Working in Germany
Germany is the most common destination for Polish workers. Geographic proximity, strong labor protections, and high wages make it an attractive choice. Understanding the administrative requirements before you arrive saves significant time and stress.
The Anmeldung (address registration) must be completed within two weeks of arriving. Without it, you cannot open a bank account, register with a health insurer, or receive a tax identification number. It is the first step everything else depends on.
Minimum Wage
Germany has a statutory minimum wage that applies to all workers regardless of nationality. It is reviewed regularly. Posted workers from Poland are entitled to the same rate as German workers in the same role.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Employees are automatically enrolled through their employer. You can choose between statutory insurers (AOK, TK, Barmer) and private insurance if your income exceeds the threshold.
Anmeldung Registration
Register your address at the local Einwohnermeldeamt within two weeks of moving in. Bring your passport, rental agreement, and a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation form) signed by your landlord.
Tax Identification
After Anmeldung, you will receive a Steueridentifikationsnummer (tax ID) by post within a few weeks. This number is required by your employer for payroll. Keep it safe as it remains yours for life.
Working in the United Kingdom
The UK left the EU in 2020. Polish workers who were living in the UK before 31 December 2020 and applied for the EU Settlement Scheme have protected rights. New arrivals must use the points-based immigration system.
A National Insurance number is required for tax purposes and to access most public services. You can apply before starting work, and the process is done online through HMRC.
Settlement Scheme Status
If you have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, your right to work in the UK is protected. Carry evidence of your status when requested by employers. New applicants need a skilled worker visa.
National Living Wage
The UK has a National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over, and lower rates for younger workers. Employers are legally required to pay at least this amount. Payslips must show gross pay, deductions, and net pay clearly.
NHS Access
Workers with settled or pre-settled status are entitled to use the NHS. Register with a GP practice near your home address as soon as you arrive. You will need proof of address and your National Insurance number.
Employment Tribunals
If you believe your employer has violated your rights, you can bring a claim to an Employment Tribunal. There is no fee for most claims. The time limit for most claims is three months from the date of the issue.
Working in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a popular destination for Polish workers in logistics, agriculture, and construction. The BSN (citizen service number) is essential for almost everything, from opening a bank account to accessing healthcare.
BSN Registration
Register at a municipality (gemeente) to receive your BSN. You will need a valid passport and proof of your address in the Netherlands. Some municipalities require an appointment booked in advance.
DigiD
DigiD is the Dutch digital identity system used for government services, tax filings, and healthcare access. Apply online after receiving your BSN. The activation letter arrives by post within a few days.
Housing Market
The Dutch rental market is highly competitive, particularly in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Social housing waiting lists are very long. Private rental often requires proof of income equal to a multiple of the monthly rent.
Payslip and CAO
Dutch payslips can be complex. Many industries are governed by collective agreements (CAO) that set minimum pay above the statutory minimum. Check whether your sector has a CAO and what it entitles you to.
Working in Norway
Norway is outside the EU but part of the EEA, meaning Polish citizens have the right to work there without a visa. The cost of living is high, but wages reflect this. Administrative registration happens through the Norwegian Tax Administration.
D-Number Application
A D-number is a temporary identification number for foreign nationals working in Norway. Apply at a tax office (Skatteetaten) with your passport and employment contract. It is needed before you can apply for a tax card.
Tax Card
Your employer needs your tax card (skattekort) to deduct the correct amount of income tax. Apply online at skatteetaten.no after receiving your D-number. Without a tax card, employers deduct at the higher emergency rate.
Minimum Wages by Sector
Norway does not have a universal minimum wage, but many sectors have binding minimum rates set by collective agreements. Construction, cleaning, and hospitality are covered. Check the Arbeidstilsynet website for your sector's rates.
Banking
Opening a bank account in Norway requires a D-number and proof of address. DNB and Nordea are accessible to new arrivals. Some banks offer accounts specifically designed for foreign workers with simplified documentation requirements.
Working in Sweden
Sweden offers strong labor protections and a well-organized social system. Polish citizens have full EU freedom of movement rights. Registration with Skatteverket (the Swedish Tax Agency) is the first administrative step after arriving.
Personnummer
A personnummer (personal identity number) is issued by Skatteverket if you plan to stay in Sweden for more than a year. It is required for almost all services. Those staying shorter periods can apply for a coordination number instead.
Social Insurance
The Swedish social insurance system (Försäkringskassan) covers sick pay, parental leave, and disability benefits. Registration happens automatically once you receive your personnummer and are employed.
Collective Agreements
Sweden has no statutory minimum wage. Pay is determined by collective agreements (kollektivavtal) between unions and employers. Most workers are covered. Understanding which agreement applies to your sector is important.
Healthcare
Healthcare in Sweden is provided through county councils (regioner). Register at a local healthcare center (vårdcentral) after receiving your personnummer. EU citizens can use their EHIC card for temporary stays before registration.