Working in Poland: Can you work with a Ukrainian labor book

Ukrainians who are legally residing in Poland can officially work without obtaining a special permit. This right is enshrined in the Law of March 12, 2022, "On Assistance to Citizens of Ukraine in Connection with the Armed Conflict". However, a Ukrainian labor book is not a document that confirms the right to employment in Poland. This is reported by the portal In Poland.

How Ukrainians Can Work Legally in Poland

Polish legislation requires that there be a Polish employment contract between the employee and the employer. This can be:

• umowa o pracę — a classic employment contract with social guarantees;

• umowa zlecenie — a contract of mandate, popular among seasonal workers;

• umowa o dzieło — a contract for the performance of a specific work or service.

After signing the contract, the employer is obliged to submit an electronic notification of the employment of a Ukrainian to the district labor office — no later than 14 days after the start of work.

If a person has temporary protection status or other legal grounds for residence, no additional work permit is required. At the same time, the employer is responsible for the correctness of the documentation and adherence to the minimum wage established by Polish law.

What to Do with a Ukrainian Labor Book

The Ukrainian labor book in Poland has no legal force for employment but can be useful to confirm experience, qualifications, or work history. Experts advise translating it into Polish and keeping a copy when signing the employment contract.

Also, before signing the contract, it is advisable to use the services of a translator or legal consultant to avoid misunderstandings regarding working conditions or payment.

Previously, we reported that Ukrainians residing in Poland will be checked for employment every month. This was announced by Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration of Poland Maciej Duszczyk.