Publication date: 30.01.2026
Every foreign national working in Poland should make sure that their employment complies with Polish law. Legal employment of a foreigner guarantees financial security, access to social insurance, medical services, and protection of labor rights. In contrast, illegal employment of a foreigner may lead to serious consequences, including fines, residence permit cancellation, deportation, and entry bans.
In practice, many foreigners do not know how to check the legality of a foreigner’s stay or whether their employer follows legal procedures. That is why professional legal verification of documents and contracts is a key element of safe employment in Poland.
Why is it important to verify legal employment?
Not all employers act in full compliance with the law. Some offer jobs without proper permits or under conditions that differ from the issued authorization. The most common risks include:
- illegal employment of a foreigner — high financial penalties for the employer;
- employment of a foreigner without a work permit — fines ranging from 1,500 to 30,000 PLN;
- penalty for illegal employment of a foreigner — administrative liability and residence problems;
- risk of losing residence status;
- difficulties extending visas or residence cards.
Understanding what penalties apply for illegal employment of a foreigner allows workers to avoid serious legal consequences.
Risks related to different employment contract types
Special attention should be paid to the type of contract. Employment of a foreigner under a civil contract (such as mandate or service contracts) is common, but it does not always match the real working conditions. Typical problems include:
- contract terms not matching the issued work permit;
- performing duties different from those stated in documents;
- lack of registration with social insurance authorities;
- employment of a foreigner who lives and works outside Poland without proper registration.
In such cases, even a signed contract does not guarantee legal employment.
How to check the legality of foreign employment?
To make sure your job is legal, a full verification process should be carried out. Key verification steps:
- Document check — work permit, visa, or residence card must match the employment type;
- Contract verification — confirmation that the contract is compliant with Polish labor regulations;
- Legal consultation — assessment of how to check the legality of a foreigner’s stay and employer compliance;
- Verification of social insurance registration;
- Checking position title and job duties compliance.
This process helps avoid situations involving employment of a foreigner without a work permit penalty.
When do violations occur most often?
In practice, legal issues arise most frequently in the following situations:
- job position changes without updating permits;
- working for another employer than the one stated in the permit;
- exceeding allowed working hours;
- failure to notify authorities about changes;
- performing work without a valid residence basis.
Each of these cases may be classified as illegal employment of a foreigner.
Lawyer support — a guarantee of safety
Professional legal assistance significantly reduces employment risks. Our lawyer:
- evaluates legal employment of a foreigner;
- checks employee and employer documentation;
- analyzes contract compliance with permits;
- prepares official requests and notifications in case of violations;
- explains what penalties apply for illegal employment of a foreigner;
- helps correct irregularities quickly and safely.
This ensures stable and legally compliant employment in Poland.
Role of Consultant Legal Marketplace
Consultant Legal Marketplace helps foreigners in Poland find verified labor and immigration law specialists who provide professional employment verification services.
The platform reduces formal mistakes, shortens verification time, and provides centralized professional support.
Conclusion Knowing how to check the legality of a foreigner’s stay, whether employment contracts comply with regulations, and whether employers act legally is essential for safe employment in Poland. Legal employment of a foreigner protects against fines, residence problems, and financial losses. Professional legal verification ensures stability and long-term employment security. Not sure whether your employment is legal? Use Consultant Legal Marketplace and order a professional verification of your documents and employment contract today.
FAQ — Frequently asked questions
Question
Can a foreigner work without a work permit?
Answer
In most cases, no — it is considered a legal violation.
Question
Who is responsible for illegal employment?
Answer
Both the employer and the employee may face liability.
Question
Is a civil contract legal for foreigners?
Answer
Yes, but only if it matches the work permit conditions.
Question
Can I verify my employer independently?
Answer
Yes, but professional legal analysis is more accurate and reliable.
