Seasonal Work in Poland - Rights and Obligations of Employers and Employees

Seasonal work is a form of temporary employment linked to specific times of the year. Agriculture, tourism, catering, logistics - in these industries demand for workers rises sharply during the season and then falls. 2026 brings significant changes to the regulations on seasonal employment - from new rules for counting work seniority to expanded powers for the labor inspectorate. Find out what you need to know as an employer or employee.

What is seasonal work and how long does it last?

The Polish Labor Code does not explicitly define seasonal work. However, according to a ruling of the Supreme Court (III URN 20/86), a seasonal worker is a person performing work during a specific part of the year, linked to the season and weather conditions. In practice, seasonal employment lasts no longer than 9 months in a calendar year. Seasonal work in Poland in 2026 concerns mainly agriculture and horticulture, tourism and hospitality, catering, construction, and logistics and retail during seasonal sales peaks.

Seasonal employment contract - available forms

What exactly is a seasonal contract? This term covers several forms of employment. The most commonly used is a fixed-term employment contract, which provides full statutory protection and - importantly - is not subject to the limit of three fixed-term contracts when used for seasonal work. The second popular form is a contract of mandate (umowa zlecenie), particularly common among students, with a mandatory minimum hourly rate of PLN 31.40 gross in 2026. Employment through a temporary employment agency is also possible - in that case the worker signs a contract with the agency and performs work for the user employer (a maximum of 18 months within a 36-month period).

Seasonal work and social security (ZUS)

Under an employment contract, the employer registers the worker with ZUS within 7 days and pays full social security and health insurance contributions - regardless of the contract's duration. Under a contract of mandate, contributions are also mandatory, except for pupils and students under 26 years of age. Note - a graduate who has completed a bachelor's degree and is waiting to start a master's program loses student status and must be registered with ZUS with full contributions. This is a common employer mistake that, in the event of an inspection, may result in the assessment of overdue contributions plus interest.

Employer obligations and employee rights

An employer hiring seasonal workers must provide initial medical examinations, occupational health and safety (BHP) training, remuneration no lower than the minimum wage (PLN 4,806 gross in 2026), maintain employee records, and issue a PIT-11 form. When employing foreigners, it is necessary to obtain a seasonal work permit from the district labor office (powiatowy urząd pracy). A seasonal worker under an employment contract enjoys full statutory protection - including the right to prorated leave, safe working conditions, and ZUS benefits. Persons under 26 may additionally benefit from the "Tax-Free for Young People" relief (Bez PIT dla młodych).

Seasonal work - 2026 regulations

From 2026, work seniority will include periods of work under a contract of mandate, running a business, and employment abroad (in the private sector from 1 May 2026). The minimum wage has risen to PLN 4,806, and the hourly rate to PLN 31.40. The National Labor Inspectorate (PIP) has gained the power to administratively reclassify a civil-law contract into an employment contract without going through the courts. In addition, by 7 June 2026 Poland must implement the EU directive on pay transparency, which also covers short-term and seasonal contracts.

FAQ - frequently asked questions

Seasonal work - how long does it last?

Seasonal employment lasts a maximum of 9 months within a calendar year. The exact period depends on the industry, the season, and weather conditions.

What contract is signed for seasonal work?

The most commonly used forms are a contract of mandate or a fixed-term employment contract. Employment through a temporary employment agency is also possible.

Are social security contributions paid on seasonal work?

Yes - under an employment contract, contributions are always mandatory. Under a contract of mandate, they are too, except for pupils and students under 26.

What are the new regulations on seasonal work in 2026?

The key changes are counting mandate contracts toward work seniority, a higher minimum wage (PLN 4,806 gross), and the ability of a PIP inspector to reclassify a civil-law contract into an employment contract - without needing to go to court.

Can a foreigner take up seasonal work in Poland?

Yes, provided the employer obtains a seasonal work permit from the district labor office. Citizens of Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, and Armenia can benefit from a simplified procedure, including multi-season entry.

Summary

Seasonal work in Poland in 2026 comes with new obligations for employers and new rights for employees. The key is to consciously choose the contract form, fulfill ZUS obligations on time, and stay informed about current regulations. Gremi Personal supports companies in seasonal recruitment and the legalization of employment for foreigners - from the first document to the last day of the contract.