Sick Leave in Poland Just Got a Major Update: First Day of Illness Now Paid.

Poland Overhauls Sick Pay Rules

According to TSN.ua: Poland has introduced new regulations for calculating sick leave benefits, aiming to provide higher payments to employees. A key change is that the first day of illness will now be included in the benefit calculation. This adjustment is designed to create fairer conditions for workers who need to take medical leave.

The Polish Social Insurance Institution, commonly known as ZUS, administers these sick pay benefits, which amount to 80% of an employee's salary. The maximum payout period is 182 days, though this extends to 270 days for pregnant women and individuals with tuberculosis. These reforms are expected to improve the financial security of workers facing health-related hardships.

Looking Ahead: Future Policy Shifts

Starting in April 2026, Poland will also revise what counts as 'activity incompatible with the purpose of sick leave.' Activities that could affect sick pay eligibility include:

• vacations
• travel
• pilgrimages
• participation in social events
• intense sports

This update is meant to clarify the conditions under which sick pay may be granted or reduced.

Additionally, Poland aims to increase the share of foreign workers in its labor market to 12% by 2030. To achieve this, a draft regulation has been developed to simplify the employment of foreigners in professions facing labor shortages. Occupations that may be included in this list cover:

• engineers
• doctors
• medical specialists
• nurses
• foreign language teachers
• programmers
• energy equipment operators
• teaching assistants
• roofers
• plumbers
• bus and tram drivers

The regulation is set to take effect 14 days after its publication in the Journal of Laws.

It is also worth noting that the special law providing aid to Ukrainian citizens will expire on March 5, 2026. These changes are part of Poland's broader strategy to adapt to evolving economic conditions and labor market demands.

The overhaul of sick leave rules in Poland could significantly impact the financial situation of workers experiencing temporary disability. Including the first day of illness in benefit calculations boosts support levels, marking an important step in the country's social policy. Meanwhile, simplifying the hiring of foreigners in high-demand professions underscores Poland's effort to address labor market challenges and attract skilled professionals, which could drive economic growth.