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Poland Immigration & Employment Updates – Effective 2026



Overview: Poland is entering a pivotal phase of immigration, employment, and administrative reform in 2026. Changes will affect employers, foreign students studying in Poland, Ukrainian nationals, and all parties interacting with public authorities. Key updates focus on compliance, the gradual withdrawal of emergency measures, and the shift to digital communication with public institutions.

Key Changes

Employing Foreign Students in Poland From 2026, not all foreign students are automatically exempt from work permits. Only students enrolled in universities approved by the Ministry of the Interior and Administration or in institutions not requiring approval qualify.

Employers must verify the student’s university and legal basis for employment. Transitional rules allow previously legal employment without a permit to continue until 30 June 2026, with a maximum of six months from 1 December.

Phase-Out of the Ukrainian Special Act A draft act published on 29 December begins phasing out the Ukrainian Special Act. This affects hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian nationals working and residing in Poland.

Employers should review employees’ legal status and update internal procedures. Foreign nationals should prepare for new residence and work authorisation requirements, with some changes coming as early as 4 March.

Mandatory e-Doręczenia for Public Institutions From 1 January 2026, all public institutions, including immigration offices, must use

e-Doręczenia for official correspondence. This may significantly change how individuals and employers will interact with the immigration offices.

Implementation varies between offices. Some are fully operational, while others are still at an early stage, and online interactions may not yet be possible everywhere.

Important Notes These updates underline Poland’s move to a digital, compliance-driven framework. To stay ahead, employers and foreign nationals should:

  • Review workforce legal bases and permit validity dates,

  • Verify eligibility of foreign students studying in Poland before employment,

  • Prepare for the transition to e-Doręczenia as the default communication channel.

Proactive preparation is key to avoiding administrative or operational disruptions in 2026.

At Move One, we remain dedicated to supporting our clients with market insight, expert guidance, and seamless immigration and relocation solutions throughout this period of change.

Need guidance? Engage with Move One for assistance. Email: relo@moveoneinc.com ǀ Immigration and relocation support across Poland

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