Minimum Wage Set for Increase in 2026, But Amount Remains in Dispute
WARSAW - Poland‘s minimum wage is slated to increase on January 1, 2026, but the final amount remains contested between trade unions and employer organizations, with the government expected to make a final decision by mid-September. The disagreement centers on whether the increase will be a modest inflationary adjustment or a more considerable raise reflecting recent years’ double-digit growth.
Currently, trade unions are pushing for a minimum wage of at least PLN 5,015 (approximately $1,238 USD), representing a 7.48% increase and a raise of over PLN 250. This demand extends to a minimum wage up to PLN 5,015.Employer organizations, including BCC, Lewiatan confederation, Employers of the republic of Poland, PTG, ZPP, and ZRP, advocate for an increase limited to PLN 50, resulting in a maximum wage of PLN 4,716. The government has initially proposed an increase aligning with inflation, resulting in a minimum wage of PLN 4,806.
The dispute highlights a fundamental disagreement over the pace of wage growth. Employers have expressed concern that larger increases would significantly raise business costs, while unions point to the substantial increases seen in recent years as a benchmark. The Social Dialog Council failed to reach a unified position on the matter, with employers expressing satisfaction with the government’s initial proposal and unions deeming a 3% increase insufficient.
The ultimate decision rests with the Council of Ministers, wich is expected to announce the final minimum wage amount in the first half of September. Past experience suggests the government may adjust its proposal based on further negotiations or arguments presented by either side, historically resulting in upward revisions.