Payroll & Employment Guide Poland flag

Payroll & Employment Guide Poland

Poland is a rapidly growing talent hub in Central Europe, known for its skilled workforce, robust education system, and competitive labour costs. With a strong IT and services sector, excellent English proficiency, and EU membership, Poland is a great destination for companies looking to expand or hire remotely.

Payroll & Employment Guide Poland
CurrencyPolish Zloty (PLN)
LanguagesPolish
Minimum wagePLN 4,666/month
Employment cost20-25%
Working hours40 hours per week
VAT23%
Probation periodUp to 3 months
Paid leave days20 days per year
Categories

Hiring guide

Situated in the heart of Europe, Poland offers access to a large pool of highly qualified workers, particularly in fields like IT, engineering, and finance. With its EU membership, stable economy, and attractive wage structure, Poland is a popular choice for employers looking to expand across Europe.

Get details on Poland’s employment laws, tax obligations, and cost structures in our complete hiring guide before expanding.

Learn more

Employment contracts

Employment contracts in Poland must be in writing and signed before the employee begins work. Contracts can be indefinite, fixed-term, or for probation, and they must clearly outline key terms, including salary, job duties, and working conditions.

Notice periods: Up to 3 months

Termination of employment: Can occur through mutual agreement, resignation, dismissal for cause, or redundancy. Certain legal procedures must be followed to terminate employment lawfully.

Want to learn more about employment contracts in Poland? Get our full template now!

Employee benefits

Employees in Poland are entitled to a range of benefits, both mandatory and optional. These benefits are essential for attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive market.


Mandatory benefits: Social security contributions (covering retirement, disability, and health insurance), paid vacation leave, etc.
Common perks: Private health insurance, life insurance, multisport or fitness benefits, meal vouchers, flexible working hours, professional development, company events, etc.

Leave policies: Annual leave, sick leave, maternity leave, paternity leave, parental leave, and unpaid leave.

Want to learn more about all the employee benefits available in Poland?

Taxes

Employers in Poland are responsible for withholding income taxes and paying social contributions to the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS). Employees are taxed progressively, and social contributions are split between the employer and the employee.

  • Personal Income Tax (PIT): In Poland, Personal Income Tax (PIT) is structured as a progressive system with two main tax brackets: 12% for annual income up to PLN 120,000 and 32% for income exceeding that amount. There is also a tax-free allowance of PLN 30,000 annually. Several PIT forms are used depending on the source of income. PIT-37 is the most common for income from employment and pensions, PIT-36 is used by self-employed individuals and those with non-agricultural business income, and PIT-28 applies to those using flat-rate taxation on business activities. The PIT filing deadline is April 30 of the following year.
  • Corporate Income Tax (CIT): Standard rate of 19%, with a reduced rate of 9% for small businesses.
  • Value Added Tax (VAT): Standard rate of 23%, with reduced rates of 8% and 5% for certain goods and services.
  • Social security contributions: Paid by both employers and employees, covering pensions, health, and other insurances.
  • Withholding tax: Applied to dividends, interest, and royalties, typically at 19%, but may be reduced under Double Tax Treaties.

Want to find out more about Poland’s tax allowances and similar tax regulations? Click here to read more now!

Payroll

Poland has clear rules around payroll processing, frequency of salary payments, and reporting obligations. Employers must pay employees at least once per month on a fixed date and ensure timely tax and social contribution payments.

Salary payment deadline: At least once per month, date agreed in contract

Taxes and contributions payment deadline: By the 15th of the following month

Payroll declarations deadline:

  • PIT-4R: by the 20th of the following month
  • ZUS DRA & ZUS RCA: by the 10th of the following month

Payroll currency: PLN

Work permits & visas

Poland allows citizens from EU/EEA countries to work freely. For non-EU citizens, work permits and/or residence permits are typically required. The process can vary depending on the applicant’s nationality, job type, and contract duration.

Types of permits: EU blue card, and work permit type A

Process length: 4-10 months

Process cost: Starts at* 1450 EUR

*Please note that additional costs may apply after reviewing individual use cases.

Want to learn more about obtaining visas and work permits in Poland? Get our full country handbook now, or click here to find out more!

EOR services

Using EOR services in Poland allows you to legally employ individuals in the country without opening legal entities there. The EOR takes over all the legal responsibilities as an official employer, including:

  • Legal employment and contracts
  • Payroll processing
  • Tax withholding
  • Benefits administration
  • Onboarding/offboarding employees

PEO services

Using PEO services in Poland provides HR and administrative support, while you remain the legal employer. PEO services are ideal for employers who already have legal entities in Poland but need support to manage their workforce operations, including:

  • HR support and workforce administration
  • Payroll and benefits management
  • Compliance and local labour law guidance
  • Employment contracts assistance

Payroll calculator

Native Teams provides a payroll calculator adjusted per Poland’s labour laws. Estimate gross-to-net salaries, tax withholdings, and employer costs in Poland with our localised calculator. Designed to meet all payroll and compliance requirements.

Note: The information provided above is for general guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for legal advice. We strongly recommend consulting with qualified professionals who specialise in local labour laws before making any hiring decisions. While the data was accurate at the time of writing, labour regulations are subject to change, and it is your responsibility to stay informed about the latest developments.

Last update: August 8, 2025

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Frequently asked questions

Freelancers and gig workers in Poland are generally considered self-employed and are responsible for managing their own taxes and social security contributions. As a client, you are not required to make contributions on their behalf. 

However, to avoid potential misclassification, it’s important that the working arrangement does not resemble an employer-employee relationship. Always ensure that you have a clearly defined contract that outlines the scope of work, deliverables, payment terms, and other key conditions.