Are Labour Market Tests Still Needed in Poland?
In recent years, Poland has emerged as a leading destination for foreign professionals, students, and skilled workers from both the European Union (EU) and third countries. However, navigating Poland's work permit system has often been a challenge, especially due to the requirement for a "labour market test"—a bureaucratic step that slowed down the hiring process. But significant changes have come into effect in 2025 that have reshaped this system entirely.
This post explains whether labour market tests are still required, what has changed, and how these updates affect foreign job seekers and employers alike.
What Is a Labour Market Test?
A labour market test (informally known as "test rynku pracy" in Polish) was a step required before hiring a non-EU foreigner in Poland. It obligated employers to check with local job offices to confirm whether a suitable Polish or EU candidate was available for a position before offering it to a third-country national.
This process included:
- Posting the job vacancy with a district labour office.
- Waiting up to 14–21 days for responses.
- Obtaining a confirmation letter stating that no local worker was found.
While meant to protect the domestic labor market, it added time, paperwork, and frustration for employers and applicants alike.
The 2025 Reform: Abolition of the Labour Market Test
As of January 2025, Poland officially abolished the labour market test requirement for most work permit applications. This reform was implemented under new immigration and labor policy updates aiming to modernize Poland's workforce and streamline the hiring of foreign professionals.
Why Was It Removed?
Several reasons contributed to the decision:
- Labour shortages in key sectors such as construction, healthcare, IT, agriculture, and logistics.
- A growing reliance on third-country nationals (especially from Ukraine, India, Nepal, and the Philippines).
- The inefficiency and redundancy of the previous system.
- The need to align with modern EU practices, as several countries have already dropped similar rules.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes. Although the general requirement has been abolished, exceptions still apply in some regions and occupations.
- Regional labor offices may still impose limitations on specific jobs if they are oversaturated.
- Some low-skilled or seasonal roles might still face local restrictions.
- Employers may be asked to justify foreign hires in regulated professions.
In practice, however, these exceptions are rare and limited in scope.
Impact on Foreign Workers
Positive Developments
- Faster hiring process: Work permits can now be issued more quickly without waiting for local labor office confirmations.
- Fewer documents required: Simplifies the application process.
- More accessible to newcomers: Workers without Polish language skills or EU connections face fewer entry barriers.
Things to Keep in Mind
- You still need a valid job offer and contract from a Polish employer to apply for a work permit.
- Work permits are still issued for specific jobs, employers, and locations.
- Legal stay and work require compliance with visa, residence, and insurance rules.
Impact on Employers
Employers now benefit from:
- Shorter recruitment timelines
- Lower administrative burden
- Increased flexibility in hiring foreign nationals, especially for mid- and high-skilled roles
They are, however, expected to ensure all employment conditions are compliant with Polish labor law and that foreign employees receive proper documentation (contracts, ZUS registration, health insurance, etc.).
Conclusion
The abolition of the labour market test in 2025 marks a major shift in Poland’s immigration and labor policy. It’s a welcome change for employers and international job seekers alike, helping Poland remain competitive in the European job market.
If you're planning to work in Poland, this reform significantly simplifies the process—but it’s still important to stay informed about legal requirements, contract terms, and any sector-specific rules that may still apply.
