Working in Poland

If you’re considering working in Poland, you may find that salaries won’t offer you the same purchasing power as Western Europe, with Polish purchasing power still around 30 percent below the European average.

In Poland, most jobs require a five-day work week with working hours generally from 8am to 4pm, although international companies often uphold a 9am to 5pm day. The unemployment rate in Poland has dropped significantly to about 5 percent, making job prospects considerably brighter than a decade ago. Polish employers are increasingly trying out flexible working arrangements, with four-day work weeks and hybrid options gaining traction across sectors.

Job market in Poland

The job market in Poland features primary industries like automotive manufacturing, food processing, banking and construction. However, expats will most likely find opportunities in fast-growing sectors, including IT, finance, human relations, business services and management.

As most of the population speaks Polish, there is a significant shortage of native English speakers. Many private international schools and kindergartens actively seek native English teachers, with these positions often offering competitive salaries. English teachers in Poland with proper qualifications can earn more than entry-level corporate positions.

Foreign investment continues flowing into Poland, with energy and industrial sectors receiving significant capital. Manufacturing, e-commerce, food production, and logistics sectors are actively recruiting international workers.

That being said, working in Poland as a foreigner isn’t always straightforward. There are significant bureaucratic challenges, with immigration processes taking months to complete. Language barriers top the list of challenges for expats looking for jobs.

Finding a job in Poland

Finding a job in Poland requires different approaches depending on your nationality. Citizens of the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA) do not need a work permit to be legally employed in Poland. Non-EU citizens must obtain a work visa, which typically requires a job offer from a Polish employer.

If you haven’t been headhunted for a specific position, job portals remain the most effective search method. The EURES network is particularly useful for foreigners, providing job placement services across EU/EFTA countries. Specialised portals like Pracuj.pl, Jobs.pl and EnglishJobs.pl cater specifically for English-speaking professionals.

Processing times for work permits typically take 10 to 12 weeks, while visa processing averages 15 days but can extend to 30 days in some cases.

Visas and Residence Permits in Poland
Work Permits in Poland

Useful links

• Pracuj.pl
• Jobs.pl
• EnglishJobs.pl
• EURES (European Job Mobility Portal)
• Careers in Poland

Work culture in Poland

The work culture in Poland centres around hierarchy and formality, with pronounced differences from other European workplaces. Polish business environments tend to be more hierarchical, with a strong respect for senior positions and academic qualifications.

When it comes to meetings, punctuality matters. Polish business meetings typically start on time and finish at the stated time, and they feature straightforward communication and a focus on concrete, measurable outcomes.

For your work wardrobe, traditional Polish companies expect formal attire, especially for business meetings. A smart suit makes the right impression and shows you understand local professional etiquette. Men wear dark-coloured suits with jackets and ties, while women opt for suits with either trousers or knee-length skirts. International firms might be slightly more relaxed, but it’s always safer to dress formally until you learn the specific office culture.

Building trust with Polish colleagues requires time and social engagement. Polish workplaces celebrate significant holidays with special gatherings – Christmas and Easter are particularly significant, with many companies organising after-hours events featuring traditional dishes.

Business Culture in Poland