# How a Ukrainian can work legally in Poland

This guide explains what a Ukrainian needs to work legally in Poland and what the employer must do. It covers the written contract, proof of lawful stay and notification through praca.gov.pl.

Canonical: https://uanear.com/en/poland/guides/legal-work-for-ukrainians · Language: en · Updated: 2026-09-16

Work & business

Check the official source
UA Near is not an official government source. Rules and required documents can change. Confirm the current requirements on the linked official websites before you act.

## Who this guide is for

For Ukrainian citizens who are lawfully staying in Poland under temporary protection, PESEL UKR or another basis and are starting a new job.

## What to prepare

- A valid passport or another identity document.
- Proof of lawful stay and the right to work, such as PESEL UKR, a residence card, visa or another valid document.
- A written employment or civil-law contract stating the work, pay and conditions.
- A copy of the contract and confirmation from the employer that the employment notification was filed.

## What to do, step by step

1. Confirm that your stay in Poland is lawful and that your document gives you the right to work.
2. Before starting work, sign a written contract. The employer must provide a translation into a language you understand before you sign.
3. Start work under the contract. The employer or representative must file the electronic notification through praca.gov.pl with the relevant district labor office.
4. Keep a copy of the contract and proof of notification. Check that the role, hours and pay match the agreement and the legal minimum.
5. If you change employer or start a new job, the new employer must file a separate notification.

## Fees and deadlines

The notification is free for the worker. The employer must file it within 7 days of the work start date.

## Official sources

Open these links before submitting documents—the official authority defines the current rules.

- [Ministerstwo Rodziny, Pracy i Polityki Społecznej — Co się zmienia w pomocy dla obywateli Ukrainy w 2026 r.?](https://www.gov.pl/web/rodzina/co-sie-zmienia-w-pomocy-dla-obywateli-ukrainy-w-2026-r)
- [Państwowa Inspekcja Pracy — Cudzoziemcy w pracy](https://cudzoziemcywpracy.pip.gov.pl/)

## Related services and tools

- [Find an accountant](https://uanear.com/en/poland/accountants)

## About this guide

- Prepared by: UA Near
- Applies to: The whole country
- Reviewed by editors: 2026-09-16
- Status: Recently reviewed