December Labour Market News Summary

December was another month that highlighted the growing role of foreign nationals in the Polish economy. Year after year, the number of immigrants increases — they not only supply the labour market but also drive local economies through rising spending. On one hand, a growing number of foreigners are opting for institutional rental, and on the other, interest in our country among labour migrants from distant corners of the world continues to grow. Check out the most important data and analyses on the labour market and legal changes that may affect Poland's further economic development in 2025.
Colombians conquering Podkarpacie — already ahead of Ukrainians
In 2024, Podkarpacie recorded a record 40% increase in work permit applications for foreigners, with the largest share relating to Colombian citizens. Workers from South America are increasingly finding employment in manufacturing, construction and gastronomy, overtaking the previously dominant Ukrainians. This trend confirms that Poland is becoming a key destination for labour migrants from around the world.
Details in the article money.pl
Will new regulations block flexible hiring of foreigners? — controversial changes in the labour market
The government plans to introduce new regulations that will change the rules for employing foreigners in Poland. Under the draft law, foreigners will be able to obtain a work permit only if the employment is based on an employment contract. Experts point to the risk of increased abuse, the growth of the grey economy, and potential difficulties for Polish companies in seconding employees to other EU countries.
Details in the article pulshr.pl
Institutional rental increasingly popular among foreigners
With the growing number of immigrants, interest in institutional rental (PRS) is also on the rise — it offers transparent terms, flexibility and high standards. This model, in which apartments are rented through institutions rather than private landlords, is particularly popular among young professionals and students who appreciate the ability to sign contracts online and access accommodation tailored to their needs. The article includes data on migration, an analysis of changes in the real estate market and expert opinions on the impact of PRS on its further development in Poland.
Details in the article biznes.newseria.pl
Foreigners driving the Polish economy. Spending by foreigners growing at a surprising pace
In 2023, foreigners spent as much as 44.3 billion zlotys in Poland, an increase of 18.3% compared to the previous year. The main driver of this spending is purchases, which in 2023 amounted to 32.5 billion zlotys, as well as services such as accommodation and food. The article provides details on foreigners' spending in Poland, including the impact of rising inflation and the cost of living, and their role in driving the Polish economy.
Details in the article bezprawnik.pl
Almost one million Ukrainians with a PESEL number in Poland
The number of Ukrainian citizens who have received a PESEL number stands at 988,000 and has been growing steadily since June. Deputy Director of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration, Kamil Kisiel, reported a stable increase in this figure. Ukrainian citizens who have obtained a PESEL are covered by temporary protection and are increasingly taking up work and education in Poland. Additionally, the number of Ukrainian pupils in Polish schools currently stands at 252,900. What are the implications of these changes for the Polish labour market and education?
Details in the article bankier.pl