16:33 8 July 2026
Fuel shield possible**
Poland’s labour market entered a new phase on July 8 as the National Labour Inspectorate (PIP) gained broader powers to challenge civil-law contracts and B2B agreements that effectively function as employment relationships. Rather than relying on the title of a contract, inspectors will examine how work is performed in practice, including supervision, fixed working hours, reporting structures and the use of company equipment.
Businesses have a 12-month transition period, until July 8, 2027, to review and regularise existing arrangements without facing penalties for past violations. However, if inspectors determine that a contract disguises a standard employment relationship, companies could be required to correct social security contributions, tax settlements and employment benefits. The reforms are intended to curb the misuse of flexible contracts while preserving legitimate freelance and business-to-business cooperation.
