Employment Brief: Poland launches pilot to test reduced working time models

Poland has officially published the details of a pilot programme aimed at exploring models of reduced working time. The initiative, announced by the Ministry of Labour, will run throughout 2026. It is open to employers that have been operating for at least 12 months and whose workforce is made up of at least 75 percent employees hired under employment contracts.

Under the programme, participating employers will be able to test various work time models, including shorter working weeks, reduced daily hours or additional paid time off. To qualify, companies must involve at least 50 percent of their workforce and commit to maintaining a minimum of 90 percent of their initial employment level for the duration of the pilot. Crucially, employees’ pay and working conditions must not worsen during participation in the programme.

Employers selected for the programme may receive public funding of up to PLN 1 million per project, with a cap of PLN 20,000 per employee. The programme is intended to demonstrate the potential benefits of reduced working time arrangements, such as improved employee well-being and productivity. The programme application window runs from 14 August to 15 September 2025.