The Czech government has announced that it will increase the minimum wage by just under 6.2% in 2022.

Key Points:

  • The Czech Republic’s national monthly minimum wage will increase by 1000 Czech koruna from 15,200 CZK to 16,200 CZK.
  • The new minimum wage will take effect Jan. 1, 2022.
  • The 2022 national minimum wage has no effect on EU Blue Card salary requirements.

BAL Analysis: Businesses may see a slight increase in labor costs because of the new minimum wage. Employers should take the new minimum into account when planning their 2022 budgets.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

The Slovakian government has announced that it will increase the minimum wage by just over 3.5% in 2022.

Key Points:

  • Slovakia’s national monthly minimum wage will increase by 23 EUR from 623 EUR to 646 EUR.
  • The new minimum wage will take effect Jan. 1, 2022.

BAL Analysis: Businesses may see a slight increase in labor costs because of the new minimum wage. Employers should take the new minimum into account when planning their 2022 budgets.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com

IMPACT – MEDIUM

The Polish government has announced it will update its testing requirements for non-Schengen Area travelers on Dec. 15.

Key Points:

  • Beginning Dec. 15, individuals traveling to Poland from outside the Schengen Area must have proof of a COVID-19 test taken within 24 hours of departure.
  • As of Dec. 15, individuals traveling to Poland from outside the EU, Schengen Area or Turkey must quarantine for 14 days unless they:
    • Are fully vaccinated, 14 days have passed since the final dose was administered and their vaccination is certified by the EU digital COVID certificate or other document in Polish or English.
    • Are under the age of 12 and traveling with fully vaccinated adults.
    • Have been previously infected with COVID-19 within six months of intended arrival.

Additional Information: Individuals who are traveling to Poland for no more than 24 hours and have a ticket confirming their departure within this period are not subject to the 14-day quarantine. Travelers Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe are not eligible for the quarantine waiver.

BAL Analysis: The new testing requirements and quarantine makes travel to Poland more difficult. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and BAL will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

The Polish government has published a draft law to improve the application processes for temporary residence and work permits.

Under the draft law:

  • Authorities would no longer require foreign nationals to meet regular income requirements or have a confirmed place of residence to apply for a temporary residence or work permit.  
  • Foreign nationals would have access to a simplified system for changing residence and work permits in the event they change positions or employers.  
  • Eligible foreign nationals would be able to get a temporary residence or work permit through an expedited process if they would work for businesses essential to the Polish economy.  
  • Eligible individuals would be able to extend their special permits up to 24 months.  

Additional information: More information on the proposed changes to residence and work permit processes can be found here. The Polish government has yet to announce when the aforementioned changes would be implemented.

BAL Analysis: If the law is finalized, foreign nationals would be able to get temporary residence or work permits with less difficulty due to the streamlined processes. BAL will continue to monitor these proposed amendments to the residence and work permits and will provide more information as it becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries, please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

The Polish government has updated its rules for foreigners entering the country for business purposes.

Key Points:

  • As of Oct. 16, foreign nationals traveling for business visits can now enter the country with a written invitation from a Polish business that:
    • Is written on the sponsoring business entity’s letterhead.
    • States the reason for the business visit.
    • Includes the traveler’s full name, passport number and dates of stay.
    • Is signed by an individual from the sponsoring business.
  • The invitation should be enclosed with a copy of the recent extract from the National Court Register or the Central Registration and Information on Business, concerning the inviting Polish business.
  • Foreign nationals who require a visa to enter Poland must submit their visa application and invitation letter directly at a Polish consular office.

Additional information: The letter requirement does not apply to foreign nationals from other Schengen Area countries or to those who were previously allowed to enter Poland without having to acquire a special recommendation from the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

BAL Analysis: The new border crossing rules make it easier for many foreign nationals to enter the country for business travel. The change does not affect existing entry requirements or bans.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries, please contact copyright@bal.com.

What is the change?  Poland has increased the minimum salary threshold for EU Blue Cards to 7,751.21 zloty (about $2,011) per month.

  • Effective date: The change took effect Feb. 9, 2021, and will remain in effect for the remainder of the year.
  • Visas/permits affected: EU Blue Card applications.
  • Who is affected: Employers of foreign nationals requiring an EU Blue Card (temporary residency permit with the right to work for highly skilled employees).
  • Next steps: Companies should adjust their salaries as needed for EU Blue Card applicants in 2021.

Analysis & Comments: The new salary threshold is part of an annual average income review published by the Polish Main Statistical Office. The new salary minimum represents a 5% increase over last year’s threshold, and employers should plan accordingly.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network ofmember firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States, which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2021. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Poland has set new minimum salary thresholds for foreign nationals working on local contracts, EU ICT permit holders, and non-EU posted workers.

What does the change mean? Beginning Jan. 1, foreign nationals working on local contracts must be paid 2,800 PLN gross per month. EU ICT permit holders and posted workers must be paid according to the applicable minimum in their administrative region (voivodship); new thresholds for these workers took effect Nov. 18. Income minimums for residence permit holders have not changed.

  • Implementation time frame: The new monthly minimum for local contracts will take effect Jan. 1. The new monthly minimums for ICTs and posted workers took effect Nov. 18.
  • Who is affected: Employers and foreign nationals working in Poland on a local contract, ICT mobility permit holders and non-EU posted workers.
  • Business impact: Businesses may see a slight increase in labor costs because of the new salary thresholds.
  • Next steps: Authorities are expected to announce new EU Blue Card salary thresholds in the first quarter of 2021.

Additional Information: The salary minimum for local employment contracts affects foreigners hired locally throughout Poland, i.e., those holding Type A work permits or residency permits with right to work. The minimum salary threshold for posted workers (work permits C, D and E for assignments) and EU ICT permit holders depends on the province where the applicant applies for the permit. The minimum income thresholds for residency permits apply to all foreigners applying for residency permits, including dependent family members.

Work Permit Holders for Local Hires Minimum Salary Threshold (per month)
All of Poland 2,800 PLN
Work Permits for posted workers, EU ICT permits Minimum Salary Threshold (per month)
Lower Silesia (capital city: Wrocław) 3,528.20 PLN
Kujawy-Pomerania (Bydgoszcz) 3,010.76 PLN
Lublin (Lublin) 3,051.17 PLN
Lubusz (Gorzów Wielkopolski) 3,033.21 PLN
Łódzkie (Łódź) 3,184.30 PLN
Lesser Poland (Kraków) 3,365.99 PLN
Masovia (Warszawa) 4,159.81 PLN
Opole (Opole) 3,133.79 PLN
Podkarpackie (Rzeszów) 2,957.29 PLN
Podlaskie (Białystok) 3,057.00 PLN
Pomerania (Gdańsk) 3,387.07 PLN
Silesia (Katowice) 3,445.95 PLN
Świętokrzyskie (Kielce) 2,981.72 PLN
Warmia-Masuria (Olsztyn) 2,895.38 PLN
Greater Poland (Poznań) 3,149.74 PLN
West Pomerania (Szczecin) 3,135.62 PLN
Residence Permits Minimum Income Threshold (per month)
All of Poland 701 PLN for a single-person household (unchanged)

528 PLN per person for a multi-person household (unchanged)

Analysis & Comments: Employers should be sure to account for the new salary minimum when planning their budgets. Deloitte will continue to follow developments in Poland and will update clients once new EU Blue Card minimums are announced.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2020. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

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.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2020. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

 

 

 

IMPACT – MEDIUM

The Polish government is providing new incentives for Belarussian IT sector workers and businesses.

Key Points:

  • Individuals starting a business, programmers and IT professionals are being encouraged to apply to relocate to Poland.
  • The Polish government says it will support innovative start-ups, relocate employees and family members to Poland and provide legal aid to Belarus citizens under a new program called “Poland.Business Harbour.”
  • Additional incentives include matching Belarus entrepreneurs with investors and grants. Entry requirements for dependents of Belarussians have also been loosened as entry visas applied under the program shall be processed on priority basis.
  • Belarussian nationals including dependents, are now eligible for entry to Poland despite COVID-19 entry restrictions applicable to all non-EU nationals who are not arriving for employment purposes. Belarus nationals have been listed as a special exempt category of foreigners who can enter Poland irrespective of purpose of visit, of course provided they have entry visa granted.

Additional Information: A hotline has been set up for Belarus citizens wanting to work in Poland.

Analysis & Comments: The easing of requirements for Belarus citizens in Poland is a response to geo-political conditions in Belarus, however, it has real immigration implications that could make it easier for Belarussian IT sector workers and entrepreneurs to relocate to Poland.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2020. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

 

 

IMPACT – HIGH

Poland continues to take steps to reopen international travel and resume visa services abroad, while restricting entry to foreign nationals of countries with a high rate of COVID-19 infection.

Key Points:

  • Foreign nationals who work in Poland or plan to start working in Poland and have the proper documents (e.g., a work permit) are now permitted to enter Poland in most cases.
  • Poland is also permitting entry to permanent residents; spouses or children of Polish nationals; EU/EEA or Swiss nationals; and nationals of Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Thailand or Tunisia, regardless of their reason for air travel; and a limited number of other foreign nationals.
  • In September, authorities updated list of air travel restrictions to Poland from 44 countries (currently valid until Sept. 15), including some EU countries (Luxembourg, Malta, Romania and Spain) as well as non-EU countries such as Brazil, China and the United States.
  • Polish consulates and visa centers have reopened in several countries. Applicants can now apply for visas in Canada, India (New Delhi), Russia, the United States (Washington, D.C.) and most European Union countries. The reopening of additional sites will depend on of COVID-19 situation in each country.

Background: Foreign nationals were banned from entering Poland in March because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In June, Poland reopened its border to travelers from other EU nations. Citizens of the EU can travel freely to Poland and do not have to quarantine upon arrival.

Analysis & Comments: The response to the COVID-19 pandemic 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.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2020. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.