Foreign workers - the hidden strength of the Polish economy
The number of legal foreign workers in Poland is growing every year. As of the end of March 2025, there were more than 1.2 million foreigners registered with ZUS. They are already employed by a third of Polish companies - mainly in the logistics, manufacturing, construction and TSL sectors. Without their support, many sectors would not be able to operate at full capacity.
What will you learn from this article?
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Why can't companies do without foreign workers?
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What are the latest demographic data and projections?
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In what industries are foreigners irreplaceable?
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How to legally employ foreigners in light of new regulations?
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Why is process outsourcing the key to corporate security today?
1. data don't lie: one in five companies wouldn't make it without foreigners
A survey conducted by the Polish Economic Institute in May 2025 found that 20% of companies admitted that the lack of foreigners would prevent them from continuing to operate.
Additionally:
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32% of companies fear they would not fulfill orders without foreigners
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30% would have to reduce operations
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24% anticipate a decline in service quality or delays
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18% could lose business continuity altogether
2 Industries most in need of support
The largest demand for foreign workers is:
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TSL (transport-freight forwarding-logistics) - 46% of companies employ foreigners
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Industry - 40%
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Construction - 36%
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Production and warehouses - increasing demand during peak periods
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Services and trade - 23% each, especially in large cities
3. demographics leave no illusions
By 2060, Poland's population will fall by more than 6 million. The number of people of working age will decrease from 21.7 million to about 15 million. This means one thing - without the support of foreigners, the Polish economy will have a huge problem with a shortage of labor.
4. legal employment = new regulations from June 1, 2025
According to the law of June 1, 2025:
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All applications and contracts must be submitted electronically only
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Breaking the rules risks a fine of up to PLN 50,000
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An employee cannot start work solely on the basis of an application submitted
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Employer must have a work permit or statement of assignment
5 What does this mean for companies?
Companies employing foreigners must adapt to the new reality:
✅ Ensure full legality and transparency of processes
✅ Respond quickly to regulatory changes
✅ Use solutions that minimize risks
NJOB - your partner in the new reality
At NJOB, we not only recruit, but take full responsibility for the legality of the entire process:
✔️ We conduct the labor legalization process
✔️ We submit all documents on time
✔️ We provide accommodation and care of the coordinator
✔️ We cooperate only in the temporary work model - in accordance with regulations
Foreigners are crucial to the functioning of many companies today. The data leaves no doubt - without them, the Polish labor market will not be able to cope with the demographic challenges.
Legal hiring is no longer just an obligation, but a strategic necessity.
NJOB is a proven partner for companies that want to operate safely, legally and with accountability. Contact us.