Foreign workers in Poland surge 7.2% year-on-year; now total 1.129 million
As of September 2025, 1.129 million foreigners were legally employed in Poland, up 7.2% from a year earlier. The influx reflects persistent labour shortages and Poland's growing dependence on international workers to fill manufacturing, logistics and construction roles.
Poland's reliance on foreign labour has reached a structural tipping point. Statistics Poland reported that 1.129 million foreigners were working legally in the country at the end of September 2025, representing a 7.2% year-on-year increase. This figure underscores how dependent Poland's economy has become on international workers across key sectors.
Where Foreign Workers Concentrate
Manufacturing remains the single largest employer of foreign workers, particularly in automotive supply, furniture production, and machinery. Logistics and warehousing follow, with major distribution hubs across Poland actively recruiting. Construction and hospitality complete the top demand sectors. Most foreign workers originate from Ukraine, followed by Asian countries including India, Vietnam, and Philippines.
The tight labour market—with registered unemployment at 6.1% in March 2026 but harmonised measures closer to 3–4%—means employers cannot fill positions with domestic talent alone. Skill mismatches and wage expectations have made international hiring not merely an option but an economic necessity.
As a foreigner considering work in Poland, this trend works in your favour: employers are actively recruiting and immigration pathways remain relatively open. Manufacturing, IT and warehousing roles are easiest to secure; language requirements vary sharply by sector, with production floor roles typically requiring minimal Polish.
Sources
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