As of June 1, 2025, new regulations concerning the employment of foreigners have come into force in Poland. The changes aim to simplify procedures, strengthen oversight, and increase the legality of employment. Here are the key updates:
🔹 1. Digitalization of Procedures
Applications for work (including declarations of intent to hire and seasonal work permits) must be submitted exclusively online via the praca.gov.pl portal. Paper documents will no longer be accepted.
🔹 2. Abolishment of the Labor Market Test
Employers no longer need to prove that no Polish candidates are available for a given job. Instead, local authorities (starosts) may define specific industries or professions where hiring foreigners will be restricted.
🔹 3. Employer Obligations
- A copy of the employment contract must be submitted to the labor office before the foreigner starts work.
- Contracts written in a foreign language must be translated into Polish by a sworn translator.
- Employers must not have any outstanding debts with the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) or the tax office.
🔹 4. Visa Restrictions
It is not allowed to employ individuals who are in Poland on visas issued by other Schengen countries or under visa-free travel.
🔹 5. Stricter Penalties
Illegal employment can result in fines of up to PLN 50,000. The Labor Inspectorate and Border Guard can also issue fines up to PLN 10,000.
🔹 6. Minimum Employment Conditions
- Minimum employment must be at least ¼ of a full-time position.
- Wages must not be lower than the national minimum wage.
- Foreigners must be treated no less favorably than Polish workers in the same position.