Learn key criteria to work as an international student in...
Author: Agnieszka Zagroba
New Changes of Employing Foreigners in Poland for 2025
Discover key changes in employing foreigners in Poland for 2025: no labor test, full digitization, new permit rules, contract obligations & stricter checks. The new regulations regarding the employment of foreigners in Poland were passed by the Senate on March 13, 2025, and adopted by the Sejm with amendments on March 20, 2025. The law was signed by the President of the Republic of Poland on April 10, 2025 and is now awaiting publication in the Journal of Laws. It will come into force on the first day of the month following 14 days after its official publication. At this stage, we already know it will not be May 1st – the most likely effective date is June 1st. Several new updates have been made regarding employments of foreigners in Poland, as we will summarize it for you in this article. 1. Elimination of the labor market test The obligation to conduct a labor market test, which required checking if there were any available Polish candidates for a given job position, is being eliminated. This change aims to simplify the procedures and accelerate the process of obtaining work permits for foreigners. 2. Full digitization of procedures The process of obtaining work permits will be fully digitized. Applications will be submitted via the electronic system. Additionally, employers will be required to upload copies of the contracts signed with foreign workers into the system before the worker’s job starts, and for seasonal work, this must be done within 7 days after the job begins. 3. New rules for issuing work permits The minimum work time for a foreigner to work in Poland is at least 1/4 of a full-time job. If the foreign worker works part-time or less (a maximum of 20 hours per week), the work permit will be issued for a maximum of one year. 4. Obligation to submit the contract Employers will be required to submit a copy of the employment or civil law contract signed with the foreign worker into the electronic system before the employment begins. 5. Work permits for new entities For newly established companies, a work permit for a foreigner will be issued for one year if the company has been operating for less than one year. 6. Reasons for refusal to issue work permits A work permit will not be issued if the entity has outstanding social security contributions or if the sole purpose of the application is to facilitate the foreigner’s entry into Poland without genuine employment intentions. 7. Increased inspections and fines for illegal employment of foreigners The National Labor Inspectorate (PIP) and the Border Guard will be authorized to conduct simultaneous, unannounced inspections of employed foreign workers in Poland. This means more frequent and thorough inspections, and employers will have increased responsibility for ensuring meeting with the regulations. The new amendment specifies a range of fines for illegal employment, from PLN 3,000 to PLN 50,000. The new regulations are set to streamline and speed up the process of employing foreigners in Poland, while also enforcing stricter rules and enhancing oversight of employers’ maintaining the law. A fully digitized employment process ensures efficiency, attracting top global talent while providing a smoother, and easier for businesses to hire foreign specialists, boosting innovation and economic growth. Employers must stay ahead of these changes to ensure they are fully prepared and avoid any potential operational challenges. Don’t wait—prepare now to navigate these updates smoothly!
ProRelo explains Health Insurance in Poland
Health insurance in Poland explained: understand the public and private health system in Poland and healthcare for EU and Non-EU citizens. Relocating to Poland involves numerous practical considerations, with health insurance being one of the most important ones. Access to healthcare is crucial for personal well-being and a key requirement for immigration purposes. Understanding the medical insurance in Poland is essential for foreigners, as your nationality, employment status, and residency will all determine the type of health insurance available to you. 1. Types of Health Insurance in Poland Foreigners in Poland can choose from the two main types of health insurance: public health insurance and private health insurance. Public Health Insurance: Administered by the National Health Fund (NFZ – Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia), this system provides access to a wide range of healthcare services for individuals who qualify. Private Health Insurance: Often required for certain visa categories or as an additional option for those not covered under the public system, commercial health insurance is available through private providers. 2. Health Insurance for EU/EEA Citizens For EU/EEA citizens, access to the public health insurance system is relatively straightforward. EU Citizens with work visa: If you are employed in Poland, your employer will register you with NFZ, and contributions will be automatically deducted from your salary. This enrollment grants you full access to the public healthcare system. Students in Poland: All foreign students are required to have health insurance for the entire duration of their studies. The health insurance possession can be proven with various documents, including an insurance policy, ZUS ZZA form, EHIC, or employer certification of contributions. EU students with an EHIC are covered for emergency treatment, but those needing ongoing care must register additional documents with the NFZ, while non-EU students can either purchase private insurance or enroll in the NFZ system by signing an agreement and paying contributions. Non-EU students with a Karta Polaka can receive free health insurance through their University. Cross-Border Workers: If you live in Poland but work in another EU country, you may be insured in that country but still have the right to receive healthcare services in Poland. The S1 form is crucial in these situations, ensuring access to healthcare services across borders. Unemployed EU Citizens: EU citizens who are not employed can voluntarily join the public health insurance system based on their residency. However, should they leave Poland, it is necessary to deregister from both their residency and public insurance. 3. Health Insurance for Non-EU Citizens Non-EU nationals must have valid health insurance throughout their stay in Poland. Visa and Immigration Requirements: Commercial health insurance is often mandatory during the visa application process. It must provide comprehensive coverage, including emergency care and hospitalization. A list of insurers and the types of insurance they offer, accepted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Poland for the visa process, can be found here. Health Insurance for Residency Permit Applications: It must cover medical treatment costs in Poland and enables you to access care from your GP (family doctor) or hospitals. Public Health Insurance for Employees: Non-EU citizens who secure employment in Poland are automatically enrolled in public health insurance (NFZ) by their employer. Family members accompanying them may also be added to NFZ coverage, but this is not automatic. An employed family member can add other family members to their NFZ coverage. 4. Choosing Health Insurance Providers in Poland Public health insurance is managed by NFZ, but private health insurance in Poland can be chosen from variety of providers. Major international companies and local Polish insurers offer health policies tailored to foreigners’ needs, particularly during the visa and family reunification processes. For those registered with NFZ, it’s important to carry an EKUZ (European Health Insurance Card) when traveling within the EU, ensuring access to healthcare services abroad. 5. Switching Health Insurance Providers in Poland Poland does not allow switching public health insurance providers, as NFZ is the sole public healthcare provider. However, for private health insurance, you can change providers at any time, depending on the terms of your insurance agreement. 6. Maintaining Health Insurance in Poland During Unemployment If you lose your job in Poland but remain a resident, you can continue contributing to NFZ on a voluntary basis to maintain access to healthcare services. This ensures uninterrupted healthcare coverage during periods of unemployment. 7. Health Insurance for Children Children of foreigners legally residing in Poland are eligible for public health insurance through NFZ if at least one parent is registered. Need Assistance? Reach out to us today to ensure a smooth transition and continuous healthcare coverage during your stay in Poland.
Top Family Things to Do in Wrocław: Kid-Friendly Adventures Await
Are you considering a move to Wrocław or have you recently relocated? This vibrant Polish city is brimming with family-friendly activities and adventures that are sure to delight both young and old. Read our blog to explore the top family things to do in Wrocław.