Preliminary data from the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy indicate that in the first four months of 2025, Poland issued 103,200 work permits to foreigners. The largest number of permits went to Colombians, followed by citizens of the Philippines, India, Nepal, and Uzbekistan. At the same time, only about 1,200 permits were issued to workers from Ukraine.
From January to April this year, 103,200 work permits were granted to foreign nationals, according to the Ministry’s preliminary figures. This is 12.5% less than in the same period last year, when 117,900 permits were issued. Michał Wysłocki, Manager in the Immigration Team at EY Poland and expert at the Association of Business Service Leaders (ABSL), attributes the decline partly to the tightening of conditions for obtaining work permits and visas. Authorities now conduct more detailed checks on employers, for example verifying the actual operation of their businesses.
“Additionally, employment of Ukrainian citizens continues to dominate, as they can legally work without a permit under special regulations. Also, more difficult access for foreigners to Polish visas means they less often need to obtain work permits required for visa processing. It is also more common that foreigners already residing in Poland legalize their stay and work by obtaining temporary residence permits rather than work permits,” explains Wysłocki.
Piotr Rogowiecki, Director of Analysis and Legislation at the Employers of Poland organization, stresses that the decrease in issued permits does not reflect a lack of demand for workers. The labour market’s needs remain very large. Wioletta Żukowska-Czaplicka, socio-economic expert, notes that employers are feeling the impact of fewer foreigners in the workforce.
“Employers need workers now. According to the Migration Strategy, Poland is supposed to welcome mainly foreigners with specific skills for shortage occupations. However, employers need workers not only in specialized jobs but also for simpler tasks in construction or as drivers. Not all professions on the shortage list require highly specialized or unique skills; some are physical jobs that Poles increasingly refuse to do. This is where the biggest problem lies,” she says.
Colombians Lead in Work Permits Issued
In the first four months, Colombians received the most work permits—about 15,400. Michał Wysłocki believes this popularity is because Colombians benefit from visa-free travel, which facilitates their recruitment.
“Although in August 2024 the Polish government blocked visa-free entry for Colombians intending to work, if they enter Poland for tourism, they can still be legally employed via a work permit,” he adds.
Piotr Rogowiecki points out that Colombia faces significant poverty and unemployment. For Colombians, Poland is a cheaper place to live than Western Europe. Colombian workers quickly adapt to Polish market requirements, demonstrate strong work ethics, engagement, and often have good English skills.
“These workers are willing to take jobs considered shortage occupations according to the ‘Occupational Barometer. 2025 Forecast,’ including bricklayers, plasterers, warehouse workers, vehicle mechanics, installation fitters, earthworks equipment operators, and welders. These are jobs Polish workers are reluctant to do,” Rogowiecki notes.
Other Top Nationalities
Following Colombians are citizens of the Philippines (12,500 permits), India (10,600), Nepal (7,600), and Uzbekistan (7,200). The top ten also include workers from Indonesia (6,100), Zimbabwe (4,200), Bangladesh (3,900), Kazakhstan (3,800), and Turkmenistan (3,500). Żukowska-Czaplicka notes that for years these countries’ citizens have been the largest recipients of Polish work permits. She adds that for many Asian workers, Poland is not a transit point but a destination.
“Economic factors and a sense of security are decisive. Poland is considered very safe. Statistics also show that such workers want to stay longer, not just earn money and leave. For example, Indians generally speak English well and have qualifications valuable in sectors like IT and industry. Employers also appreciate their loyalty and diligence,” the expert says.
Work Permits for Ukrainians
Only about 1,200 work permits were issued to Ukrainians during this period. Michał Wysłocki recalls that since the outbreak of war in Ukraine, special Polish regulations allow any legally staying Ukrainian citizen to work without a permit, provided the employer notifies the employment office within seven days of hiring. In practice, work permits have been replaced by notifications.
“However, this has limits, and the number of Ukrainians potentially migrating to Poland is reaching saturation. Additionally, Poland is increasingly seen as a transit country, with many Ukrainians choosing to live and work in Western Europe. It should be remembered that labour shortages affect most EU countries. Ukrainians, culturally similar to Europeans, are attractive potential workers and neighbors,” concludes Rogowiecki.
Source: ManagerPlus.pl
