As of January 1, 2018, the applicable minimum wage in Poland increased to PLN 2,100 gross. This translated into an increase in the national minimum wage by PLN 100. The applicable minimum hourly rate is also higher.

The Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Policy presented a proposal to increase the minimum wage. The changes were approved by the Council of Ministers. According to the regulation, as of January 1, 2018, the applicable minimum wage in the Polish labor market is PLN 2,100 gross, which is approximately PLN 1,530 net (“take-home”). Compared to 2017, the minimum wage increased by 5% – previously it was PLN 2,000 gross, or PLN 1,459.48 net. The minimum wage represents approximately 47% of the average wage in the national economy.

The hourly rate also increased at the beginning of the year and now stands at PLN 13.70 gross (PLN 11.14 take-home). Last year, it was PLN 13 gross. The minimum hourly rate applies to individuals employed under certain civil law contracts and those who are self-employed.

The minimum wage is the legally established (by the state) lowest permissible level of remuneration for work performed under an employment contract, defined as a rate or minimum wage for work over a specified number of hours (usually per month). The minimum wage is independent of the employee’s skill level and other remuneration components.