The minimum wage in Poland may exceed 5,000 PLN: what the EU directive will change

A discussion is ongoing in Poland regarding the implementation of the EU directive on an adequate minimum wage. If the new rules are fully implemented, the minimum wage may exceed 5,000 PLN gross in the near future. Employers are expressing concern over the increase in labor costs, while trade unions support a mechanism for a fairer increase in the lowest wages.

What the minimum wage is in 2026

From January 1, 2026, the minimum wage in Poland is: 4,806 PLN gross (approximately 3,600 PLN net) According to forecasts of the Ministry of Finance, already next year the minimum wage may exceed 5,000 PLN gross, and within the next 5 years it may approach 6,000 PLN.

What the EU directive provides for

The EU directive does not set a specific amount of the minimum wage, but obliges Member States to introduce a transparent mechanism for determining it. The reference point should be:

• 60% of the median wage or
• 50% of the average wage Currently in Poland, the minimum wage amounts to around 51% of the average wage.

What changes the Polish government proposes

The Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy has prepared a draft law on the implementation of the directive. The document proposes setting the reference value at 55% of the average wage. This means a further increase in the minimum wage.

Why employers oppose it

Business representatives indicate that the rapid increase in the minimum wage:

• increases labor costs;
• raises the burden on small and medium-sized companies;
• may affect competitiveness;
• in extreme cases, may contribute to an increase in unemployment.

They also separately point out that after the changes, bonuses may no longer be included in the structure of the minimum wage. This means an actual increase in the base rate for employers. Trade unions support the idea of gradually bringing the minimum wage closer to European standards. They emphasize the need for:

• fair growth in the income of the lowest-paid workers;
• increased purchasing power of the population;
• reduction of wage inequality.

When changes are possible

Legislative work on the implementation of the directive is delayed. Initially, implementation had been planned as early as autumn 2024. At present, the exact date of entry into force of the changes has not been determined.

What this means for Ukrainians in Poland

For Ukrainians working in Poland, an increase in the minimum wage means:

• growth in official income;
• potentially higher ZUS contributions;
• a higher base for calculating social benefits;
• a possible increase in employers’ productivity requirements.

At the same time, the changes may affect the structure of employment, especially in sectors where a large share of workers receive the minimum wage. Gremi Personal monitors legislative changes in Poland and explains how they may affect Ukrainians who work or plan employment.

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