How Employers Can Legally Hire Foreign Workers in Poland: A Complete Guide

Poland has become one of the most essential destinations in Europe for foreign workers. The country is experiencing labour shortages in sectors such as transport, construction, agriculture, healthcare, and IT. As a result, employers are actively recruiting talent from outside the European Union to fill critical positions.

In 2025, Poland introduced significant updates to its immigration and employment system. These changes simplify some steps for employers but also increase compliance requirements. This article outlines the complete process of hiring a foreign worker in Poland, in accordance with the new regulations.

What Changed in 2025

Poland introduced new rules from June 2025. Employers should be aware of the following updates:

Step-by-Step Hiring Process for Employers in 2025

Step 1: Define the Job and Employment Conditions

Employers must prepare a valid employment contract that complies with Polish labour law. The contract should include job duties, salary, working hours, and location. In 2025, it will be mandatory to submit this contract in the digital system before the worker starts employment.

Step 2: Submit the Application Online

All applications are now submitted online through the official government portal praca.gov.pl. Employers must attach the required documents, including the employment contract, company registration details (KRS/NIP/REGON), salary declaration, and the worker's details.

Step 3: Work Permit Issuance

The Voivodeship office reviews the application. If approved, the work permit is issued electronically. Work permits may be classified as Type A, B, C, D, or E, depending on the specific situation.

Step 4: Worker Visa Application

If the worker is outside Poland, they must apply for a National Visa (Type D) at the Polish Embassy, using the work permit as the supporting document. If the worker is already in Poland on a legal stay, they may apply directly for a Temporary Residence and Work Permit (TRC).

Step 5: Worker Arrival and Start of Work

Once the visa is granted, the worker can travel to Poland. Employers are required to register them with ZUS (social security) and notify the authorities through the digital system. Employers must also provide health insurance and accommodation arrangements.

Step 6: Compliance and Notifications

Under the new rules, employers are required to report specific situations through the system. This includes situations where the worker does not start within two months, ends the job earlier than expected, takes a break longer than two months, or if there are changes to the employment conditions, such as wages, hours, or the workplace.

Step 7: Temporary Residence Card (TRC)

For long-term employment, the worker must apply for a TRC, which combines residence and work rights. This card is typically valid for one to three years and can be renewed as needed.

Documents Required in 2025

Processing Times and Fees

Work Permit Fees

Jobs in High Demand in 2025

Common Reasons for Rejection

Applications may be rejected if:

• Required documents are missing or incorrect
• The worker's passport is valid for less than six months
• The job offer does not meet minimum wage standards
• The position falls under a restricted profession in that district
• The worker has a criminal record

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Frequently Asked Questions – Hiring Foreign Workers in Poland (2025)

1. Do employers need a labour market test in 2025?
No, the labour market test requirement was removed in June 2025.

2. How are work permit applications submitted now?
All applications must be filed online through the government portal praca.gov.pl.

3. What types of work permits exist in Poland?
The main types are Type A, B, C, D, and E, depending on the employment situation.

4. How long does it take to get a work permit?
On average, between one and three months.

5. How long does visa processing take?
It usually takes three to eight months, depending on the embassy's workload.

6. What is the minimum wage for foreign workers in 2025?
The minimum wage is PLN 4,242 gross per month.

7. Can a worker start before getting a visa or TRC?
No, they must first obtain the proper visa or residence card.

8. What jobs are most in demand in Poland?
Truck drivers, construction workers, welders, agricultural workers, IT specialists, and healthcare staff.

9. Who applies for the work permit?
The employer applies for the work permit, not the worker.

10. Do EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need a work permit in Poland?
No, they can work in Poland without a work permit.

11. What is a TRC?
A Temporary Residence Card that allows a foreigner to live and work in Poland for one to three years.

12. Can workers change employers with the same permit?
No, they need a new work permit if they want to change employers.

13. Is a police clearance certificate required?
Yes, a valid criminal record certificate is mandatory.

14. What are the employer's obligations after hiring?
Employers must register the worker with ZUS, report the start of their employment, and provide insurance.

15. What happens if employers don't report changes?
They risk fines of up to 50,000 PLN.

16. Can family members join a worker in Poland?
Yes, once the worker holds a Temporary Residence Card, they can apply for family reunification.

17. Why are applications rejected?
Common reasons include missing documents, a salary below minimum wage, restricted job positions, or a criminal record.

18. What is the processing time for a TRC?
Usually three to six months.

19. Are there restricted jobs in 2025?
Yes, some districts maintain a list of protected professions where foreign workers are not eligible for hire.

20. Can agencies help employers with the process?
Yes, licensed recruitment and immigration agencies such as AtoZ Serwis Plus can manage the process legally and efficiently.