Poland Work Permit Changes: Mandatory Online Contract Submission

Starting in July and August 2025, Poland will enforce new regulations requiring employers to submit employment contracts for foreign workers through the Praca.gov.pl platform before work begins. Poland's updated work permit regulations are designed to improve oversight and ensure adherence to labor standards. The following sections outline the major modifications, necessary compliance measures, and how these adjustments will affect both businesses and international employees.

Key Changes in Poland’s Work Permit Process

1. Mandatory Electronic Contract Submission

Under the new rules:

• Special Permission hires (from July 1, 2025): Employers must upload signed contracts to Praca.gov.pl before work starts.

• Standard work permit hires (from August 1, 2025): The same requirement applies.

Previously, employers did not need to submit contracts, making this a major procedural shift.

2. Compliance Requirements for Employers

To avoid penalties (up to PLN 5,000), employers must:

✔ Submit contracts digitally via Praca.gov.pl (no paper/email submissions).

✔ Employment contracts must comply with Poland's 2025 minimum wage standards (PLN 4,666 gross) and stipulated working hour regulations.

✔ Notify authorities if a worker fails to start within two months or leaves early.

3. Broader Immigration Reforms

The changes align with Poland's broader initiative to reform employment regulations, featuring:

• Replacing labor market tests with a protected professions list.

• Transitioning from civil-law agreements (such as umowa zlecenie) to standard employment contracts

• Full digitalization of work permit applications via Praca.gov.pl.

Impact of Poland Work Permit Changes

For Employers

✅ Better compliance with labor laws.

⚠ Higher administrative burden due to digital submissions.

⚠ Risk of fines for non-compliance.

For Foreign Workers

✅ Stronger job security with formal contracts.

⚠ Stricter hiring process may slow recruitment.

How Employers Can Prepare

1. Register on Praca.gov.pl and train HR teams.

2. Update contracts to meet minimum wage and working hour rules.

3. Monitor deadlines for submissions and notifications.

4. Consult legal experts for compliance support.

For more details, visit the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy.

Conclusion

The Poland work permit changes in 2025 introduce stricter rules for hiring foreign workers, emphasizing digital compliance. Employers must adapt quickly to avoid penalties and ensure smooth hiring processes.

Need help navigating the new rules? Contact our immigration experts for tailored guidance.

Read more about Poland’s labor reforms here) Praca.gov.pl)