Starting June 1, 2025, Poland will implement a new set of regulations that will significantly tighten the conditions under which foreign nationals can work in the country. The changes follow the signing of the Act on Conditions for Permitting the Employment of Foreigners in the Territory of Poland by President Andrzej Duda, Schengen.
The reform is part of the Polish government’s broader effort to address systemic inefficiencies and abuses within the foreign employment system, while ensuring greater control and digitalisation of labor-related procedures. It also aims to reduce the growing backlog of employment cases handled by public authorities, according to a report by Le Global.
New Framework for Foreign Employment
The newly signed act outlines the specific conditions under which foreign nationals can be employed in Poland. It designates the responsible authorities, clarifies the procedural steps for obtaining work authorization, and introduces programs aimed at integrating foreign workers into the Polish labor market. These integration initiatives, which include job support services, are funded through the Labour Fund.
Additionally, the law defines the types of business activities foreign nationals may operate in Poland, while explicitly stating which groups are excluded from the act’s provisions. These exemptions include individuals with permanent residency, recognized refugees, and those granted humanitarian protection—many of whom are governed by separate Polish legislation or international agreements.
The act also introduces clearer boundaries around labor activities that are not directly tied to the Polish labor market, ensuring they are regulated independently of the new employment framework.
Concerns Over Impact on Domestic Workforce
The changes come amid rising concerns over the impact of a growing foreign labor force on local workers. According to the Labour Market Barometer, the number of international workers in Poland more than doubled between 2022 and 2023—from 260,000 to 530,000.
While foreign workers have been crucial in filling labor shortages across key sectors, Polish trade unions have voiced concerns that this rapid increase may create competitive pressure for domestic workers, affecting wages and job security.
In parallel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Poland reported in June 2023 a one-third decline in the number of work visas issued by Polish consulates, reflecting tightened visa policies. Authorities also introduced stricter rules for foreign nationals seeking to visit family members employed in Poland.
Looking Ahead
With the enforcement of the new employment law set for June 2025, many foreign nationals currently eligible to work in Poland may face new limitations or disqualification under the updated criteria. At the same time, the law is intended to modernize and bring greater transparency to the employment process, ensuring fairer access and reducing opportunities for misuse.
As the new rules take shape, both employers and foreign workers are advised to stay informed about the evolving legal framework and prepare for upcoming procedural changes. The Polish government is expected to issue additional guidelines and digital tools to support implementation in the months ahead.
