COVID-19: Work permit exemptions expanded to facilitate work during the pandemic

IMPACT – MEDIUM

The Polish government has provided additional exemptions for foreigners in certain visa categories who may work in Poland without the need to obtain a work permit document.

Work permit exemptions are now available to:

• Holders of valid visas issued due to humanitarian reasons, interest of the country or international obligations (as per Article 60 (1) (23) of the Foreigners Act);
• Holders of valid visa with the annotation “Poland.Business Harbour”;
• Foreigners who are doctors or dentists, who have the right to practice the profession on the principles determined by the Polish provisions of the Act of Dec. 5, 1996 on the professions of doctor and dentist;
• Foreigners whose right to practice the profession of nurse or midwife has been granted or confirmed in accordance with the provisions of the Act of July 15, 2011 on the professions of nurse and midwife;
• Foreigners who are entitled to practice the profession of paramedic in accordance with the provisions of the Act of Sept. 8, 2006, on State Medical Rescue;
• Foreigners who are performing work in private domestic service of a member of a diplomatic mission or consular post of a foreign country or of another person equated with a member of a diplomatic mission or consular post on the basis of laws, contracts or commonly established international customs.

Background: The Polish government previously provided incentives for Belarussian IT sector workers and businesses.

Analysis & Comments: The expansion of work permit exemptions for certain categories of visas held by foreigners or healthcare workers is a continuation of the Polish government’s “Solidarity with Belarus” plan, and a response to the urgent need for health care personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic. The response to COVID-19 continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Please check Deloitte’s COVID-19 Digital Map, available here, for information on travel restrictions and immigration changes in other countries.

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