New Regulations for Foreigners Effective from 1 June 2025
Recent legislative changes have introduced new rules affecting foreign nationals residing and working in Poland. These laws, passed by parliament, will take effect on 1 June 2025, with some exceptions for specific provisions.
Key Changes in the Legislation
Reforms to Student Visa and Residence Rules
Amendments to Certain Acts (Official Gazette, item 622)
The updated law introduces stricter requirements for student visas and temporary residence permits for education purposes. Prospective international students must now:
- Provide proof of education recognized by the National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA).
- Demonstrate at least a B2 level proficiency in the language of instruction.
- Pass entrance examinations or interviews.
Additionally, universities cannot enroll foreign students exceeding 50% of their total student body. Institutions surpassing this limit must halt foreign admissions until compliance is restored.
Current exemptions allowing students to work without a separate permit remain unchanged.
The law also restricts foreigners from switching their visa purpose, particularly targeting those using Schengen visas from other countries to enter Poland’s labor market.
Stricter Rules for Employment Agencies
Labor Market and Employment Services Act (Official Gazette, item 620)
New employment agencies must now wait two years before offering services related to foreign worker recruitment. This measure aims to prevent agencies formed solely for quick access to foreign labor.
Tighter Work Permit Controls
Act on Foreign Employment Conditions (Official Gazette, item 621)
To combat work permit fraud, the law enhances IT system coordination and increases oversight by employment services. Local authorities can now ban work permits for specific professions in districts affected by mass layoffs or economic downturns, replacing the previous labor market test.
Penalties for illegally employing foreigners have also increased, with fines ranging from PLN 3,000 to PLN 50,000, depending on the number of workers involved.
Updates to the EU Blue Card System
Amendments to the Foreigners Act (Official Gazette, item 619)
The revisions align Polish law with EU Directive 2021/1883, modifying rules for highly skilled foreign workers under the EU Blue Card system.