Avoid Job Scams in Poland: How to Check an Employer or Agency
Fake job offers in Poland are common. Learn how to check an employer or agency, spot red flags and why you should never pay for a job.
The safest way to avoid job scams in Poland is simple: check that the company really exists (full name, address and NIP tax number), never pay for a job or a work permit, and never start work without a written contract in a language you understand. Job placement is free for candidates, and only Polish authorities can issue permits or visas.
Key takeaways
- A real employer or agency gives you full company details: name, address and NIP (tax number).
- Job placement is free for candidates – charging you for it is illegal.
- Work permit and declaration fees are paid by the employer, not by you.
- Nobody can guarantee a visa – only the consulate decides.
- Keep your passport with you; an employer has no right to hold it.
How to check an employer or agency – step by step
- Ask for the full company name, office address and NIP (tax number).
- Check by NIP or name in the public company registers: CEIDG (sole traders) or KRS (companies).
- Check that:
- the company is active,
- the name and address match what the recruiter told you.
- Compare the contact details on the official company website with the person writing to you.
- Ask for the contract in writing, in a language you understand, and read it before you sign.
If the company cannot be found, refuses to give its details, or the details do not match, do not continue.
Red flags – signs of a scam
| Red flag | Why it is dangerous |
|---|---|
| You must pay for a “job”, “contract” or “visa slot” | Job placement is free for candidates; charging for it is illegal |
| “Guaranteed visa” or “100% approval” | Only the consulate decides |
| Recruiter only on WhatsApp/Telegram, no company details | Impossible to verify |
| Pay far above normal for a simple job | Bait to collect payments |
| “Come on a tourist visa, we fix papers later” | Tourist visas never allow work |
| No written contract before start | Illegal work, no insurance |
| Employer wants to keep your passport | Illegal and a sign of exploitation |
| Pressure: “Pay today or lose the place” | Classic scam tactic |
| Documents with errors, strange logos or fake stamps | Possible forged permit |
Know the legal basics
Knowing a few facts makes scams easier to spot:
- Work permits are applied for by the employer only online through praca.gov.pl. The fee (200–800 zł) is paid by the employer. Read work permit in Poland 2026.
- Declarations (oświadczenie) are only for citizens of Armenia, Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine. If someone sells a declaration to a Georgian, Indian or Nepali citizen, it is not legal.
- Tourist (01) and visit (02) visas and visas from other Schengen countries do not allow work in Poland.
- The minimum wage in 2026 is 4,806 zł gross per month or 31.40 zł per hour.
- The employer must sign a written contract with you before you start, with a translation, and send a copy to the office.
How to verify a work permit
If you receive a work permit or declaration, ask the employer:
- for the case number and the office that issued it,
- to confirm details by phone using a number from the official company website.
You can also contact the voivodeship office or local labour office (PUP) that issued the document. Do not travel or pay anything until you are sure the document is real.
Safe practices before you travel
- Search the company name online together with words like “scam” or “opinion”.
- Ask for the draft contract before travelling and get it translated.
- Ask about accommodation costs and other deductions in writing.
- Never send money via crypto, gift cards or personal transfers to recruiters.
- Share your passport scan only with verified employers.
- Save all messages, emails and receipts.
If something goes wrong
- Stop paying immediately.
- Save evidence – screenshots, bank transfers, phone numbers.
- Report it to the police in Poland or in your country.
- Contact the National Labour Inspectorate (PIP – Państwowa Inspekcja Pracy) if you work in Poland without a contract or are not paid.
- Ask for advice from the government helpline Zielona Linia.
Choose transparent employers
A trustworthy employer or agency gives its full company name, NIP and office address, explains the contract clearly and does not take money from you. To understand the contract types you may be offered, see employment contracts in Poland. If you are planning your visa, read the Poland work visa guide.
Register safely
Already living in Poland with the right to work – for example a residence card, a work visa, UKR status or EU citizenship? Create your free profile and receive legal job offers from employers. Halo Praca is free for candidates and never asks you for payments. If you are still planning to come, read the Poland work visa guide and our legalization overview first, so you can recognise a fake offer.
FAQ
How do I check if a Polish employer or agency is legitimate?
Ask for the full company name, address and tax number (NIP), then check that the company really exists in the public company registers CEIDG or KRS. A legitimate company gives you a written contract in a language you understand and never asks you to pay for a job.
Should I pay an agency to get a job in Poland?
No. Employment agencies in Poland may not charge candidates for finding them a job. Fees for work permits and declarations are paid by the employer.
Is a job offer with a guaranteed visa real?
No one except the Polish consulate can decide on a visa. Offers that guarantee a visa in exchange for money are a strong sign of fraud.
What should I do if I was scammed?
Stop paying, keep all messages and payment confirmations, and report the case to the police. You can also contact the National Labour Inspectorate (PIP) or the government helpline Zielona Linia.
This article is for information purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws change – check the current rules on gov.pl.