Poland will offer financial incentives of up to zł2403 per month to employers who hire individuals aged 50 and over, starting in 2026.
Funding for Hiring 50+ Workers in 2026: How it Works
Employers can receive funding towards the wages of unemployed individuals over the age of 50. The subsidy can cover up to half of the minimum wage. With a minimum wage of zł4806 gross in 2026, this translates to support of up to zł2403 per month per employee.
The subsidy also applies to individuals who have turned 60 (women) or 65 (men) while seeking employment.
Eligibility Requirements
A key condition is that the individual must not have been employed by the employer immediately before registering with the employment office. This prevents situations where employment is terminated solely to obtain funding.
Important Considerations
Funding is only available for individuals registered with the employment office as unemployed or seeking employment.
Support Duration and Employment Maintenance
The duration of support depends on the age and status of the employed person. For those over 60/65, funding can be granted repeatedly, operating on a bi-monthly cycle – one month of funding from the employment office, followed by one month of employer-funded employment, and so on, for the duration of the contract.
After the funding period ends, employers are obligated to maintain employment for a specified period. Failure to meet this requirement may result in the repayment of the received support, plus statutory interest.
Priority Access to Training for 50+ Workers
In addition to wage subsidies, individuals aged 50+ have priority access to training and internships, such as three-month programs within companies or certified courses. They can also benefit from career counseling and psychological support to facilitate their return to the labor market.
Legal Basis
Act of March 20, 2025, on the labor market and employment services.