New rules for employing foreigners in Poland from 2025: what will change from June 1

In Poland, the rules for employing foreigners will change from June 1, 2025. Find out what innovations await employers and employees, and how Ukrainians can prepare for the changes

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad

GET

On June 1, 2025, a new law on the employment of foreigners will come into force in Poland — “On the conditions for admitting foreigners to work in the Republic of Poland.” The document was signed on April 10, 2025, and provides for comprehensive changes aimed at simplifying procedures, digitization, and strengthening control over the observance of foreigners' labor rights. The law covers both employers and employees and provides for the introduction of new approaches to legalizing the employment of citizens of other countries. We will tell you more about the changes in this article.

By the way, we discussed the requirements for the employment of minors in Poland in our previous article.

What changes to employment rules will come into force on June 1 in Poland?

Strict sanctions for unscrupulous employers

One of the key objectives of the new law is to combat violations in the field of labor relations. In recent years, Poland has seen an increase in the number of cases of abuse during the hiring of foreign workers, both by employers and intermediaries.

From now on, significant fines ranging from PLN 3,000 to PLN 50,000 will be imposed for violations of the terms of employment of foreigners. Particularly harsh penalties will be imposed on so-called “gray intermediaries” — individuals and companies that do not formally employ foreigners but only help them obtain residence and work permits without providing real employment. In such cases, the provincial governor has the right to refuse to issue a work permit, even if all documents have been submitted correctly.

For foreigners, this is a signal to be careful when choosing an employer and to only contact verified companies or use legal assistance, for example, from professional migration lawyers at Visit Ukraine — they will help you check all the conditions and avoid fraud.

Abolition of the labor market test: simplification, but with reservations

Another important innovation is the complete abolition of the so-called “labor market test.” Previously, before hiring a foreigner, the employer had to prove that there was no suitable Polish candidate for the position. This significantly complicated the process and delayed the issuance of permits.

From June 2025, this procedure will be abolished, opening up faster access to the labor market. At the same time, a mechanism will be introduced that allows the mayor to restrict the employment of foreigners in certain professions in the event of a deterioration in the local labor market. Such restrictions will be introduced in agreement with the county council for labor market issues.

In this way, the innovations strike a balance between protecting the interests of local workers and the need to attract labor from abroad.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Electronic permits: transition to full digitalization

Digitalization is becoming another key pillar of the reform. The law stipulates that within two years of its entry into force, all institutions responsible for the employment of foreigners must switch to a fully electronic model of operation. This means:

● electronic submission of documents;

● digital document flow between authorities;

● electronic receipt of work permits.

For foreigners, this means faster procedures and less risk of losing documents or human error. However, it is important to bear in mind that digital systems also require a clear understanding of the procedure, so legal support remains relevant — qualified lawyers will help you quickly adapt to the new conditions.

What else do Ukrainians need to know about employment in Poland?

The new law is not limited to technical innovations. It comprehensively revises approaches to the integration of foreigners into Polish society and the labor market:

● New powers for authorities — clearly defined functions for each authority, which will contribute to the coordination of procedures.

● Professional adaptation — measures are provided to help foreigners adapt to the Polish labor market.

● Social integration — mechanisms to support foreigners in better interacting with local communities have been included.

Foreigners' support centers — district labor offices will be authorized to establish specialized consultation centers where foreigners can receive assistance, information, and support.

These changes create a safer and more predictable environment for legal employment in Poland. At the same time, they require foreigners to pay more attention to details and legal subtleties.

If you are planning to work in Poland, do not delay your preparations. And to be sure of the legality of your stay and work, contact the professional migration lawyers at Visit Ukraine, who know all the nuances of the new legislation and will help you act safely and effectively.

We remind you! In 2025, the share of employers hiring Ukrainians in Poland decreased significantly. Read about the trends in the labor market, where Ukrainians most often work, their salary levels, and who their new competitors are in our previous article.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.