Beginning June 1, 2025, Poland will implement stricter regulations on the employment of foreign nationals, following the signing of the Act on Conditions for Permitting the Employment of Foreigners by President Andrzej Duda, as reported by Schengen.News.
New Law Aims to Curb Abuse and Modernize Employment Procedures
The legislation, as outlined in a report by Le Global, is designed to:
- Combat abuse in the foreign labor system
- Streamline and digitize employment procedures
- Reduce administrative backlog
The law clearly defines:
- Employment criteria for foreign workers
- Decision-making authorities
- Application procedures and documentation requirements
READ MORE: Seasonal Work Visas in Europe 2025: Opportunities, Requirements, and Top Destinations
Support Programs and Exemptions Included
The act introduces Labour Fund-funded programs aimed at:
- Helping foreign nationals find employment
- Integrating newcomers into Polish society
Certain categories of foreigners will be exempt from parts of the law, including:
- Permanent residents
- Refugees
- Holders of humanitarian stay permits
The law also outlines the types of businesses that foreign nationals can legally own and operate in Poland.
Concerns Over Growing Foreign Workforce
The legislative shift follows data from the Labour Market Barometer, which revealed a sharp rise in foreign workers:
- 2022: 260,000 foreign workers
- 2023: 530,000 foreign workers
While foreign labor helps fill shortages in critical sectors, trade unions have voiced concerns about the potential displacement of local workers and long-term impacts on domestic employment.
Tighter Visa Rules Reflect Broader Strategy
In conjunction with the employment reforms, Polish authorities have tightened visa issuance rules, including for:
- Family members of foreign workers
This move is part of a broader strategy to better regulate foreign labor flows and ensure a balanced approach to workforce management in the country.
