Poland Implements New Remote Work Regulations: Here’s What You Need to Know

In Poland, remote working has been largely unregulated for years. That’s all about to change. On April 7th, 2023, major changes to the Polish Labour Code are coming into force. The significant updates reflect the growing trend for remote work.

So, from April 7 2023...

Employers

Will be required to:

· Have a remote working policy in place.

· Provide a monthly allowance to cover employee expenses, such as internet, electricity, and the use of private equipment. This is tax-deductible, but it is still unclear how much employers should pay as compensation for employees. For now, the amount ranges between 0.20-1.00zl per hour. The tax office is expected to decide what is appropriate at a later date.

· Ensure that occupational health and safety standards are followed at the employee’s chosen place of work.

Will be unable to:

· Refuse the remote working requests of specific groups of employees. These include:

o Pregnant women

o Parents of children under the age of 4

o Carers for disabled children or close family members.

The only exception to this is if the nature or organisational requirements of the job do not allow for remote working.

Employees

Will be:

· Able to apply either for occasional remote work up to a maximum of 24 days per year or for fully remote work, provided that the job can be performed remotely.

· Allowed to work from the office as much as they like, even if they have opted for fully remote work.

· Entitled to receive training and technical assistance necessary to perform the work remotely.

· Required to guarantee safe conditions of their workplace - they must confirm adherence to the health and safety rules of the employer.

The new regulations are set to have a substantial impact on both employers and employees, particularly for companies that have a strong preference for in-office work. If you haven’t updated your remote working policies in Poland, it’s time to do so!

At PEO Legal, we provide legal and compliance advice for professional employer organisations and staffing companies worldwide. If you want advice on remote working or any other point of cross-border law, contact us, today.