Since 2026, the minimum wage is expected to increase, but is this a real increase in the wallet of Poles? We review the latest proposals, arguments and controversy around the lowest national
What is the minimum wage from 2026?
According to the latest government project, from 1 January 2026 the minimum wage in Poland is to be PLN 4,806 gross monthly. The minimum hourly rate will be raised to PLN 31.40. This means an increase of PLN 140 compared to the year 2025 (currently PLN 4,666 gross).
Who wanted more and who's enough? Government–union–employer dispute
The minimum wage is traditionally emotional. Here is what the various parties propose:
| Page | Minimum wage proposal for 2026 |
|---|---|
| Government | PLN 4,806 gross |
| Trade unions | PLN 5,015 gross |
| Employers | PLN 4,716 gross |
Trade unions argue that the government's raise is not keeping pace with the increase in the cost of living and demand a higher amount. Employers, on the other hand, say that too fast increases in minimum wage can negatively affect small companies.
What does this raise mean for employees?
The increase to PLN 4,806 gross gives "on hand" about PLN 3,606 net. This is 140 PLN gross (about 100 PLN net) more than before, which is just only 3% increase. The value of growth lags behind inflation, and many people expected the government to more "open wallets".
Is that the final decision?
At this point, the government's proposal is most likelyBut by mid-September, there could still be changes. The fight for a minimum salary of 2026 is still ongoing – and its final impact on the budgets of millions of families.
