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What makes Poland attractive to Expats?

Picture of Gino Peters

Gino Peters

Written By:

Gino Peters

Reviewed By: Belinda E.

June 3, 2026 7:34 pm

Category Tag: News

The rise of remote work made international expansion much easier in recent years, but hiring abroad still comes with legal and administrative complexity, as every country has its own labour laws and payroll rules that must be followed. In addition, not many companies can open a new entity in every new market that they are expanding into. That is when the Employer of Record (EOR) solution comes in handy. 

The EOR serves as the legal employer on paper, while the client company manages important activities related to the employees responsibilities and performance. 

In this guide we will cover what an employer of record is, how it works in detail, how much it can cost and which business should consider an EOR solution. 

What is an Employer of Record (EOR)?

An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third party service provider that legally employs a person on behalf of another company in the country where the employee officially resides. As an official employer the responsibilities of EOR include issuance of an employment contract, processing payroll and withholding taxes and necessary social security contributions, as well as preparation of offboarding documents or any documentation that need to be signed by the employer. In addition, EOR ensures the compliance with local labour laws and serves as a first point of contact for any legal disputes. 

The client company that hired the employee through an EOR also has a list of responsibilities. As an Employer of Record does not have the visibility on operational activities behind the scenes a client company needs to provide direction and ensure proper team integration. 

In simple terms, the EOR provider acts as a legal employer in the country of the employee’s residence, while the client company takes on day-to-day manager work. 

Responsibility

Employer of Record (EOR)

Client Company

Employment contracts & any other official documentation

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Payroll processing

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Income tax & social security contributions

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Compliance with local labour laws

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Statutory benefits administration

  •  
 

Managing daily work and projects

 
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Setting goals and performance expectations

 
  •  

Providing equipment and tools

 
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Leading the employee’s team and workflow

 
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Employer of Record solutions gain more and more popularity in the field of global expansion as they allow businesses to hire best candidates fast and easy while staying compliant with local employment regulations. More information about EOR service are available if you would like to understand more.

EOR Meaning

The term “EOR” is the abbreviation for Employer of Record. 

Employer in this instance stands for the company that hires the employee and takes on duties related to it, such as onboarding and offboarding process, payment of wages and compliance with other legal requirements. 

“Record” from the EOR perspective refers to official registration with government authorities. The name of the EOR provider is stated in all payslips and tax filings, and should also be listed by the employee in any documents where employer must be stated, such as mortgage or loan applications. 

One might ask a question of why this legal structure exists. As it is not possible to provide an employment contract directly to a person that legally resides in another country, the business expanding abroad typically needs to establish a local entity. That involves legal registration, arrangement of local bank accounts and organisation of payroll structure, as well as compliance with local law. 

EOR allows to simplify the global hiring and reduce administrative burden through their existing legal entity. 

There are some other hiring models that can be confused with EOR. 

  • EOR and PEO 

Many sources online refer to EOR as “international PEO”, which may create confusion as these models have 1 important difference. 

A Professional Employer Organisation (PEO) serves as a co-employer of a client company. In other words, a business must already have an established entity in the country. The hiring tasks are, therefore, shared between 2 companies, while legal liability stays only with the client company. In the EOR model all legal risks are being taken by the official employer. Read more about the difference between PEO and EOR here. 

  • EOR and staffing agency 

Staffing companies mainly provide assistance for short-term projects by providing temporary workers. If the client wishes to employ a person for a longer time, EOR approach must be chosen. 

  • EOR and contractor model

Contractor agreements assume the involvement of independent workers rather than employees. This model is also often used for temporary, project-based assignments. It is important to remember that there is a big misclassification risk between a contractor and an employee in the company which can lead to potential legal issues. An EOR ensures that employment is legally compliant with local labour law. 

How does an Employer of Record work?

While it may sound complicated at first, a process behind the employer of record model is relatively straightforward. 

  1. The operating company selects a candidate 

The client company recruits the employee they want to hire in another country 

  1. The EOR becomes the legal employer & local employment contract is issued

The Employer of Record uses its local legal entity to prepare and issue an employment contract that complies with labour law of the country where the employee is based. Depending on case-by- case situation, the work visa might need to be secured beforehand. Our company provides immigration services, more details can be found here. 

  1. Payroll and taxes are managed 

The EOR takes on recurring responsibilities related to a payroll and ensures correct processing of income tax, social security contributions etc

  1. Benefits are administered

Paid leave, sick leave, pension contributions and any other statutory benefits are being managed by the EOR. 

  1. Ongoing compliance and HR support

It is the responsibility of the EOR to monitor changes in local labour law and ensure ongoing compliance. 

Example: 

Imagine a UK-based tech company found a perfect candidate in Germany for a position of a software developer. 

Instead of going through the administrative burden of opening a legal entity in Germany, the company chooses to work with an Employer of Record. The EOR hires the developer under a German employment contract and manages payroll and taxes. At the same time the UK company welcomes the new employee in the team and manages the daily work of a developer. 

What services does an Employer of Record provide?

The Employer of Record does more than just providing an employment contract to the employee. Typically a wide range of HR and compliance services is included in the EOR offer. For example, read about the services included in our EOR package here. 

  • Employment and HR administration 
  • Locally compliant employment contracts and support with other documents requested by authorities
  • Employee onboarding 
  • Employee record management. For example, control over PTO 
  • Payroll and tax management 
  • Regular payroll processing 
  • Tax withholding and reporting of social security contributions with authorities
  • Payslip generation and creation of annual wage tax certificates 
  • Benefits administration 
  • Management of statutory benefits 
  • Pension contributions (where required) 
  • Support with benefits such as maternity leave allowance, sick leave allowance etc
  • Compliance and risk management 
  • Insuring compliance with local labour law 
  • Management of onboarding and offboarding processes 
  • Representation in difficult legal and court cases 
  • Additional services:

Some EOR providers ( such as ThisWorks EOR Services) provide additional services such as: 

  • Work permit and dependent visa support 
  • Background checks 
  • Relocation support 
  • Value added services: support with housing, company car, banking, etc ( depending on the country). 

This vast list of services allows businesses to manage international teams, while staying compliant and avoiding complex local employment administration. 

Benefits of using an EOR service

There are multiple advantages the businesses can get from working with an Employer of Record provider.

  • Faster global hiring 

Setting up a new entity can take up to several months. With an EOR the hiring process can take several days. 

  • Reduced compliance risk 

A trustworthy EOR provider ensures the compliance with all local regulations. As the labour law varies greatly between countries, having a knowledgeable party to rely on can make a big difference. 

  • Lower expansion costs

Establishment of a new entity is not only a time-consuming process, but also costly. With EOR services these costs can be avoided. 

  • Access to global talent

The location of a remote candidate is not a problem if the company uses Employer of Record services. In other words, the best candidate for specific business purposes can be chosen. 

  • Scalable hiring model

EOR services are ideal for organisations that want to scale international hiring quickly. They are particularly useful in the following situations: 

  • Remote-first teams and organisations 
  • Companies testing new markets abroad 
  • Startups expanding internationally

How to choose the right Employer of Record

Choosing  between several EOR providers is important, as it influences not only compliance, but also employee experience for new hires and how your company is perceived on the job market. 

Here are some important things to keep in mind when deciding on your EOR partner:

  • Geographic coverage 

Make sure that EOR provider can cover the country where you want to expand globally. Read about our EOR coverage here.

  • Pricing transparency

Check that EOR provider does not have any hidden costs and the pricing is clearly outlined in your MSA. 

  • Compliance expertise 

A strong EOR provider should have a team of experienced local HR specialists who understands all in and outs of a national labour law. 

  • In-house vs partner model 

Some EOR providers rely on their third-party partners, while others manage employment directly through their own local entities. 

  • Customer support

It is important to find a EOR partner that helps with any questions or concerns in a quick and professional manner. That can be crucial when dealing with employee offboarding or any legal disputes.

Warning signs

Understanding the importance of choosing a right party, your company should be cautious of providers that lack local expertise and cannot give clear answers to your labour law questions. In addition, companies with slow response times can  prove to be unreliable in critical situations. Furthermore, providers with complex pricing models with many hidden fees can create a lack of cost transparency and result in unforeseen expenses. 

By selecting a provider with strong expertise in local labour law and reliable support from dedicated teams, your company can ensure a smooth international growth. Learn why companies choose ThisWorks as their EOR partner. 

How much does an employer of record cost

The vast coverage of services the employer of record provides makes many businesses ask how much an EOR costs. 

Pricing models vary greatly on the provider and the country of coverage, but most EORs use one or more of the following structures. 

  1. Flat monthly fee per employee. 

The EOR provider charges a fixed monthly fee for each employee they have on the payroll from the client. 

  1. Percentage of salary

While not being a popular approach, some EOR providers charge a percentage of the employee’s salary, typically ranging between 5%-15%. 

  1. Setup fees

Some providers charge onboarding or offboarding fee for each employee. 

The fee that the business needs to pay to an EOR provider also depend on the location of a service. Local labour law complexity of some countries can influence the fee. In addition, some countries have specific statutory benefits and payroll administration requirements. Furthermore, employee headcount in the specific location can influence the fee. 

EOR vs setting up a legal entity

To establish a new entity the organisations needs to go through legal and tax registration. In addition, accounting support and ongoing compliance costs such as the fees for local labour lawyers can make setting up a legal entity significantly more expensive. 

An EOR allows companies to expand globally without these upfront investments.

EOR vs hiring contractors

Some businesses decide to hire international workers as contractors. However, this approach can often lead to a misclassification risk, which can cause legal and tax liabilities. 

A professional EOR provider ensures that the new starters are compliantly onboarded under local employment regulations. 

 EOR FAQs

  • Is an EOR the same as a PEO?

No.  PEO model assumes co-employment and requires the business to already have established local entity, while EOR employs new talents through its own entity only. 

  • Can an EOR hire contractors?

While some EOR providers can support hiring contractors, it is important to remember that main function of EOR is the employment of full-time workers legally in a country. A risk of misclassification between EOR and contractor should be also considered carefully. 

  • Is an employer of record legal?

Yes, when established and structured properly, Employer of Record entities are legal and widely used for international expansion by many companies. 

  • When should you use an EOR?

The most common reason for using EOR include: 

  • Hiring employees located in another countries remotely
  • Testing new markets before establishing an entity 
  • Expanding internationally
  • Can you switch from EOR to your own entity?

Yes. Many companies initially hire through an EOR for the ease and speed of expansion and later transition employees to own legal entities upon their establishment. It is important to remember that some countries require specific procedure to be followed in such a scenario.

Get in touch with ThisWorks

Expanding your team globally does not need to be long and administratively complex. 

With the use of Employer of Record the businesses can have access to the best talent from around the world while ensuring full compliance with local labour laws. 

ThisWorks can support your global expansion with our compliant Employer of Record services. 

Contact our team to find our how we can help your international team glow fast and compliantly!

Full Guide: What makes Poland attractive to expats

Its rising economy, excellent public services, rich cultural heritage, and friendly people have all helped Poland become a popular place for people to live permanently. This guide will give you a full look at all the factors that make Poland so appealing to people who want to live abroad. Some of the things that will be talked about are the cost of living, job opportunities, the health care system, places that are friendly to foreigners, and the challenges of speaking Polish. Polish people are friendly and open, and the country offers a unique mix of chances and cultural experiences for people who want to start a new stage in their lives.

Living Costs in Poland for Expats

Cost of Living Advantage

When compared to the majority of Western European nations, Poland’s cost of living is significantly cheaper, making it a particularly appealing location for people who are looking to relocate. This perk makes it possible for expats to live a good life without straining their funds. Individuals seeking financial security may be interested in moving to Poland because the country is affordable in many other areas of daily life as well.

Accommodation

The prices of homes in Poland are surprisingly low, especially when compared to the prices of homes in Western European towns. Because flats and houses are often rented for less money, expats can find good places to live without having to pay high prices. Expats can find this cheap living in both cities and rural areas, so they have a lot of options to choose from based on their needs and preferences.

Daily Expenses

Some of the factors that contribute to Poland’s overall lower cost of living are the country’s daily costs, which include transportation, eating, and grocery shopping. There are a variety of reasonably priced choices available for fresh vegetables and other necessities in supermarkets and local markets. The use of public transportation is not only efficient but also economical, making it possible for inhabitants to travel around cities and regions without incurring a large financial burden.

Utilities and Services

The costs of these things, like electricity, heat, and the internet, are not too high in Poland. People who live outside of Western Europe can get these basic services for a lot less than people who live in those countries. When living abroad, having reliable and cheap services is important for making sure that you can afford to live the way you do.

Entertainment and Leisure

There are many different kinds of cultures in Poland, and most of the time, the prices for fun there are lower than in other European countries. As a result, expats can enjoy theatres, museums, eateries, and other leisure activities without spending a lot of money, which makes their general quality of life better.

Job Opportunities in Poland for Foreigners

There has been a growing need for experienced professionals in Poland, which has resulted in Poland being an increasingly appealing destination for expats who are looking for employment possibilities here. In this article, we will provide a summary of the work options and prospects available to foreigners.

Growing Economy and Opportunities

The vibrant and dynamic economy of Poland has resulted in an increased need for qualified professionals across a variety of industries. Since the nation has been seeing constant economic growth, it has become an attractive destination for individuals from other countries who are looking for work possibilities. Professionals with specialized knowledge are frequently in great demand in fields such as information technology, finance, engineering, and healthcare. If you’re looking to expand your business into Poland, our experts are here to assist and manage the process for you.

In-Demand Skills

Foreign nationals who possess abilities that are in high demand might discover a great deal of employment chances in Poland. Software developers, IT professionals, and engineers are in high demand in the information technology industry, which is experiencing a period of rapid growth. As Poland continues to draw firms from across the world, having a strong command of many languages, particularly English, is a valuable advantage in international corporations.

 

Job Search Platforms

People looking for work can look at a number of online tools and websites that connect employers with potential workers. Job posting sites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and neighborhood job boards have ads for jobs in many fields. Meeting people at professional events, conferences, and internet groups can also help you find a job and learn more about the job market.

Language Requirements

While English is widely spoken in business and multinational companies, knowing the Polish language can significantly enhance job prospects. Some roles may require proficiency in Polish, especially in customer-facing positions or those involving local clientele.

Work Permits and Visas

A work permit and a visa are normally required for foreign nationals who wish to find employment in Poland. In order to complete the procedure, you will need to get a job offer from a Polish business. This is because the work visa is frequently associated with a particular role. To a greater extent than non-EU nationals, EU citizens are subject to streamlined processes. If you want to know more about Poland’s work permits and Visas check out this blog.

Internship Programs

Participating in internship programs can be a strategic entry point for foreigners. Many companies offer internship opportunities that can later lead to full-time employment. This approach allows individuals to gain valuable work experience while establishing connections within their industry.

Networking and Professional Organizations

Building a professional network is crucial in any job search. Joining industry-specific groups, attending conferences, and becoming a member of professional organisations can provide access to job openings and valuable connections in the Polish business community.

Pros and Cons

Pros of living and working in Poland

  • Comprehensive Facilities: Poland boasts a healthcare system with a wide range of comprehensive facilities, ensuring access to various medical services.
  • Well-Trained Professionals: The system is staffed with well-trained medical professionals, contributing to the overall quality of healthcare in the country.
  • Accessibility and Affordability: Expatriates often appreciate the accessibility and affordability of healthcare services in Poland. Routine check-ups and emergency treatments are not only available but also reasonably priced.
  • Inclusive Healthcare Services: The system covers a spectrum of healthcare services, from routine check-ups to emergency treatments, providing a holistic approach to medical care for residents.

Cons of living & working in Poland

  • Varied Quality Across Regions: There may be variations in the quality of healthcare services in different regions of Poland. Major cities often have well-equipped facilities, but rural areas might experience limitations.
  • Need for Language Proficiency: While English is spoken in many medical facilities, having a basic understanding of Polish can be beneficial for expats to navigate the healthcare system effectively.
  • Private Healthcare Options: While not necessarily a drawback, some expats might prefer private healthcare options for faster access and more personalized services, especially if seeking additional comfort and convenience in their healthcare experience.

Expat-Friendly Cities in Poland

There is a wide variety of cities in Poland, each of which has its own distinct attraction, making Poland a particularly appealing location for people who are looking to relocate abroad. As a result of the fact that every place offers its own set of benefits, selecting the appropriate city becomes extremely important for expats.

Warsaw

Warsaw is Poland’s capital and largest city, and it is a dynamic metropolis that has a thriving cultural scene as well as a vast number of possible employment options. There is a diverse expat community in the city, which contributes to the city’s global culture. Those who are looking for a lively urban lifestyle will find that Warsaw is the perfect place to be because it has a bustling nightlife, historical attractions, and contemporary infrastructure.

Krakow

Known for its rich history and charming old town, Krakow offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Warsaw. The city is a cultural hub with numerous festivals, historic sites, and a thriving arts scene. Expats drawn to a mix of history and leisure find Krakow an appealing choice.

Wroclaw

Wroclaw, with its picturesque architecture and lively market squares, exudes a unique charm. This city in western Poland offers a blend of history, modernity, and a friendly atmosphere. Expatriates seeking a balance between tradition and a cosmopolitan vibe may find Wroclaw particularly inviting.

Poznan

Poznan, located in the west, is known for its historic Old Town and vibrant cultural events. The city’s youthful energy, driven by its university population, creates a dynamic environment. Expats looking for a city with a lively spirit and a mix of history and modernity may find Poznan appealing.

Gdansk

On the Baltic coast, Gdansk combines maritime history with a lively cultural scene. The city’s picturesque architecture, historic shipyards, and coastal charm make it an attractive option. Expats seeking a coastal lifestyle, historical richness, and cultural diversity may find Gdansk an ideal choice.

Choosing among these cities depends on various factors, including personal preferences, professional opportunities, and lifestyle considerations. Poland’s cities collectively offer a mix of historical charm, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere, making the country an enriching experience for expatriates. The variety of options ensures that each individual can find a city that resonates with their unique desires and goals.

Poland’s Healthcare System

Poland’s healthcare system plays a pivotal role in shaping the country’s appeal for expatriates and residents alike. Offering a comprehensive range of medical services, the system combines modern facilities with a cadre of well-trained medical professionals, contributing to the overall well-being of the population.

Comprehensive Facilities

Poland’s healthcare infrastructure includes a network of comprehensive facilities, ranging from hospitals and clinics to specialized treatment centers. This ensures that residents have access to a diverse array of medical services, covering preventive care, routine check-ups, and specialized treatments.

Well-Trained Medical Professionals

The healthcare system is fortified by a workforce of well-trained medical professionals. Physicians, nurses, and support staff undergo rigorous training, upholding high standards of care. This professional competence contributes to the reliability and effectiveness of healthcare services across the country.

Accessibility and Affordability

One of the standout features of Poland’s healthcare system is the accessibility and affordability of services. Routine check-ups, diagnostics, and emergency treatments are not only readily available but are also reasonably priced. This inclusivity ensures that residents, including expatriates, can access necessary healthcare without significant financial burden.

Inclusive Healthcare Services

The healthcare system adopts a holistic approach, covering a wide spectrum of services. From routine check-ups to emergency treatments, the system addresses various medical needs, promoting overall health and well-being. This inclusiveness is vital for creating a healthcare environment that caters to the diverse health requirements of the population.

Challenges and Considerations

However, like any healthcare system, Poland’s is not without challenges. Language barriers can be a concern for expatriates seeking medical attention, although many healthcare professionals do speak English. Additionally, there may be variations in the quality of healthcare services across different regions. Major cities tend to have well-equipped facilities, while rural areas might face limitations.

Private Healthcare Options

For those seeking additional comforts and conveniences, private healthcare options are available. These alternatives often offer faster access to services and a more personalized approach to healthcare. While not a necessity, private healthcare can be a preference for individuals desiring a higher level of service and a more tailored healthcare experience.

Poland’s healthcare system stands as a crucial asset, providing a balance between comprehensive services, accessibility, and affordability. Expatriates and residents benefit from a well-structured healthcare framework that addresses various medical needs while considering the challenges associated with language and regional variations.

Language Challenges for Expats in Poland

While Poland is known for its English-speaking population, expatriates may encounter language challenges in certain situations. Although many locals are proficient in English, especially in urban areas and among the younger population, learning basic Polish phrases can enhance the expat experience and facilitate smoother interactions in daily life. Embracing the local language also fosters a deeper connection with the culture and community, making the overall expat journey more enriching.

Conclusion

Poland’s allure for expatriates lies in its dynamic economy, affordable living costs, and a welcoming environment that embraces cultural diversity. The country’s blend of modern amenities, rich history, and warm-hearted people make it a compelling destination for those seeking new adventures. While there are certain challenges, such as language barriers and variations in healthcare quality, the overall expat experience in Poland is overwhelmingly positive. As the country continues to evolve and thrive, it remains a beacon for individuals seeking a fulfilling life, both personally and professionally, in the heart of Europe.

FAQs

How easy is it to get European citizenship by descent in Poland?

Acquiring European citizenship by descent in Poland can be relatively straightforward if one can prove direct lineage to a Polish ancestor. However, the process involves a detailed application and eligibility criteria, varying based on individual circumstances.

What are the challenges for expats and locals in Poland?

Expats in Poland may face language barriers, cultural adjustments, and adapting to the local work environment. For locals, economic challenges and occasional political tensions can be prevalent, impacting daily life and contributing to social and economic concerns.

Is English widely spoken in Poland?

English proficiency is growing in Poland, particularly in urban areas and among the younger population. In cities and tourist hubs, many people, especially in business and services, speak English, making it easier for expats and travelers to communicate and navigate daily life.

How easy is it to move to Poland without a job offer?

Moving to Poland without a job offer is possible, but it requires financial planning. Applicants may need to show proof of sufficient funds to support themselves initially for a residence permit.

What is the cost of living in Poland for expats?

The cost of living in Poland for expats varies based on factors like location and lifestyle. Generally, it is lower than in Western Europe. Cities like Warsaw and Krakow can be more expensive, while smaller towns offer a more affordable lifestyle.

What are the advantages of living in Poland?

Living in Poland offers advantages such as a rich cultural heritage, a relatively low cost of living, a growing economy, diverse landscapes, well-connected transportation, and a good quality of life. Expats can enjoy a mix of historical charm and modern amenities.

What are the disadvantages of living in Poland as an expat?

Disadvantages for expats in Poland may include language barriers, cultural differences, a slower bureaucratic process, and adapting to the harsh winters. Some individuals may find these aspects challenging during their transition.

How is the Polish healthcare system?

The Polish healthcare system is a mix of public and private facilities. Major cities have well-equipped facilities, but expats may need private insurance for comprehensive coverage. Quality can vary.

How can foreigners find jobs in Poland?

Foreigners can find jobs in Poland by searching online portals, networking, and checking company websites. Possessing skills in demand, especially in fields like IT or finance, enhances job prospects. Knowledge of Polish can also be beneficial.

What is the Polish train system like?

Poland’s train system is well-developed, connecting cities and towns efficiently. The Intercity and regional networks offer reliable and comfortable travel, with scenic routes and modern amenities for passengers.

 

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Our Company

ThisWorks supports companies expanding internationally.

As an Employer of Record (EOR), we enable you to hire employees in the UK, Netherlands, Germany, Poland, and Spain  without setting up a local entity. We handle payroll, contracts, and compliance, so you can focus on growth.

Read More

What Makes ThisWorks Different

Global expansion made simple.

✔ Hire internationally without foreign entities
✔ Stay fully compliant
✔ Save time and resources

Expand faster with ThisWorks.

Free Consultation

Table of Contents

Get Updates

Sign up for our latest news & articles. We won’t give you spam mails.

[mc4wp_form id="1237"]

Our Company

ThisWorks supports companies expanding internationally.

As an Employer of Record (EOR), we enable you to hire employees in the UK, Netherlands, Germany, Poland, and Spain  without setting up a local entity. We handle payroll, contracts, and compliance, so you can focus on growth.

Read More

What Makes ThisWorks Different

Global expansion made simple.

✔ Hire internationally without foreign entities
✔ Stay fully compliant
✔ Save time and resources

Expand faster with ThisWorks.

Free Consultation