The Polish labour market is developing at lightning speed, and migration rules have to keep pace with these changes. Anyone planning to come to Poland or already working here is surely wondering which new rules apply this year. 2026 has brought a number of important legal updates that affect the hiring process, legalisation of stay and the everyday life of migrants. That is why we have prepared a detailed overview of the key changes for different groups of foreigners.
Ukrainian citizens: digitalisation and stable employment
First of all, in 2026 the Polish government is placing even more emphasis on digital documents for Ukrainian citizens. The mObywatel app (including the Diia.pl profile) has become the absolute basis for confirming identity and legal stay. What is more, the rules for employment based on the so-called “notification” (Powiadomienie o powierzeniu wykonywania pracy) have been streamlined, which means employers can register new workers with ZUS faster. As a result, Ukrainians can count on an even smoother move between employers, as long as they work with legal agencies such as Alimat Group.
International students: an easier path to a career
Young people who come to Poland to study are still in a particularly privileged position. As you know, they benefit from the “gross = net” status (zero PIT and exemption from ZUS contributions for people under 26). In 2026 universities and post-secondary schools are working even more closely with the Voivodeship Offices (Urząd Wojewódzki). Thanks to this, obtaining a first residence card (Karta Pobytu) on the basis of studies is more transparent. Students can easily combine full-time work with education, and employment agencies are very keen to hire them on civil-law contracts.
New directions: Colombia, Venezuela and Georgia
A noticeable trend in 2026 is the huge increase in the number of workers from South America and the Caucasus.
- Colombia and Venezuela: because of staff shortages in Polish industry and logistics, citizens of these countries are increasingly receiving work permits (Type A). In addition, consular procedures in these countries are gradually being digitalised, which shortens the wait for a work visa.
- Georgia: Georgians can still use the simplified employment procedure based on declarations (Oświadczenie, for up to 24 months). However, in 2026 the Border Guard introduced more thorough checks of the purpose of entry. That is why it is so important for Georgians to have genuine documents from a reliable employer before they cross the border.
The rise in the minimum wage and your earnings
It is also worth noting that 2026 brought another update of the national minimum wage. Naturally, this directly affects hourly rates for all foreigners. When you work legally, you are guaranteed that your pay will not be lower than the statutory minimum, and thanks to allowances (for example for weekend or night work) your real earnings are well above the base amount.
Legal work in 2026 — only with Alimat Group
Legal changes may seem complicated, but with the right partner you do not have to worry about them. At Alimat Group we follow all updates to laws and regulations as they happen. As a result, our workers — whether they come from Ukraine, Georgia or Colombia — always work 100% legally. We have our own legalisation department, which handles declarations and permits free of charge and helps with applications for a residence card.
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Planning your first trip to Poland or want to switch to a better agency? Then be sure to read the other articles on our site. For example, we have prepared detailed guides on how to spot dishonest middlemen and what renting a flat in a big city really costs. Gain knowledge and work safely! Click here to go to the knowledge base on our blog to find answers to all your questions and start a new, stable career with Alimat Group!
