Public Holidays in Poland 2025: A Guide for Businesses

Planning ahead is essential for businesses, especially when managing employee leave. Poland observes both nationwide public holidays and additional religious observances. This guide provides an overview of public holidays in Poland for 2025 and key employer responsibilities.

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Nationwide Public Holidays in Poland 2025

These holidays are officially recognized across the country:

• January 1 (Wednesday): New Year's Day (Nowy Rok)
• January 6 (Monday): Epiphany (Trzech Króli)
• April 20 (Sunday): Easter Sunday (Wielkanoc)
• April 21 (Monday): Easter Monday (Poniedziałek Wielkanocny)
• May 1 (Thursday): Labour Day (Święto Pracy)
• May 3 (Saturday): Constitution Day (Święto Konstytucji 3 Maja)
• June 8 (Sunday): Pentecost (Zielone Świątki)
• June 19 (Thursday): Corpus Christi (Boże Ciało)
• August 15 (Friday): Assumption of Mary & Polish Armed Forces Day (Wniebowzięcie Najświętszej Maryi Panny & Święto Wojska Polskiego)
• November 1 (Saturday): All Saints' Day (Wszystkich Świętych)
• November 11 (Tuesday): Independence Day (Narodowe Święto Niepodległości)
• December 25 (Thursday): Christmas Day (Boże Narodzenie)
• December 26 (Friday): Second Day of Christmas (Drugi dzień Bożego Narodzenia)

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Employee Rights on Public Holidays

• Public holidays in Poland are generally considered non-working days for most employees.
• Employees required to work on a public holiday are entitled to a day off in lieu or additional pay.
• Employees who work in essential services (e.g., healthcare, emergency services, transport) may be required to work but must be compensated accordingly.
• If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, there is no automatic substitution for another day off.
• If a public holiday falls on a Saturday, employees are entitled to an extra day off, as per Polish labor law.

Employer Responsibilities on Public Holidays

• Employers must comply with Polish labor law regarding employee leave on public holidays.
• Businesses that operate on public holidays (e.g., retail, hospitality, and essential services) must compensate employees appropriately.
• Employers should inform employees in advance about work schedules on public holidays.
• Companies must ensure fair scheduling to respect employee rest periods and prevent excessive workload.

Best Practices for Small Businesses

• Plan ahead: Ensure holiday schedules are arranged well in advance to prevent staffing issues.
• Use leave management tools: Digital solutions like TimeOff.Management help track employee leave efficiently.
• Offer flexibility: Allow employees to swap shifts or take compensatory time off when necessary.
• Communicate clearly: Keep employees informed about work schedules, leave policies, and any exceptions regarding public holidays.

By understanding public holiday regulations and implementing best practices, businesses in Poland can stay compliant while maintaining employee satisfaction.

Planning effectively for 2025 will help ensure a productive and well-organized year!

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