PIP Launches Crackdown on Contract Abuse as Employers Preemptively Convert Agreements

The National Labour Inspectorate (PIP) has initiated inspections following 70 complaints in three days, as businesses begin converting B2B and civil-law contracts into standard employment agreements to avoid severe regulatory sanctions.

New Enforcement Rules in Effect

New powers granted to the National Labour Inspectorate (PIP) took effect on July 8, 2026. Within the first three days, the agency received approximately 70 complaints regarding the replacement of standard employment contracts with civil-law or B2B agreements. While 70 complaints may seem modest, the Chief Labour Inspector views this as a clear signal that employees are utilizing new legal avenues to address misclassification.

The Inspection Procedure

The filing of a complaint does not trigger an automatic inspection; the PIP first verifies the completeness of the submission and the legal grounds for intervention. Following a two-stage model, if an inspector determines the work conditions mirror a standard employment relationship, the first step is to issue an order to correct the violation. If an employer complies, the proceedings may conclude immediately.

Criteria for Employment Reclassification

Inspectors assess the actual nature of work rather than the contract’s title. Key indicators include whether duties are performed under the employer’s direct supervision, at a specified time and location, and if the worker is obligated to perform tasks personally. These elements, derived from Article 22 of the Labour Code, are critical in determining if an employment contract should be in place.

Proactive Corporate Adjustments

Minister of Family, Labour, and Social Policy Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk reports that some employers are preemptively analyzing and converting contracts before inspectors arrive. This shift is driven by significant new penalties, which can reach 60,000 PLN, or up to 90,000 PLN for repeat offenses. The Ministry emphasizes that the goal is to align employment forms with the actual conditions of work rather than eliminating B2B or civil-law contracts entirely.

Ongoing Monitoring and Data Collection

The PIP will track trends across the country, with reports from 16 regional inspectorates expected weekly. A broader summary of the new regulations’ impact is scheduled for release after two to three months. Employees who believe their B2B or civil-law contracts hide an employment relationship are encouraged to file a complaint, with the option to maintain confidentiality throughout the process.