Upcoming changes to work permits in Poland on 2025

Upcoming Changes to Poland’s Visa and Work Permit Laws in 2025

Poland, a country experiencing dynamic growth and increasing foreign workforce demand, is set to implement transformative changes to its visa and work permit regulations. The draft law, anticipated to take effect on July 1, 2025, aims to streamline administrative processes, tighten employment regulations, and address labour market challenges. Here's a detailed look at the upcoming reforms based on information from official Polish government sources and expert analysis.

Key Changes to Poland’s Immigration Laws

1. Mandatory Employment Contracts

   • Requirement: All foreign workers must be employed under an employment contract (Umowa o pracę). Employment-based on civil law contracts (e.g., service contracts) will be prohibited.
   • Exceptions: This rule excludes holders of the EU Blue Card, Ukrainian nationals, and those exempted from work permit requirements.

2. Fully Digitalized Work Permit Process

   • Work permit applications will be online to reduce processing delays and paperwork.
   • Employers involved in significant economic or environmental projects will benefit from priority processing.

3. Enhanced Verification Mechanisms

   • Polish consulates will verify visa applications using access to employers' and employees' tax and social security records.
   • This step aims to curb fraudulent practices and strengthen compliance.

4. Employer Reporting Obligations

   • Employers must notify authorities if:
     • A foreign worker does not commence employment within one month of receiving a work permit.
     • Employment is terminated for a worker holding a residence permit with the right to work.

5. Stronger Penalties for Non-Compliance

   • Employers found illegally employing foreign workers face fines of up to PLN 30,000.
   • Authorities, including the Border Guard and National Labour Inspectorate, will have enhanced powers for unannounced inspections.

6. Changes to Visa Eligibility

   • Foreigners in Poland on certain visas (e.g., sports events, air transit, educational exchanges) will no longer be eligible to apply for work or residence permits.

7. Revised Fee Structures

   • The work permit fee will not exceed Poland's minimum wage.
   • Seasonal work permits and declarations on entrustment of work will have a fee cap of 10% of the minimum wage.

Implications for Employers and Foreign Workers

These changes reflect the Polish government’s commitment to improving immigration efficiency while ensuring compliance with labour laws. Here’s how these reforms will impact stakeholders:

• Employers:

  • Businesses must review their hiring practices and ensure all foreign workers are employed under appropriate contracts.
  • Accurate record-keeping is essential to avoid penalties during inspections.

• Foreign Workers:

  • Those seeking employment in Poland should prepare for stricter documentation requirements and ensure their employment contracts comply with the new rules.
  • Applicants should be aware of restricted visa categories to avoid issues with work or residence permits.

Why Are These Changes Being Made?

Poland is addressing several challenges:

• The cash-for-visas scandal highlighted gaps in the current system.
• The labour market faces a mismatch between job vacancies and available skills.
• There is a growing need to combat illegal employment and protect workers' rights.

These reforms aim to make Poland’s immigration system more transparent, efficient, and aligned with the country’s economic priorities.

Next Steps for Employers and Workers

1. For Employers:

   • Familiarize yourself with the updated regulations.
   • Digitize your application processes and ensure compliance with the reporting obligations.
   • Seek priority processing if involved in critical projects.

2. For Foreign Workers:

   • Verify the type of visa required for your intended employment.
   • Ensure that your potential employer offers a valid employment contract.
   • Stay updated on processing timelines and fees.

Conclusion

The 2025 reforms to Poland’s visa and work permit system signify a pivotal shift in its immigration policies. While these changes might pose initial challenges, they are designed to benefit both employers and foreign workers by fostering a well-regulated labour market. If you plan to work in Poland or hire foreign talent, it’s crucial to adapt to these changes and seek legal advice when needed.

You can refer to official resources such as the Polish Ministry of Family and Social Policy and Polish Border Guard websites for more detailed information.

Sources:

• Polish Ministry of Family and Social Policy
• Polish Border Guard
• Vialto Partners
• Fragomen

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