Changes in Poland in 2024

A new year brings new regulations. In almost every country, the start of the year is associated with changes, and Poland is no exception.

What changes can Ukrainians expect in Poland? Will the Polish government extend temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees? How much will the minimum wage and hourly rate increase? How much will parents of minor children receive? How will taxation change?

We answer these and other questions in this article.

Increase in Minimum Wage and Hourly Rate

We have already written about the increase in minimum wage and hourly rate in 2024, but let us recap the key points. The minimum wage and hourly rate in Poland will rise in two stages. The first increase took effect on 1 January: the minimum wage rose to PLN 4,242 gross, the minimum hourly rate – to PLN 27.70/hour.

The second increase is scheduled for 1 July 2024. The minimum wage will rise to PLN 4,300 (gross), and the hourly rate – to PLN 28.10 per hour (also gross).

Changes in Taxation

Some changes are also expected in the area of taxation. From 1 January 2024, a monthly income of up to PLN 3,180 (75% of the minimum wage) is exempt from tax and does not require business registration (from July, the tax-free income threshold will increase to PLN 3,225). Poland has a concept known as unregistered activity (niezarejestrowana działalność gospodarcza) – this refers to commercial activity carried out by individuals that generates a small income and therefore does not require registration. You can read more about this on the government portal in the relevant section on unregistered business activity.

Among other potential changes is the increase in the personal income tax-free amount from PLN 30,000 to PLN 60,000. This was an election promise made by one of the Polish parties. Polish pensioners in particular have been awaiting this change, as they were promised tax-free pensions. However, the Ministry of Finance recently announced that such a decision would cost the state budget PLN 48 billion. Whether the Polish government will go ahead with this remains an open question.

Support for Parents

In 2024, Poland will significantly increase support for parents of minor children. Instead of the existing 500+ benefit, children will receive 800+.

Poland also expects the introduction of the "Active Mum" programme for women returning from maternity leave. Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced its launch back in December 2023. Women who have returned to work after giving birth and whose children are under 3 years old will be eligible to receive a monthly benefit of PLN 1,500.

Changes for Refugees

What changes for Ukrainian refugees will be introduced in Poland this year? On 4 March 2024, the temporary protection period expires for Ukrainians who arrived in the country after 24 February 2022. These individuals currently have open access to the labour market. Is it possible that Poland will extend temporary protection until 4 March 2025? There is a chance that the status will be extended not for a full year but for a shorter period (for example, six months). The delay in resolving this issue is linked to diplomatic and financial considerations. As early as autumn, it was reported that the Warsaw government was expecting increased EU funding to cover the costs of hosting refugees.

We will keep you informed about all changes affecting Ukrainians in Poland. And if you are looking for a job, call us: +38 (050) 334-93-51 or +48 525 275 003