling and buying rate for the franc. The bank paid out the loan at the buying rate and collected instalments at the selling rate.
Can I repay a franc loan directly in francs?
Yes. Since 26 August 2011 Polish banking law allows instalments of an indexed or denominated loan to be paid directly in the currency, at no extra cost.
Does a złoty mortgage have a spread?
No. The spread concerns currency conversion. A złoty loan repaid from income in złoty needs no conversion.
Related terms
Definitions are simplified and reflect Polish law and bank practice as of October 2026. Where every word matters, the Act and your loan agreement decide. Figures in examples are indicative and are not a bank offer. The Polish version of each entry has worked examples and sources.
Other terms in “Loan agreement and borrower rights”