Changing jobs in Poland may leave you without income for several weeks

A higher salary or more convenient hours can make a new job attractive, but moving to another employer in Poland sometimes means several weeks without earnings. In addition to travel expenses, there are housing, food, and the wait for the first paycheck. This is discussed by InPoland. Therefore, before changing jobs, it is worth evaluating not only the salary but also the full working conditions in Poland.

Why there may be a gap between two jobs in Poland

Even if the job ad states that a worker is needed urgently, the first shift may not start immediately. You need to undergo a medical examination, complete paperwork, wait for training, or the formation of a work shift. The start date may also be postponed due to production circumstances.

Therefore, it is advisable to clarify two dates in advance: when you need to arrive and when the first paid shift will start. It is recommended to have agreements about the salary, schedule, and housing in writing.

The budget for the transition includes not just tickets. You may need money for local transportation, food, housing deposits, work clothes, and living expenses until the first paycheck. If the new salary is only slightly higher, a few weeks without income can negate that difference. That’s why it’s important to compare the promised earnings with actual expenses: in certain cities, salaries and the cost of living in Poland can vary significantly.

If you are interested in working in Poland, we suggest exploring 350,000 job vacancies on the Layboard portal.

What to check before quitting

If housing is provided by the employer, after quitting, the employee may be asked to leave quickly. And settling into a new place may only be possible on a specific date. Find out in advance when you need to vacate the room, whether a deposit is required, how many people will be living together, and how transportation to work is organized.

The first paycheck may not arrive immediately: in many companies, wages are paid the following month for the period already worked. Before transitioning, clarify the payment date, how long it will take to process the payment, and whether an advance is provided.

A higher salary does not always mean a greater actual income. Consider guaranteed hours, housing and transportation costs, night shift bonuses, and potential deductions. The terms of the contract and all deductions should be checked in advance, as risks of working in Poland may manifest after being hired.