Legal Hurdles for Polish Workers in the UK: What You Need to Know in 2025

Irion Dekov
Apr 29
4 min read

Updated: Jun 10

Introduction

Since Brexit, the UK is no longer as easy to move to for work. Now, Polish workers must go through more steps to live and work there. Immigration rules have changed a lot, and many people find it confusing. That’s why it’s important to know what to expect if you are planning to move to the UK in 2025. This guide will help you understand the main legal hurdles and how to deal with them.

Challenges with Work Permits and Visas

To begin with, in order to work lawfully in the UK, any Polish employee must have a valid visa. The Seasonal Worker Visa and the Skilled Worker Visa are the most popular choices. Applying for a visa, however, can be challenging. Many people don't meet the salary requirements, forget documents, or perform poorly on the English language test. As a result, many applications are denied.

Additionally, obtaining a visa can be costly and time-consuming. Therefore, it's crucial to prepare ahead of time, review the most recent regulations, and perhaps seek legal advice if you are unsure of what to do. Otherwise, minor errors could jeopardise your employment prospects in the UK.

Recognition of Qualifications

Recognising qualifications is another significant obstacle. Employers in the UK might not accept your credentials even if you completed your education in Poland. You may occasionally have to demonstrate that your diploma is on par with a British one.

You can use a service called UK ENIC for this. They verify and examine foreign credentials. You may occasionally need to take additional classes or exams. Therefore, it's wise to find out if your profession requires special approval before applying for a job. Later on, this will save you frustration and time.

Employment Contracts and Worker Rights

Once you find a job, understanding your employment contract is very important. UK work laws are a bit different from Polish ones. For example, some jobs offer "zero-hour contracts," which don’t guarantee any working hours. This means you might not always have steady income.

Sadly, some workers also face bad treatment, like unpaid wages or unfair dismissal. Therefore, you should know your worker rights in the UK. Groups like ACAS give free advice and can help if you have problems at work. It’s a good idea to read your contract carefully and ask questions before signing anything.

Residency and Family Reunification

If you plan to stay in the UK for a long time, you might want residency. At first, you will have a visa that links to your job. But after a few years, you can apply for settled status if you meet the requirements, like working legally and living in the UK for a certain time.

Also, many Polish workers want to bring their family members with them. This is possible, but there are strict rules. You need to prove that you earn enough to support them. You also need to show that you have a stable place to live. Because the process is slow, it’s smart to start the paperwork as soon as possible.

Social Benefits and Healthcare Access

Luckily, once you have a legal job, you can use the NHS for healthcare. You don’t have to pay extra for doctor visits or hospital care. Also, you might qualify for some social benefits, like child benefits if you have kids.

However, there are strict rules about benefits. If you apply for something you shouldn’t, it can cause big problems, including losing your visa. Therefore, always double-check the rules or ask for advice before you apply for any government help.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many Polish workers make the same mistakes. First, they think having a job offer is enough to stay in the UK. But without the right visa, you could be asked to leave. Second, they forget to renew their visa on time. Third, they trust bad employers who don't follow the law.

Therefore, always read all documents carefully, keep copies of everything, and know your rights. It’s also smart to stay updated, as immigration rules can change quickly.

Conclusion

In summary, Polish workers can still move to the UK in 2025, but it will be more difficult than it was previously. From obtaining a visa to defending your worker rights, there are numerous legal obstacles. However, you can prevent a lot of issues if you plan ahead and have the correct information.

Don't wait until it's too late if you have questions. Consult a lawyer, the Polish consulate, or immigrant assistance organisations for assistance. You can avoid a lot of problems later by being a little prepared now.