Poland introduces conditions for the employment of doctors from Ukraine: details

Poland, which has long established itself as a country with a hospitable and supportive attitude towards Ukrainian migrants, is now introducing new conditions for the employment of Ukrainian doctors. These changes are not only a response to modern challenges, but also a step towards strengthening the national medical system, which strives to meet dynamically developing international standards. The introduction of such rules is due to Poland's desire not only to guarantee a high level of qualification of medical specialists, but also to ensure the safety and quality of services provided to its citizens.

These changes also emphasize Poland's desire to maintain a balance between creating opportunities for foreign specialists and protecting the interests of local citizens. The importance of this balance is to ensure that the integration of migrants does not occur to the detriment of Polish doctors and patients, but through cooperation and mutual support.

How will working conditions for Ukrainian doctors in Poland change?

New rules will come into force in Poland in the fall of 2024, which will radically change the employment conditions for doctors. Now, medical specialists from Ukraine will have to meet stricter requirements.

One of the key ones will be the mandatory provision of a certificate confirming proficiency in Polish at level B1 or higher. This condition must be met by mid-spring 2026. Polish authorities emphasize that knowledge of the language at the proper level is extremely important for effective communication between doctors and patients, since previously the language barrier often interfered with high-quality work and caused misunderstandings.

Previously, Ukrainian medical workers could find employment on the basis of temporary rights, which were issued for a period of five years. However, as this period expires, in order to continue their professional activities, they will not only need to confirm their knowledge of the Polish language, but also go through the process of recognizing their qualifications in accordance with Polish standards.

These measures are aimed at improving the quality of medical services and ensuring the professional integration of foreign specialists into the Polish healthcare system.

Polish language certificate: a new barrier or an opportunity?

A certificate certifying the level of knowledge of the Polish language has become a mandatory requirement for Ukrainian doctors wishing to work in Poland. For some, this may seem like a barrier complicating the employment process, while for others, it may seem like a chance to become a full-fledged participant in the Polish healthcare system. However, the absence of this document may lead to serious consequences.

According to current laws, the employer is obliged to check the qualifications of medical personnel. Without official permission confirming the right to practice medicine, a specialist faces not only administrative liability, but also criminal measures, including imprisonment. In addition, fines may be imposed on the employer, which makes the situation even more complicated.

These rules create additional pressure on Ukrainian specialists, especially in conditions where the process of preparing documents and recognizing qualifications requires time and resources. For those who fail to provide a certificate before the deadline, the doors of Polish medicine may close, which will jeopardize not only their professional plans, but also the possibility of career growth abroad.

However, having a certificate also opens up significant prospects. Knowledge of Polish at level B1 and above allows not only to work without restrictions, but also to interact more effectively with patients, colleagues and employers.

Overcoming the language barrier is a challenge, but also an opportunity for Ukrainian doctors to demonstrate their abilities, reach a new level and take advantage of working in the European medical system.

Read also: Medical care for Ukrainians in Poland: how to make an appointment with a doctor