Poland updates work visa for skilled workers in 2025 to address labour gaps 

These changes affect work permit requirements, visa fees, and the demand for skilled workers in specific sectors.

These adjustments will also shape the way foreign professionals apply for visas, with an emphasis on formal employment contracts and increased visa fees.

While these updates may introduce challenges, they also create new opportunities for skilled workers in Poland’s expanding job market.

The DAAD Scholarship reports that these adjustments are designed to streamline the application process, promote fair employment practices, and ensure that Poland can meet the growing demand for workers in skill-shortage sectors.

A major change is the requirement for formal employment contracts for all foreign workers starting January 1st, 2025.

The draft law seeks to improve the monitoring of work permits and introduce penalties for non-compliance, enhancing the overall efficiency and security of the work visa system.

Despite these regulatory changes, reports inform that Poland remains an attractive destination for skilled professionals. The country’s stable economy, low unemployment rate, and rising demand for skilled workers create a positive environment for foreign workers in 2025.

The updated work visa regulations also offer a clearer pathway to permanent residency. Long-term visa options like the D-type visa and the EU Blue Card now provide faster routes to permanent residency, reflecting Poland’s commitment to retaining skilled foreign workers.

According to reports, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals in several sectors. The following professions are expected to experience the most significant demand in 2025:

Foreign workers with expertise in these areas will find ample opportunities in Poland’s job market.

Poland offers several work visa options, depending on the type of employment and duration of stay. These include:

In 2025, the fees for work visas in Poland will see an increase across several visa types. The fee changes are intended to better reflect the costs of the immigration process and align them with the country’s minimum wage.

In addition to the primary fees, there are additional costs for dependents, with the fee for children aged 6-12 set at a reduced rate, while those under 6 will be exempt from fees.

To apply for a work visa in Poland, foreign workers should follow these steps:

Employer’s role in the visa process 

Employer’s role in the visa process 

Employers play a critical role in the work visa process. They are responsible for offering formal employment contracts, applying for work permits on behalf of employees, and ensuring compliance with Poland’s updated visa and work regulations.

Reports inform that employers must adhere to stricter compliance rules to avoid delays or rejections in visa processing.