Poland implements new labor inspections and platform work regulations

Poland is navigating significant changes regarding employment classifications as the National Labour Inspectorate (PIP) begins exercising new administrative powers. Since July 2026, district inspectors can issue decisions determining the existence of an employment relationship, even if the parties have signed B2B or mandate contracts. The distinction depends on practical working conditions—such as subordination, availability, and direction—rather than the formal name of the contract.

Simultaneously, the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy is drafting legislation to implement the EU directive on platform work. The proposed law aims to define digital work platforms based on four specific criteria. However, entrepreneurs have expressed concerns that the current definition is imprecise and may fail to distinguish between true platform work and general digitalization. There are fears that the law could inadvertently impact sectors like IT, translation, and accounting, where professionals use digital tools solely for client communication and project management.