Major Changes to Poland’s Immigration Rules in 2025: What Foreign Workers Need to Know

Key Changes in Poland’s Work Permit & Visa System

Labour Market Test Abolished

Previously, employers had to prove there were no suitable Polish or EU candidates for a job before hiring a foreign worker. This requirement has now been scrapped.

➡️ What’s new?

A “Protected Professions” list will replace the test. Local authorities (starostas) will now restrict work permits for certain jobs deemed well-supplied by local labour.

Introduction of Protected Professions Lists

District-level authorities will define occupation-based restrictions for foreign hires, varying by region.

➡️ Speculative inclusions could be:

• Entry-level service roles (e.g. cashiers, clerks)

• Unskilled manual labour

• Government and public sector jobs

• Creative or cultural jobs

• Agricultural jobs (seasonal or easily filled locally)

⚠️ These lists are not yet published but are expected to reflect local unemployment trends and economic needs.

Digitalisation of the Application Process

All applications for work permits must now be submitted online.

➡️ Employers must upload:

• Signed employment contracts before work begins

• Proof of legal status and business legitimacy

• This streamlines processing but also increases documentation accountability.

4. Stricter Employer Compliance Rules

Polish employers hiring foreign nationals must now:

• Demonstrate financial stability

• Prove timely tax and social security contributions

• Submit contracts before employment begins

• Ensure jobs are not on the protected list

❗ Non-compliance can lead to fines of PLN 3,000–5,000 and rejection of future applications.

Shorter Validity for Part-Time Permits

Permits for roles offering less than 50% of full-time hours will only be valid for one year.

Why This Matters for Non-EU Workers

Poland has seen a massive influx of foreign workers—over 275,000 work permits issued to Asians and Latin Americans in 2023 alone—filling vital gaps in healthcare, construction, and manufacturing. Despite stricter rules, demand for skilled and semi-skilled foreign workers remains strong.

However, the path to legal employment is now narrower and more regulated.

✅ What You Should Do Now

If you're planning to work in Poland:

• Check Job Availability: Ensure your role isn’t on the protected list in your chosen region.

• Work with Verified Employers: Partner only with Polish companies experienced in sponsoring non-EU workers.

• Prepare Documents Thoroughly: Have signed contracts and supporting paperwork ready for digital submission.

• Stay Updated: Monitor Polish immigration portals or consult licensed immigration professionals.

Final Thoughts

Poland is not closing its doors to foreign workers—but it is raising the bar for who can enter and work. With the right preparation, support, and awareness of local conditions, non-EU workers can still seize meaningful job opportunities in Poland.

If you're considering Poland as your next work destination, now is the time to act smart and stay informed.

Got questions about how these changes affect you or your workers? Leave a comment or get in touch—we’re here to help.