Amendments to Polish law, effective April 14, 2026, will include blood donation days towards miners’ qualifying service for early retirement.
Changes for Miners and Blood Donors
New regulations are set to benefit miners who are also regular blood donors, ensuring they do not lose out when transitioning to early retirement. Days off received for blood donation will now be counted towards their qualifying service period.
Law Takes Effect April 14, 2026
The amendment to the Act on Pensions and Benefits from the Social Insurance Fund (Journal of Laws 2026, item 425) comes into force on April 14, 2026. The changes address a previous issue faced by honorary blood donors employed in the mining industry.
Previously, time off for blood donation was not included in the qualifying mining work period required for early retirement after 25 years of service. Miners had to make up these days before retiring.
Two Days Off Count Towards Service
The amendment expands the catalog of periods of mining work considered when determining eligibility for a mining pension after 25 years of underground work and full-time employment to include absences based on the Act of August 22, 1997, on Public Blood Service.
Blood Donation Leave Included
According to the regulation, honorary blood donors are entitled to two days off work for each donation. The legal change means these absences will be counted as periods of mining work, making it easier for blood donors working underground to meet the conditions for early retirement.
