Labour market
17.02.2010
Labour relations and social security
Extensive data show that Poland is a very attractive place for locating high labour-dependent investments, due to:
- the relatively low costs of labour and
- a highly qualified work force.
Compared to other EU countries, labour costs in Poland are among the most competitive, as can be seen in the graph.
The average gross salary in Małopolska between January and July 2008 was PLN 3,003.00 (EUR 715). In comparison with 2007, this represents an increase of 9.1%. The highest average gross salaries for the period January-July 2008 were recorded in Mazowieckie Voivodeship (PLN 3,712.00 or EUR 884) and in Śląskie Voivodeship (PLN 3,618.00 or EUR 861). Małopolska had the fifth-highest gross salary in Poland: graph.
Working time and working time standards
Working time in Poland is equal to 8 hours a day (daily standard)and 40 hours a week (weekly standard). The weekly standard together with overtime cannot exceed 48 hours on average during the accepted settlement period. This limitation does not apply to employees who manage an establishment on behalf of the employer. The duration of the settlement period is defined by the employer via a collective bargaining agreement or in the labour regulations. This period cannot exceed 4 months and only in justified instances can it be extended to 12 months.
Remuneration
Remuneration for work should correspond to the type of work carried out and the qualifications required to perform it. The volume and quantity of services provided should also be considered. Remuneration in Poland is paid based on the amount of time worked (usually a month, but sometimes hours or days) or work units, at least once a month and on a predetermined date. In 2009 the minimum remuneration legally guaranteed is PLN 1,276.00 gross (Journal of Laws of 2008, No.55, item 499). In 2010 this will increase to PLN 1,317.00 gross(Journal of Laws of 2009, No. 48, item 709).
The article from Doing Business - publication prepared by: PriceWaterhouseCoopers in the cooperation with Malopolska Regional Development Agency.