Hiring foreign workers is becoming increasingly common in response to the “demographic winter,” an aging population, and workforce deficits. More than half of companies, regardless of size, industry, or region, see this as a way to fill staffing shortages. One in three views it as a cost-saving measure, while one in four appreciates the fresh perspective and innovation brought by international teams. Meanwhile, the number of work permits for Filipinos increased by 60% in the first half of 2024, for Nepalese by 46%, and for Colombians by 337% compared to the first half of 2023, according to Gi Group’s report “Employing Foreigners in Poland: Challenges and Opportunities.”
The Growing Number of Foreign Workers in Poland
Less than a decade ago, Poland was primarily an emigration country. Today, it is increasingly chosen by foreigners for professional growth and better living conditions. According to ZUS data, as of September 2024, Ukrainians were the largest group of foreign workers (779,000). Their share in the workforce is experiencing a slight decline, while the total number of foreign workers continues to rise. Notably, the number of employees from Nepal, India, and the Philippines is rapidly growing. In the first half of 2024 alone, over 173,000 work permits were issued, with most going to workers from Asia and South America.
Marcos Segador Arrebola, Managing Director of Gi Group Holding in Poland:
“An aging population and a declining number of working-age individuals mean that, despite high employment activity, many sectors and regions face labor shortages. Addressing these deficits requires a systemic and multi-dimensional approach, including optimizing production and logistics processes, activating those outside the labor market, and seeking workers beyond the local market.”
Filling Workforce Gaps, Cost Optimization, and Fresh Perspectives
Faced with deepening labor shortages, more companies recognize the need to hire foreign workers. Demographic data leaves little doubt, driving employers to recruit internationally. The growing demand is evident from the increasing number of work permits, declarations, and notifications.
A study by SW Research for Gi Group reveals that 55.5% of companies view employing foreigners as a solution for filling workforce gaps. 30% see cost optimization as a key benefit, particularly in the transport, logistics, and industrial sectors. 26.5% value the fresh perspectives and innovation brought by international teams, especially in the service and industrial industries.
Agnieszka Zielińska, Director of the Polish HR Forum:
“Employing foreigners offers tangible benefits for companies – not only filling workforce gaps, but also introducing new perspectives and innovation. Workers from different cultures bring ideas that support organizational growth and help optimize business costs.”
Beyond Ukraine: New Trends in Foreign Employment
Over 1.17 million foreigners are employed in Poland, a sixfold increase since 2015. Ukrainians remain the largest group, although their share has declined by 7.8 percentage points since 2018. They still represent 66% of foreign workers registered in ZUS, a result of the influx following the war in Ukraine and simplified legalization procedures introduced in 2022.
The number of workers from Colombia, the Philippines, and Nepal has surged, reflecting a shift in the Polish labor market. Significant numbers also come from India, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan.
Industries Open to Foreign Workers
The highest demand for foreign workers is in manufacturing, followed by administrative services, transport, and warehousing. Other industries include construction, hospitality (HoReCa), and retail. Employers primarily seek manual laborers, production workers, warehouse staff, and machine operators.
Ukrainians are employed across various company sizes, sectors, and regions. Workers from the European Union are more often found in larger companies, particularly in services, public sectors, transport, and logistics. Companies needing specialized skills are more likely to hire EU workers. Employees from more distant regions typically work for large enterprises due to the complexity and cost of international recruitment.
Regional Distribution of Foreign Workers
Demand for foreign labor is highest in regions around major cities – particularly Warsaw – and industrial areas like Silesia, Pomerania, and Greater Poland.
Employers’ Recruitment Plans
Employer declarations for the coming year reflect current market conditions. 35% of companies remain undecided, while 30% do not plan to increase their foreign workforce. This cautious approach may stem from uncertainty over future regulations regarding foreign employment.
Challenges and Concerns
Legalizing foreign employment remains complex. 35% of companies cite bureaucratic challenges, while 24.5% point to unclear legal guidelines. Simplifying procedures could boost employer interest in international recruitment.
Maciej Pełka, Service Excellence Director at Gi Group:
“Lengthy and unpredictable visa and work permit processes deter employers, particularly when recruiting from Asia or South America.”
Cultural and language barriers also pose challenges. 41% of employers face communication issues, while 23.5% mention differing work standards. Integration difficulties and lack of adaptation support increase employee turnover risks.
Prof. Grażyna Spytek-Bandurska, Expert at the Federation of Polish Entrepreneurs:
“Employing foreigners involves challenges, and businesses value stability. Creating incentives for employers to integrate foreign workers is essential.”
Marcos Segador Arrebola:
“Hiring foreigners, especially from culturally distant countries, raises concerns among employers and society. Poland must adapt to its changing social structure with openness, empathy, and education, ensuring benefits for all.”
About the Report
The report “Employing Foreigners in Poland: Challenges and Opportunities” was prepared by Gi Group experts, featuring insights from companies employing foreigners and employer organizations. Data comes from SW Research’s CAWI and CATI surveys conducted in November 2024 with 200 medium and large enterprises across various industries.
