The most important changes in imigration law in Poland!

The year 2026 is a turning point for imigration law in Poland. If your company employs foreigners or you are planning to expand your international team, you need to be aware of these changes.

The new regulations not only impose stricter requirements, but also ensure greater transparency and order in the processes of legalizing residence and work. Find out what is changing and how to prepare for it.

Polish citizenship- the end of simplified paths

From 2026, the path to Polish citizenship will become longer and more demanding. Candidates will have to meet all three conditions:

• minimum 8 years of legal residence in Poland,
• full tax residency,
• state exam testing knowledge of Polish law, history, and social life.

This is a significant change that eliminates previous “shortcuts” and increases the importance of real integration with the country.

Residence permits- full digitization in the MOS II system

No more paper applications. From 2026, all types of residence permits, temporary, permanent, and long-term EU resident, will be submitted exclusively online via the new MOS II platform.

Thanks to the system, you can:

• log in online,
• attach all required documents,
• sign the application electronically,
• check the status of your case in real time.

This is a great convenience for foreigners and employers, who until now have had to contend with long queues and mismatched forms.

Employers- one mistake can cost PLN 3,000

A new obligation for companies employing foreigners in Poland from 2026-the employment contract must be reported before the foreigner starts work. Failure to report on time will result in a penalty of PLN 3,000 for each case.

For HR departments and business owners, this means that they must carefully monitor the employment legalization process before the employee arrives at the office.

Are you planning to hire foreigners or legalize their stay?

Changes in immigration law from 2026 onwards mean new obligations- but also new opportunities. It will be crucial to prepare adequately for digital procedures, a longer citizenship process, and increased requirements for employers.

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Imigration law 2026

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