Polish law provides six key privileges for employees with disabilities in 2024/2025, including reduced hours and additional benefits.
Key Principles of Employment for People with Disabilities
According to Polish law, every employee has the right to equal treatment. However, the degree of disability (mild, moderate, or significant) determines additional benefits and protections. It is worth noting that individuals with moderate or significant disabilities can work for regular employers, provided that the position is properly adapted or the work is performed remotely.
Reduced Working Hours (7 Instead of 8)
For individuals with moderate and significant degrees of disability, the standard working hours are reduced. Instead of the standard 40 hours per week, they work 35 hours (7 hours daily). Most importantly, the salary remains unchanged despite the fewer hours worked.
Additional Vacation Leave (10 Days)
This is one of the most valued privileges. An employee with a disability certificate (moderate or significant degree) is entitled to an additional 10 working days of vacation per calendar year.
Prohibition of Night Work and Overtime
As a rule, a person with a disability cannot work overtime or during night hours.
Additional Break for Exercise or Rest
In addition to the standard “lunch break” (15 minutes), a disabled person is entitled to an additional 15 minutes of break, which is counted as working time. It can be used for health-promoting exercises or simply for rest.
Paid Leave for Rehabilitation (Up to 21 Days!)
Employees with moderate or significant degrees have the right to time off with pay for rehabilitation purposes, following workplace injury or occupational disease.
Workplace Adaptation
If an employee loses the ability to work in their current position due to a work accident or occupational disease, the employer is obligated to organize a properly equipped workplace with social facilities. The employer has 3 months from the employee’s declaration of readiness to comply.
