Polish labor law changes reflect new employment trends

Photo by Kamil Gliwinski on Unsplash
By Jennifer Blair

Polish labor laws changes are introduced  during employment welfare reforms, as reported by Fragomen on May 15, 2025.

 

The changes came into effect on May 1, and include stricter rules on the employment of foreigners, expanded social benefits for individuals unable to work, and plans to trial shorter workweek hours in selected industries.

 

The updates are part of Poland’s broader National Reconstruction Plan, aimed at modernizing employment and improving workforce welfare. With unemployment stable and labor shortages in several sectors, these adjustments reflect both social and economic priorities.

 

The Social Insurance Institution (ZUS), has started paying new monthly supplements to individuals completely incapable of work and independent functioning. This benefit, backdated to the beginning of 2025, is PLN 2,520 gross per month for January and February 2025, and then an increased payment of PLN 2,610.72 in March following routine indexation.

 

Meanwhile, the employment of foreigners in Poland now requires new digital procedures, new minimum wage compliance, and authorities have greater powers to enforce misconduct.

 

Implications: What This Means for Employers and Workers

 

These changes come with significant implications for both business owners and workers, especially in industries that rely heavily on migrant labor such as agriculture, construction, and domestic services.

 

For employers, the new regulations demand tighter compliance and more rigorous hiring protocols, especially when recruiting foreign workers. All employment contracts must now be submitted electronically before work begins, and foreign hires must receive no less than the national minimum wage.

 

Failure to comply could result in fines from PLN 3,000 to PLN 50,000, up from the previous ceiling of PLN 30,000.

 

For employees, the expanded supplement offers greater financial support. With monthly payments rising to PLN 2,610.72 and retroactive benefits dating back to January 2025. The streamlined payment process, combined with existing social pensions, provides an improved administration service for recipients.

 

For authorities, the updated laws enhance oversight capabilities. The State Labor Inspectorate and Border Guard now have the power to conduct unannounced inspections, enabling faster identification of abuses and improved enforcement of wage and contract standards.

 

Government Priorities: Trends and Pilot Projects

 

These measures are part of Poland’s ongoing efforts to balance labor market flexibility with social protection. They also align with the country’s EU obligations around fair work and human rights.

 

Additionally, the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy announced plans for a pilot program to explore shortened workweek hours. The program aims to test whether reduced hours can boost productivity, worker satisfaction, and economic output.

 

Key facts:

  • The pilot is open to companies, local governments, NGOs, and trade unions.

  • Full program rules are expected by the end of June 2025.

  • A dedicated task force will monitor the results and suggest new laws.

 

This pilot reflects broader global interest in ideas such as the four-day workweek and other flexible scheduling models. While details remain unannounced, Poland’s approach could shape future debates around employee well-being and job quality.

 

Background and Policy Context

 

Poland’s labor reform is occurring at a time when European nations are reassessing their workforce structures. The National Reconstruction Plan, funded partly through the European Union, has targeted:

 

  • Modernization of public administration
  • Reduction of informal labor
  • Digital transformation of services

 

Employers and HR departments will need to adapt quickly, updating systems to comply with new hiring procedures, minimum wage protections, and digital reporting tools.

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