In recent months, photos of migrants shared by politicians, activists and many independent internet users have increasingly appeared on Polish social media. They are often accompanied by comments suggesting a threat and a rise in illegal immigration to the Republic of Poland. Before passing judgement, however, it is worth considering who the people in the photos are and what the real situation of migrants in Poland looks like.
Who are the migrants in the photos?
The photos published online most often show people who do not look European, which is meant to stir emotions and anxiety. However, in many cases these people are employees of companies operating in Poland, both in large manufacturing firms and in the service or agricultural sectors. Most foreigners living in Poland have the required documents and work in accordance with applicable law.
According to data from the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS), at the end of January 2025 more than 1 million 45 thousand foreigners were working in Poland, already accounting for over 6% of all employed people. The largest group are citizens of Ukraine, but the number of workers from Asia, Africa and South America is also growing.
Needs and challenges in the labour market
For several years, the Polish labour market has struggled with a shortage of workers, especially in industries such as manufacturing, warehousing, agriculture and construction. Experts estimate that by 2025 Poland could be short as many as 1.5 million workers. Employing foreigners has therefore become an important element of how many companies operate.
Employers point out that hiring foreign nationals helps fill staffing gaps and maintain continuity of production. On the other hand, challenges remain in relation to paperwork, language barriers, and the need to provide adequate working conditions and integration.
Working conditions, inspections and illegal cases
The media report cases of violations of workers’ rights against foreigners. The most widely reported concern excessive working hours, lack of contracts, or non-payment of wages. An example from the area of Częstochowa, where workers from Argentina were reportedly made to work as much as 18 hours a day, shows that the problem of abuse exists and requires supervision.
It is worth stressing, however, that apart from legally employed migrants, there are also cases of illegal work. This most often happens through employment agencies that, for a fee, bring people to Poland, promising them decent working conditions and legalisation of their stay.
Foreigners working without the required permits or on terms other than those provided by law are exposed to exploitation as well as legal consequences. This also poses a direct risk to citizens, because such people are not verified and may pose a danger. Under new regulations in force since June 2025, illegal employment is subject to severe financial penalties (from 3,000 to 50,000 zloty per worker), and inspections by the National Labour Inspectorate (PIP) and the Border Guard are becoming more frequent and more thorough. Citizens expect the government to be more transparent about illegal labour migration.
Public perception of migration and security
The tragic incident in Toruń in June 2025, involving a Venezuelan citizen staying in Poland illegally, sparked a nationwide debate on security and migration policy. However, it is worth pointing out that the perpetrator was not employed by a Polish company, and his stay in Poland was of a private nature. Even so, the topic was widely exploited in public debate, which shows how individual incidents can shape the perception of an entire group of foreigners.
Many opinions and interpretations of the presence of migrants in Poland circulate online. Some politicians and commentators stress the need to tighten controls, while others point to the economic and social benefits that come with the presence of foreigners.
The role of employers and the future of the labour market
For many Polish companies, employing migrants is both a daily reality and a necessity arising from real market needs. More and more employers are investing in training, translation and integration programmes, and care for equal treatment of all employees. Challenges remain, but awareness is also growing of how important it is to respect the law and build a positive atmosphere in the workplace.
On the other hand, the state is tightening regulations and increasing oversight to curb abuses and ensure safety for all residents. Continued monitoring of the situation and an open dialogue based on facts, rather than solely on emotions, will be crucial.
The employment of migrants in Poland is a complex phenomenon that requires a perspective that is both economic and social. It is worth relying on data and facts, not solely on images appearing online. Cases of illegal employment do occur, but most foreigners work in Poland legally. The future of the Polish labour market will depend largely on the ability to manage diversity and enforce the law effectively, to the benefit of all parties.
