Poland and Hungary tighten foreign worker permits, sparking business concerns

Poland and Hungary are curbing the admission of non‑EU labour. Poland’s government cut work permits for non‑EU citizens by about 22 % in 2023 and introduced stricter electronic checks that reduced the number of permits issued in 2025. Hungary stopped issuing worker visas for citizens of the Philippines, Georgia and Armenia in June, citing a first step toward regulating guest workers. Opinion polls in both countries show broad public backing for the limits.

Economists warn the restrictions could slow growth. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development notes that fewer workers may reduce tax revenues and increase pension and health‑care costs. The Polish Economic Institute forecasts that Poland could be short of 2.1 million workers by 2035, potentially cutting 6‑8 % from its GDP, while non‑EU workers currently account for about 10.7 % of the country’s output. Business groups complain of long waiting times for permits, with some applications taking six months or more, prompting firms to look for staff abroad. The combined policy shift is creating labour‑supply tensions for companies operating in both nations.