Student Work Rules Tighten: Non-Approved Universities Require Permits from July 1
As of July 1, 2026, employers must now obtain work permits for students from universities not on Poland's ministerial list. The change tightens oversight of student employment and affects thousands of non-EU students.
Poland has implemented a significant new employment rule affecting international students: starting July 1, 2026, employers must obtain work permits for students from universities not included on the Polish Ministry's approved list.
What Changed
Previously, students could work under a simplified framework tied to their student status. That flexibility has ended. Now, employers must go through the formal work permit process for any student whose university does not appear on the official ministerial register.
The transition period expired on June 30, 2026. Students from approved institutions (those on the ministerial list) may continue working under the existing streamlined rules. All others now require their employers to apply for and obtain a separate work permit before they can legally work.
Implications for Students and Employers
- Employers must act before hiring. Unlike before, part-time or full-time student employment is no longer automatic. Failure to secure a work permit before the student starts work can result in fines and sanctions.
- Students must verify their university status. Check whether your institution appears on Poland's ministerial list at gov.pl or ask your university's international office.
- Processing delays expected. Work permit applications are now submitted exclusively through praca.gov.pl; this is an online-only process and paper submissions are rejected outright.
If you are a student from a non-approved university planning to work in Poland, ensure your employer understands the new requirement and begins the work permit application in advance—do not assume your student status covers employment.
Sources
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