Poland increases fees for work permits: what will change for Ukrainians

Starting in December, administrative fees for obtaining work permits for foreign citizens, including Ukrainians, will increase in Poland. As reported by the Polish government website, this initiative will affect all foreigners working in Poland.

According to the decree of the Minister of Family, Labor and Social Policy dated November 20, the cost of work permits for foreigners will rise to zł400, which at the exchange rate of the National Bank of Ukraine equals 4600 UAH. Previously, such a permit cost zł100.

Updated fee tariffs in Poland:

• zł200 ($55) - when applying for a work permit for up to three months;
• zł400 ($109) - when obtaining a work permit for a period of more than three months;
• zł800 ($218.5) - in case of sending a foreign worker to Poland;
• zł100 ($27) - for seasonal work permits.

Changes in legislation and the life of Ukrainians in Poland

New rules do not apply to cases regarding the legalization of work if they were initiated before December 1, 2025, and are not yet completed. In November, the Senate of Poland adopted amendments to the law on applications for residence permits, which can now be submitted online. According to this law, starting in 2026, Ukrainians will be able to apply for a three-year residence permit - a CUKR card for those with temporary protection status (PESEL UKR).

It should be noted that the law concerning the conditions of stay for Ukrainian citizens in Poland, which provides for the possibility of changing status from temporary protection to temporary stay, is awaiting the president's signature. However, the heightened situation for Ukrainians in Poland is also marked by numerous cases of crime and hatred, complicating their integration into Polish society.

Currently, Ukrainians working in Poland are faced with increasing administrative fees for obtaining work permits. The new fee tariffs range from zł200 to zł800, depending on the duration of employment. Additionally, changes in legislation provide for the online submission of applications for residence permits. It is worth noting that while some provisions may ease the lives of Ukrainians in Poland, issues with crime and hatred remain relevant.