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The Employer Declaration system (O?wiadczenie) is a simplified work authorization process that allows employers in Poland to legally hire certain foreign nationals without first obtaining a full work permit.
Instead of going through a lengthy permit procedure, employers register a short declaration of employment (O?wiadczenie o powierzeniu wykonywania pracy cudzoziemcowi) with the local labour office. Once approved, the foreign worker can apply for a visa or residence permit and start working faster.
This system is designed to address labour shortages quickly, especially in seasonal, temporary, or short-term roles.
What Is an O?wiadczenie (Employer Declaration)?
An O?wiadczenie is an official document where a Polish employer:
• Declares intent to hire a foreign worker
• Registers the job with the labour office
• Specifies salary, role, and contract conditions
• Confirms compliance with Polish labour laws
It replaces the need for a traditional work permit for eligible cases.
Who Can Use the O?wiadczenie System?
The system applies only to citizens of specific countries, commonly including:
• Armenia
• Belarus
• Georgia
• Moldova
• Ukraine
• (sometimes others depending on regulations)
Workers from these countries can be hired under simplified rules.
How Long Can You Work Under O?wiadczenie?
The employer declaration allows:
• Work for up to 24 months (under updated rules)
• Employment only for the registered employer
• Legal short-term or temporary work
If employment continues beyond the allowed period, a standard work permit may be required.
How Does the Process Work?
The procedure is relatively straightforward:
Step 1 – Employer Registers the Declaration
The employer submits the job details to the local labour office (Powiatowy Urz?d Pracy).
Step 2 – Declaration Approved
The office registers the O?wiadczenie and issues confirmation.
Step 3 – Worker Applies for Visa/Residence
The worker uses the registered declaration to apply for:
• National work visa (Type D), or
• Temporary residence permit
Step 4 – Start Work Legally
Employment can begin once the visa or legal stay is approved.
Key Requirements
Employers must:
• Offer legal employment contracts
• Pay at least minimum wage or market salary
• Register the worker with social security
• Notify authorities if employment ends early
Workers must:
• Hold valid visa/residence status
• Work only for the listed employer
• Follow Polish immigration rules
Benefits of the O?wiadczenie System
This system provides several advantages:
• Faster hiring compared to standard permits
• Less paperwork
• Lower administrative costs
• Quick response to labour shortages
• Legal and transparent employment
It is widely used in sectors like agriculture, construction, manufacturing, logistics, and hospitality.
Limitations to Know
Despite its flexibility, there are restrictions:
• Only certain nationalities qualify
• Work tied to one employer
• Not intended for permanent or highly skilled roles
• Requires transition to a work permit for long-term employment
Employers must still comply fully with labour and immigration laws.
Conclusion
The O?wiadczenie system offers a practical and faster pathway for Polish employers to hire foreign workers legally without a full work permit. For short-term or temporary employment needs, it provides efficiency while maintaining compliance. Both employers and workers should understand the eligibility rules and limitations before applying.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Polish immigration and labour regulations may change. Always consult official authorities or licensed advisors for current requirements.
February 6, 2026
