Legal stay and work in Poland

Before you start work the employer must show you the contract translated into a language you understand. This is not a courtesy — it is required by law.

The terms in the contract must match those in the declaration or the permit. If the rate is lower than promised or the type of contract is different, do not sign and go to the labour office.

The employer must also inform you of your right to join a trade union.

Do not sign blank or unfilled forms, even if you are promised they will be completed later. And never hand your passport to anyone for safekeeping: an employer has no right to hold your document.

A legally employed foreigner has the same labour rights as a Polish citizen; they are set out in the Labour Code of 26 June 1974. This covers the minimum wage, leave, overtime pay and the rules for ending a contract.

With UKR status, healthcare is available on terms equivalent to those for Polish citizens.

Charging you a fee for getting a job is against the law. No intermediary, agency or “handler” may take money from a person looking for work.

Powiatowy Urząd Pracy, the district labour office, helps with job search and training free of charge.

Help with legalising your stay is provided under the “Wspólnie do Niezależności” programme run by the Ministry of the Interior, which also holds training sessions.

The gmina office advises on documents and registration of residence.