Work in Poland

The Vibrant Workforce and Business Environment in Poland

Poland is a country located in Central Europe and shares its borders with several countries, including Germany to the west, the Czech Republic and Slovakia to the south, Ukraine and Belarus to the east, and Lithuania and Russia's Kaliningrad Oblast to the northeast. The capital city of Poland is Warsaw. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Poland had a population of approximately 38 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in Europe. Polish is the official language of Poland.

The currency used in Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN). Poland has a diverse and rapidly growing economy. It is considered one of the largest and most developed economies in Central Europe. Key sectors include manufacturing, agriculture, information technology, and services. Poland has a rich cultural heritage, with contributions to literature, music, art, and science. Poland boasts a variety of tourist attractions, including historic cities like Krakow, beautiful natural landscapes, and cultural sites such as Auschwitz-Birkenau, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Overview of the Labour Market:

If you're considering working in Poland, here is some information about the country and its work-related aspects:

• Work Opportunities: Poland offers a range of work opportunities, particularly in sectors like information technology, manufacturing, finance, and healthcare. The job market has been growing steadily, and there is a demand for skilled professionals.
• Work Visa: If you're a non-European Union (EU) citizen, you will typically need a work visa or residence permit to work in Poland legally. The specific requirements and application process may vary depending on your nationality and the type of work you plan to do. It's advisable to check with the nearest Polish consulate or embassy for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements.
• Language: While many international companies operate in Poland and use English as a business language, especially in larger cities, knowledge of the Polish language can be an advantage, especially for certain roles and in smaller towns.
• Cost of Living: The cost of living in Poland is generally lower than in many Western European countries. However, it can vary significantly depending on the city and your lifestyle.
• Salaries: Salaries in Poland can be competitive, particularly in sectors where there is a high demand for skilled professionals. Wages can vary greatly depending on your occupation and experience.
• Working Conditions: Poland has standard European working conditions, including regulations regarding working hours, overtime pay, and paid leave.
• Healthcare: Poland has a public healthcare system, and as a worker, you will typically contribute to this system through social security contributions. Private healthcare options are also available.
• Taxes: Poland has a progressive tax system, and income tax rates can vary depending on your income level. It's essential to understand the tax regulations in Poland to ensure compliance.
• Job Search: You can search for job opportunities in Poland through various channels, including online job portals, company websites, and networking. 
• Work Culture: Polish work culture is generally formal and punctual. It's essential to be respectful and professional in your interactions with colleagues and superiors.
• Quality of Life: Poland offers a good quality of life with access to healthcare, education, and cultural amenities. The country has a rich history and offers a diverse range of experiences.

Types of Poland Visa

Poland offers several types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit. Here are some of the common types of visas for Poland:

1. Schengen Tourist Visa (Short-Stay Visa - Type C)
   - This visa allows you to visit Poland and other Schengen Area countries for tourism, family visits, or business meetings. It's typically issued for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
2. National Visa (D-Type Visa):
   - This visa is for long-term stays in Poland, including purposes such as work, study, family reunification, or long-term stays. It's issued for periods longer than 90 days.
3. Student Visa:
   - If you plan to study in Poland, you will need a student visa. This type of visa is typically issued to individuals enrolled in Polish educational institutions.
4. Work Visa:
   If you intend to work in Poland, you'll need a work visa. This often requires an employment contract from a Polish employer.
5. Business Visa:
   - A business visa allows you to visit Poland for business-related activities such as meetings, conferences, or negotiations.
6. Family Reunification Visa:
   - If you have family members who are Polish citizens or legal residents, you can apply for a family reunification visa to join them in Poland.
7. Medical Visa:
   - This type of visa is for individuals seeking medical treatment in Poland.
8. Cultural, Scientific, and Sports Visa:
   - If you are participating in cultural events, scientific research, or sports competitions in Poland, you may apply for this type of visa.

Please note that visa requirements and application processes may change over time, so it's crucial to check with the nearest Polish consulate or embassy and refer to the official Polish government website for the most up-to-date information on visa types, requirements, and application procedures. And for any assistance, we are here to guide you.

Steps to apply for Poland work permit:

Your potential employer must submit a work permit application on your behalf. Let's presume you've secured a job offer from a willing employer, and your stay is authorized, either through a visa you've acquired or a residence permit.

To obtain a work permit in Poland, your prospective employer is required to complete an application that includes the company's name where you will be employed and a description of your intended role within the organization. If you've secured a job in Poland, your employer is responsible for submitting the work permit application on your behalf.

Below are the essential procedures for submitting a work permit application:

Step 1: Conducting a Labor Market Test

Before seeking a foreign work visa, the employer is obligated to perform a labor market assessment. The purpose of this assessment is to determine if there are any eligible Polish or other EU citizens who can fulfill the job requirements. Preference is given to these individuals over foreign applicants. 

If no qualified local candidates are found, the employer can proceed with the work visa application on your behalf.

Step 2: The Application Process

The employer's application must be accompanied by documentation verifying the fulfillment of the following requirements:

• Adherence to all relevant employment regulations, including those outlined in the Labor Code.
• Compliance with the stipulation from the Voivodeship Office, which mandates that remuneration should not fall below 30% of the average monthly wage.
• Work permits are issued by the local "voivode" (regional government authority) and are granted for the duration necessary to carry out the work specified in your employer's declaration. To validate the work permit, you are required to enter into an employment contract with the employer who applied for the permit.

Step 3: Issuing the Work Permit

Employees need to be aware that their work permits are exclusively applicable to the company that initiated the application process. Should they opt to switch employers, the new company must request additional authorization.

Your employer has a legal responsibility to:

• Furnish you with a written employment contract.
• Supply a translated version of the employment contract in your chosen language.
• Verify the validity and retain a copy of your residence permit or visa.
• Notify social security and health insurance organizations within seven days of signing the employment contract, granting you access to free healthcare, sick leave, and other social benefits.

Benefits of a work permit

After obtaining the work permit for Poland, you have the following privileges:

• Work lawfully in Poland.
• Formalize your residency status in the country.
• Engage in the employment specified in the work permit.
• Enter into a work agreement with your employer.

The visa processing should typically require approximately 10 to 12 days. After arriving in Poland with a work permit, you are authorized to work legally in the country.

How can Think Europe Services assist you?

Think Europe Services offers a range of services to assist individuals in obtaining a work visa for Poland. Here is a breakdown of the services they provide:

1. Counseling: Think Europe Services offers free counseling services to guide individuals through the process of obtaining a Poland work visa. This includes providing information and advice on the steps involved.
2. Job Services: They assist individuals in finding job opportunities in Poland. This service can be valuable for those looking for employment in the country as it can help match job seekers with suitable positions.
3. Reviewing Requirements: Think Europe Services reviews all the requirements for obtaining a Poland work visa. This ensures that applicants have a clear understanding of what is needed and can prepare accordingly.
4. Application Process: They assist applicants in completing the application process for the Poland work visa. This can involve filling out the necessary forms and ensuring that all documentation is in order.
5. Requirements Checklist: Think Europe Services helps individuals compile all the necessary requirements for their Poland work visa application. This can include documents such as certificates, letters of employment, and identification.

Living Expenses in Poland

The cost of living in Poland can fluctuate based on the city you're in and your personal lifestyle preferences. Here's a broad overview of typical daily expenditures in Poland:

Are you interested in pursuing employment opportunities in Poland? Reach out to Think Europe Services for expert guidance.

Don’t know what to do? Get free expert Guidance! Contact Us Today.

Warehouse Job

Welder Job

Electrician Job

Food Delivery Job

Bricklayer Job

Fitter Job

Plumber Job

Meat Processing Worker Job

Chef Jobs

Heavy Truck Driver Job