Poland Eases Employment for Ukrainians: New Laws
Poland is implementing significant changes in the labor market for foreigners aimed at simplifying the employment process. From now on, local authorities will have the right to impose restrictions on foreigners’ access to certain professions in cases of vacancy shortages.
This is reported by AgroReview
President of Poland Andrzej Duda has signed two laws that will significantly affect employment conditions for both Polish citizens and foreigners, including Ukrainians. The first law aims to combat abuses in the labor market and ensure full digitization of the process from application submission to obtaining a work permit.
In particular, the so-called labor market test has been abolished, which previously required employers to check for unemployed Poles before hiring foreigners. This procedure has been deemed unnecessary. Instead, county starosts will have the ability to create lists of professions for which foreigners will not be hired or will only be considered as a last resort.
“This system has been deemed ineffective.”
Restrictions will only be introduced under critical conditions in the local labor market, according to the decision of the county council. The new law also strengthens penalties for illegal employment: fines can range from 3,000 to 50,000 zlotys for each unregistered worker, and employer inspections will be conducted without prior notice.
The second law pertains to the modernization of the unemployment support system. In particular, individuals with more than 5 years of experience will receive unemployment benefits amounting to 100% of the basic salary. Additionally, the unemployed will no longer be tied to the employment center in their place of registration — it will be sufficient to have their actual place of residence.
Priority in receiving assistance will be given to large families and single parents. Compensation from the state is also provided for the care of children with disabilities up to 18 years old. The unemployed will be able to obtain special educational loans for training, and under certain conditions, 20% of the debt will be forgiven.
Furthermore, the legislation includes co-financing for employers who hire individuals aged 50 and over, with a subsidy of up to 50% of the minimum wage. Both laws will come into effect 14 days after their publication in Dziennik Ustaw.