Poland’s labor market is entering a transitional phase—numbers of workers from Asia are declining, hiring procedures are becoming more complex, and employers are now heavily reliant on Ukrainian nationals. Recruitment experts warn that if companies fail to plan staffing needs in advance, the near future may bring serious labor shortages.
According to the Gremi Personal Analytical Center, Ukrainians currently account for 75–80% of all foreign workers employed in Poland. Among Asians still present in the market, the largest groups come from Nepal, India, and Bangladesh. Very few Filipinos are employed, as their recruitment is complicated and time-consuming. Colombians are still being hired, but if new rules restricting entry on biometric passports take effect, their numbers are also expected to decline. Meanwhile, workers from Kazakhstan and African countries (including Nigeria) make up around 10% of the foreign workforce.
The average age of foreign workers in Poland ranges from 35 to 47 years. Ukrainian workers are predominantly women, while 70% of Asians are men. Job offers for women are limited but quickly filled.
Most foreign workers are employed in logistics, e-commerce, warehousing, and food processing. There is also growing demand for skilled specialists such as welders and machine operators certified by the Office of Technical Inspection (UDT). However, Polish-language testing remains a significant barrier for many Asian candidates.
Average employment periods range from 6 to 20 months, though many migrants stay in Poland for one to three years. Contracts are usually signed for 12 months and are often extended, helping reduce turnover. Nevertheless, attrition remains at 20–30%, especially among men, who have wider job opportunities.
Recruitment agencies report increasing challenges, such as employers placing large last-minute orders for dozens of workers—difficult to fulfill without compromising quality. Long visa procedures for non-European workers further complicate hiring. Experts warn that if restrictions on Asian migration continue, Poland will face major labor shortages, particularly in industry and logistics.
“First, the market is effectively closed to many Asian workers—new arrivals are nearly nonexistent. Second, employing those already in Poland is becoming increasingly difficult, and employers are gradually giving up on this group. As a result, the number of Asians in the labor market will steadily decline in the coming months. Some who arrived earlier may remain, but their situation is also uncertain as authorities more frequently deny permits, forcing them to return home. Poland is not a country migrants come to for welfare benefits—they come to work. But if procedures keep hindering their employment, serious labor shortages will be inevitable,” comments Anna Dzhobolda, Director of International Recruitment at Gremi Personal.
Source: CEO.com.pl
