Tuesday, 4 November 2025
The Polish government is preparing to raise the cost of work permits and related documentation for foreign employees for the first time in almost twenty years. The change, now under public consultation, is intended to bring administrative charges in line with current economic conditions and to limit misuse of the system.
The draft regulation, prepared by the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy in cooperation with the Ministry of Interior and Administration, outlines significantly higher fees for the issuance of permits and the registration of work statements. The adjustment follows a long period in which rates have remained largely unchanged despite rising administrative expenses and growing numbers of foreign workers.
Authorities argue that the increase should make it more difficult for unlicensed intermediaries to exploit the system by registering large volumes of fictitious job offers and selling documents to migrants. According to officials, a higher entry cost could discourage such practices and improve oversight of legal employment.
Employers, however, have raised concerns about the financial implications. Representatives of small and medium-sized firms say the new fees could add to existing cost pressures, especially in industries that rely heavily on migrant labour such as logistics, construction, manufacturing and hospitality.
Labour-market specialists suggest that while the direction of reform is reasonable, the success of the policy will depend on how it is implemented. Without stronger inspection and enforcement, the higher costs could ultimately be passed on to foreign workers themselves, rather than to companies or agencies responsible for recruitment.
Experts have also urged the government to consult with business groups and phase in the increases gradually to avoid disrupting sectors facing chronic labour shortages. The proposal is expected to be finalised and introduced in early 2026 following further review.
