A new act on the employment of foreigners has been in force since 1 June 2025. We explain what changed for employers and HR — from the abolition of the labour market test to higher penalties — and how to prepare.
1. What this act is and since when it applies
This is the Act of 20 March 2025 on the conditions for permitting the entrustment of work to foreigners in the territory of the Republic of Poland (Journal of Laws 2025 item 621), in force since 1 June 2025. It replaced the previous provisions of the Act of 20 April 2004 on the promotion of employment.
2. Key changes
| Area | What changed |
|---|---|
| Labour market test | Abolished |
| Form of the procedure | Full digitalisation (praca.gov.pl) |
| Names of permits | From 1.01.2026 new designations instead of types A–E |
| Contract obligation | Submitting the contract to the authority and notifying the start of work |
| Sanctions | Fine of up to PLN 50,000, National Labour Inspectorate fines of up to PLN 10,000 |
3. Abolition of the labour market test
The labour market test (the starosta's opinion) has been abolished — a real simplification of the procedure. Districts may, however, regulate the number of foreigners employed in the local labour market.
4. New obligations and sanctions
New obligations have been added: submitting the contract and notifying the start of work (as a rule within 7 days), and penalties for the unlawful entrustment of work have risen to PLN 50,000.
Show more: what to do step by step after the act entered into force
What to do step by step (employer)
Set up an organisation account on praca.gov.pl, update your HR procedures (who files applications and notifications), check whether the employee qualifies for a declaration or needs a permit, and keep complete documentation in case of an inspection.
Do you employ foreigners? Don't be caught off guard by the new rules
We will guide you through the procedure in line with the 2025 act — from choosing the right route to the obligations after hiring and the protection of the employee's residence status.
Book a free consultationLegal notice: this article is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Legal status: 2026 (Act of 20 March 2025, Journal of Laws 2025 item 621, together with implementing regulations).
Sources: Act of 20 March 2025, Journal of Laws 2025 item 621; ISAP; PIP. The above discussion reflects our own analysis; the cited provisions should be verified against the current text of the act before taking action.