How can foreigners find a job in Poland in 2023?

Question about employment opportunities for foreigners in Poland

The question of the possibility of employment for foreigners in Poland and the necessary documents for this is becoming increasingly relevant. How to find a job, which professions are currently in demand, and what is the average salary in this country? We will try to answer all these topics in our detailed guide.

Important sections:

• The number of foreign workers in Poland in 2023
• Conditions for employment of foreigners
• Visas and work permits
• Mandatory health insurance
• Tax identification number (PESEL)
• The most promising cities for job searching in Poland
• Popular vacancies among foreign nationals
• The average salary in the country
• High-paying professions
• Ways for foreigners to find jobs in Poland
• Frequently Asked Questions about Employment

So how many foreign nationals are living in Poland this year?

According to the Polish Ministry of the Interior, as of June 30, 2023, there were approximately2.4 millionforeigners. This amounted to approximately6%from the total number of residents. The most immigrants arrived fromUkraine (1.4 million), among the migrants are citizensBelarusabout100 thousand),Germany (80 thousand),Vietnam (70,000) andNepal (60 thousandAt the same time, among the significant groups of foreigners in Poland, one can highlight people fromPhilippines,India,Russia,ChinaandUzbekistan.

It is important to understand that the data presented is far from complete, as some migrants may be in the country without the necessary documents or on short-term work visas. However, this statistics provides a general idea of the diversity of foreign nationals on Polish soil.

To be eligible for employment in Poland, foreigners must meet a number of conditions:

• It is essential to have a valid visa or residence permit.
• Obtain official permission for employment, including permits for seasonal workers.
• Ensure that health insurance is in place.
• Request an individual tax identification number (PESEL).

The process of obtaining visas and work permits

Now let's take a closer look at the process of obtaining visas and work permits. Citizens of countries that are not part ofEuropean Union,European Economic AreaorSwitzerlandFirst of all, you need to obtain a visa to enter Poland for work purposes. The type of visa will depend on your nationality and the specific purpose of your stay.

To obtain a work visa, foreigners must have a job offer from a Polish employer. It is the employer who is responsible for preparing all the documents to be submitted to the voivodeship office in order to obtain the necessary work permit for the employee. The document package includes:

• The application for a work permit has been filled out correctly.
• A copy of the passport of the foreign citizen.
• A properly formatted resume.
• Copy of the job offer letter.
• Proof of the employer's financial stability.

Thus, the processing of a work permit in Poland is organized quite strictly, and compliance with all procedures is mandatory for those who want to work legally. Each stage requires attention and clear compliance with all requirements, which will help to avoid possible legal complications. Now, with this valuable information in your arsenal, you can safely enter the Polish labor market, confidently moving towards your goal.

Introduction

Proof of compliance with Polish labor legislation by employers is a critically important aspect. The application process and its review for obtaining a work permit can take up to two months. This permit is issued for a period of up to three years and can be extended if necessary. In the case of temporary work, the permit can be issued for a period of up to nine months within one calendar year.

Who is exempt from obtaining a work permit?

It is worth noting that certain categories of citizens do not need to obtain a work permit in Poland. These include:

• Holders of the Polish Card
• Refugees
• Persons granted political asylum
• Citizens with permanent residency in Poland
• Holders of passports from European Union and European Economic Area countries
• Students and interns
• Professional artists
• Scientists and researchers
• Journalists
• Athletes
• Religious figures
• Military personnel
• Foreign spouses of Polish citizens

Obtaining a work visa

When a foreigner receives a work permit, they must contact the Polish consulate or embassy in their country to apply for a work visa.

Medical insurance

In addition, all foreign citizens who work or reside in Poland are required to have health insurance. Insurance can be arranged through:

• private insurance companies
• joining the Polish National Health Fund (NFZ)

To become a member of the NFZ, a foreigner must have a valid work permit and pay contributions to the social fund. NFZ members are entitled to free or partially paid medical care in the country.

Taxpayer Identification Number

An important step is obtaining a taxpayer identification number, known as PESEL. This number is required for all foreigners working and residing in Poland. To obtain it, one must submit an application and provide a copy of their passport to the local authorities.

Poland, including cities like Wrocław, boasts a high standard of living and affordable housing prices. Despite the immense popularity of Kraków as a tourist destination, the city also provides a favorable environment for professional activities. In recent years, there has been a rapid growth in employment opportunities here, particularly in fields such as information technology and various services. Kraków is also known as an important cultural and educational center, which further enhances its appeal.

The economic potential of Poland

The city of Poznan is an actively developing metropolis with a strong economy. It is becoming an important hub for business, manufacturing and logistics. Poznan confidently attracts students and young professionals seeking to develop their careers in a modern environment. As a port city, Gdansk has a rich history and plays a central role in trade, shipping and logistics services. Gdansk is not only interesting for tourists, but also shows growth in information technology.

Other cities with job opportunities

Among other Polish cities where good job opportunities can be found, the following should be highlighted:

• Katowice:This city has become a major industrial center that has gradually transformed into a modern business and cultural hub.
• Lodz:Once a major textile center, it now holds important positions in business, information technology, and education.
• Lublin:A historic place with a growing economy and an active labor market, located in the eastern part of the country.
• Szczecin:A port city in northwestern Poland, where there is also growth in the IT sector and international corporations are located.

In-demand professions in Poland

Now let's take a look at the five most popular cities in Poland, along with their advantages and disadvantages, based on the experiences of people who have already moved there. In 2023, the most in-demand professions for foreigners in Poland became:

• programmers
• data processors
• IT specialists
• accountants
• financial analysts
• customer service staff
• trade agents
• marketers
• project managers
• teachers
• nurses
• doctors

Skilled trades

Among the working specialties in demand:

• welders
• electricians
• builders
• truck drivers
• warehouse workers
• CNC machine operators

It is worth mentioning that for certain professions, such as teachers, nurses, and doctors, knowledge of the Polish language is required. However, there are many job vacancies that can be filled without language skills, especially in professions related to welding, electricity, construction, and transportation.

The rise in housing prices and income levels

The real estate market in Poland is experiencing a noticeable increase in prices: the cost of housing has doubled over the last decade. This fact reveals current trends and analytical data on the state of the real estate market in the country.

When it comes to salaries, the average income varies depending on the region, industry, and specific profession. This approach to studying the labor market can help foreigners in their desire to adapt more easily and plan their professional path in Poland more effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion of our comprehensive guide on the work of foreigners in Poland, I want to emphasize that the country offers vast opportunities for those who are eager to work and grow in a new cultural environment. The pandemic and changes in the labor market have created a unique situation that makes the Polish capital market particularly attractive. With the number of foreigners reaching 2.4 million, it can be said that Poland is becoming a multinational hub where everyone can find their place.

In addition to understanding the requirements for visas and licenses, it is important to realize that success in job searching also depends on the choice of a specific city. Warsaw, Wrocław, and some other major cities offer the highest number of job vacancies with competitive salaries. The average salary in the country, which continues to grow, will attract even more people from abroad, highlighting the importance of searching for current job openings and proper preparation for placement in the Polish labor market.

I strongly recommend all foreigners planning to work in Poland to pay attention to all the steps mentioned:

• obtaining permits;
• arranging insurance;
• obtaining a tax identification number.

These steps will not only ease your adaptation process but also open doors to many professional opportunities. Ultimately, Poland is not just a country to come to for work, but a place where you can build a career, learn, make friends, and grow as a person.

Now that you have the necessary knowledge and information, don't be afraid to test your abilities. Poland is ready to welcome you with open doors, offering vast opportunities for personal and career growth.Good luck with your endeavors!