What regulatory changes affect the legalisation of the employment of foreign nationals in 2025?
- dariakalenikova
- Jul 7
- 2 min read
The new regulations aim to both simplify procedures and increase control over the legality of employment. What exactly will change from 1 June 2025 and what the implications will be for employers and foreigners themselves.
1. Abolishing the labour market test
Until now, employers had to check whether a person available in the local labour market could be hired for the position - the so-called labour market test. From June 2025, this requirement is abolished.
Instead, local lists of occupations will be introduced, which will determine for which professions the issuing of work permits to foreigners will be facilitated or restricted. This will speed up the hiring process, but will require employers to keep track of updates to these lists.
2. Full digitisation of processes
From 1 June 2025, all formalities related to the employment of foreigners will be carried out exclusively electronically, through the praca.gov.pl platform. Employers will be obliged to submit applications, statements and copies of contracts electronically. Paper documents will no longer be accepted, which requires appropriate organisational and technical preparation of companies.
3. New notification deadlines and information obligations
The new regulations set precise deadlines for reporting the employment of foreigners:
Notification of commencement of work within 7 days of commencement.
Notification of not starting work within 14 days of the planned start date.
In the case of permits, the obligation to report interruptions or termination of work within 2 months (previously it was 3 months).
These changes impose greater responsibility and discipline on employers when communicating with authorities.
4. Tougher penalties for illegal employment
The amendment provides for stricter financial sanctions for employers who employ foreigners in contravention of the law:
The penalty for illegal employment of a foreigner is from PLN 3 000 to PLN 50 000.
The penalty for failure to declare employment or errors in documentation ranges from PLN 1,000 to PLN 5,000. Fines can be imposed directly by the State Labour Inspectorate or the Border Guard, without the need for lengthy court proceedings.
5. Restrictions on visas and permits
New regulations are changing the rules on visas authorising work in Poland. From 2025, transit visas, student visas and visas issued by other Schengen countries will no longer entitle foreigners to work legally in Poland.
In addition, a one-year grace period has been introduced for new employment agencies that are just starting up and want to employ foreigners.
The employer must also verify that the foreigner is legally in Poland and that their documents allow them to work.
The residence card should contain the annotation “access to the labour market” or be linked to a decision on a residence and work permit.
A valid residence card alone without a proper legal basis does not entitle the person to work.
Do you need support?
As a temporary employment agency we offer:
Verification of documents and legality of stay of foreigners,
Comprehensive management of the employment legalisation process.
Employing foreigners requires precision and up-to-date knowledge - we are happy to help you through the process safely and legally.
