Poland is set to introduce reforms to its work visa program in 2025, aimed at addressing labor shortages, improving immigration compliance, and streamlining the application process for foreign professionals.
These changes, announced by the Polish government, will impact work permit requirements, visa fees, and the demand for skilled workers across various sectors, offering both challenges and opportunities for prospective applicants.
Starting January 1, 2025, foreign workers will no longer be allowed to work under civil law contracts. Employers must now provide formal employment contracts directly tied to work permits. This move seeks to ensure transparency, improve job security for foreign workers, and promote fair employment practices.
The transition will standardize terms of employment and protect workers’ rights while aligning with Poland’s labor laws.
Work permit fees will rise significantly in 2025, reflecting the country’s economic adjustments and aligning with the minimum wage. For instance, fees for the National Visa (Type D) will increase from €44.19 in 2024 to €80 in 2025.
Other visa categories, including the EU Blue Card and Seasonal Work Visa, will also see fee hikes. While these changes may increase the financial burden on applicants, they aim to better reflect the administrative costs of visa processing.
Poland is introducing a new draft law to simplify visa and residence permit procedures. This reform will enhance the monitoring of work permits and introduce stricter penalties for non-compliance, ensuring a more efficient and secure visa system. By improving oversight, the government hopes to minimize fraudulent activities and streamline the process for legitimate applicants.
Despite the tighter regulations, Poland’s expanding economy and labor shortages in critical sectors make it an attractive destination for skilled professionals. Salaries are expected to rise, particularly in fields such as IT, healthcare, engineering, and education.
Skilled trades, such as electricians and welders, as well as transportation roles, including truck drivers, are also in high demand. The country’s stable economy and its EU membership, which allows visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone, further enhance its appeal to foreign workers.
Visa fees will increase across all categories, with additional costs for dependents. Children under six years old will be exempt from fees, while reduced rates will apply to children aged six to twelve.
Poland’s revised work visa regulations offer a clearer route to permanent residency. Long-term options, such as the D-type visa and the EU Blue Card, now provide faster transitions to residency, reflecting the government’s commitment to retaining skilled foreign workers.
Applicants seeking work in Poland must follow these steps: choose the right visa type, secure a job offer, prepare documentation, submit the application, employer’s role, and receive visa approval.
Employers are central to the visa process, as they must provide formal contracts, apply for work permits on behalf of employees, and adhere to stricter compliance requirements. Non-compliance could lead to delays or rejections, emphasizing the importance of meeting regulatory standards.
Poland’s updated work visa program for 2025 reflects a balanced approach to addressing labor shortages while promoting fair practices and ensuring compliance.
