The labor reality of Ukrainian refugees in Poland: where and how much you can earn in 2024
Ukrainian refugees who were forced to leave their homes because of the war are faced with the need not only to find a safe haven, but also to provide themselves and their loved ones with a stable income. Poland has become one of the most popular countries for Ukrainians, not least due to relatively high salaries and the possibility of legal employment.
However, the question that worries many is: what employment conditions does Poland offer in 2024 and what earnings can Ukrainian workers expect?
Working conditions and legalization of employment
Ukrainians who arrived in Poland after the start of the full-scale invasion of Russia are granted the right to legal employment without the need to obtain additional permits. The European Union has extended the period of protection for Ukrainians until 2025, which allows them to work in Poland without hindrance. According to Polish legislation, all formalities related to employment are undertaken by the employer.
Wages in Poland in 2024
At the beginning of 2024, the minimum wage in Poland was 4,242 zlotys gross, and already in July of the same year it increased to 4,300 zlotys gross (approximately UAH 44,821). At the same time, the average salary in Poland reached 7,824 zlotys gross (approximately UAH 81,533), which after taxes and deductions is 5,742 zlotys (approximately UAH 59,836).
Vacancies and opportunities for Ukrainians
Ukrainians are most often looking for a job that does not require a high level of education or previous experience. The most popular jobs are fruit and vegetable pickers, sorters, cleaners, waiters and construction workers.
For those who do not speak Polish or do not have experience, the most offers are in the field of logistics, in warehouses, in the food industry and in production. The salary for such positions varies from 4,000 to 5,500 zlotys (approximately 37.2–51 thousand hryvnias).
Living conditions and expenses
Many Polish employers provide Ukrainian workers with free accommodation. Most often, these are dormitories or hostels located not far from the workplace, where 6 to 8 people can live in one room.
Therefore, Poland offers Ukrainian refugees not only safety, but also the opportunity to earn and provide for their families. In 2024, employment conditions in the country remain quite favorable, in particular due to high minimum and average wages, as well as simplified conditions for legalization of labor activity.
