In Poland, the rules for employing foreigners will change from 2025: what Ukrainian refugees need to know
Employment is a key factor in social integration for Ukrainian refugees in Poland. Work provides not only material stability, but also helps to adapt to new conditions, find support in society and feel part of the local community. Poland, which took in millions of Ukrainians after the start of the full-scale war, is gradually changing the rules of labor relations. This is caused by the need to regulate the labor market, protect the rights of workers and ensure social equality. From January 1, 2025, new employment rules for foreigners will be introduced in the country, which will have a significant impact on the lives of Ukrainians living and working in Poland.
Mandatory employment contract
As informs InPoland, one of the main changes will be the mandatory conclusion of an employment contract for all foreigners working in Poland. The employment contract (umowa o praczenie) becomes the main form of employment relationship, eliminating the possibility of employment under civil law contracts, such as the contract of assignment (umowa zlecenie), which were popular among foreigners due to their flexibility.
The goal of this reform is to ensure the stability of employment and strengthen the social protection of workers. An employment contract guarantees rights such as social security, paid sick leave, health insurance and protection against wrongful dismissal. This should make the labor market more transparent and protected, both for employees and employers.
Exceptions for certain professions
The new rules provide for certain exceptions for certain categories of employees. For example, athletes, coaches, artists and representatives of some other professions will be able to work under flexible forms of contracts due to the specifics of their activities. However, such exceptions will be rare and limited to special circumstances.
Transition period and adaptation
The Polish government understands that the implementation of the new rules may create difficulties for both employees and employers, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises that have actively used civil law contracts. For this purpose, it is planned to introduce a transition period to ensure gradual adaptation to new conditions. This will enable entrepreneurs and workers to prepare for changes, avoiding sharp economic shocks.
Impact on Ukrainians in Poland
Changes in employment rules will have a significant impact on Ukrainian refugees, who make up the largest group of foreigners in Poland. Many Ukrainians, especially those who worked in the service sector, in construction or in seasonal jobs, used civil law contracts because of their simplicity and accessibility. The introduction of the labor contract will require greater responsibility from employees and employers, but will also provide stability and protection for Ukrainians who remained in Poland due to the war.
Poland continues to improve its policy regarding foreign workers. The government seeks to find a balance between the interests of employers, employees and the state. Changes in employment rules can be an important step towards stabilizing the labor market, but for the successful integration of foreigners, in particular Ukrainians, additional initiatives aimed at supporting refugees, their professional adaptation and social integration are needed.
The new rules can be both a challenge and an opportunity for Ukrainians in Poland. On the one hand, it will require more efforts for employment, on the other hand, it will provide stability and social protection, which are important for successful adaptation in a new country.
