Poland's Labour Inspectorate Reform Allows B2B Contracts to Be Converted into Full‑time Jobs

From 8 July 2026 the Polish State Labour Inspectorate (PIP) gains the power to reclassify civil‑law contracts – such as B2B agreements, contracts of mandate and contracts of work – into standard employment contracts when the work relationship meets the criteria of an employment relationship. Employers receive a 12‑month transition period (until 8 July 2027) to voluntarily adjust contracts; after that, inspectors can issue administrative decisions to convert the contracts and impose fines ranging from 2 000 to 60 000 zł for breaches like undeclared employment, delayed wages, missing leave or failure to provide work certificates.

The reform also introduces mandatory data exchange between PIP, the tax office and the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS), and permits remote inspections. Janusz Krasoń, appointed as the new Chief Labour Inspector on 3 July 2026, will oversee the rollout. Business groups and trade unions have voiced concerns about the inspectorate’s capacity and the potential cost burden, especially in sectors such as healthcare where about 70 % of doctors currently work on B2B contracts. Companies are urged to audit existing agreements, identify high‑risk arrangements and prepare for possible penalties.