Minimum wage 2026 – how much will it be and what will change? New government decisions
The government has announced an official proposal regarding the minimum wage for 2026. This topic garners significant attention among both employees and employers, as it concerns millions of Poles and directly affects household budgets and the country's economic situation. In this article, we explain how much the minimum wage in 2026 will be, the projected net salary, and the potential changes that may impact the labor market in the coming months.
How Much Will the Minimum Wage Be in 2026?
According to the government's decision, starting January 1, 2026, the minimum monthly wage will be PLN 4,806 gross. This is an increase of PLN 140 compared to the 2025 rate of PLN 4,666 gross. The minimum hourly rate will also rise to PLN 31.40. The government proposal is currently under consultation within the Social Dialogue Council, where discussions are taking place with trade unions and employer organizations.
Proposals from Other Stakeholders
- Trade unions are advocating for an even higher amount – PLN 5,015 gross per month.
- Employers are more cautious, proposing an increase to PLN 4,716 gross.
Net Minimum Wage 2026 – How Much "Take-Home"?
One of the most frequently asked questions is: what will the net minimum wage be in 2026 – how much money will actually end up in an employee’s pocket after deductions? Assuming no changes in the tax system, a full-time employee will receive approximately PLN 3,605.85 net per month. This represents a real increase of about PLN 95 net compared to 2025, when the net minimum wage was PLN 3,510.92.
Detailed Breakdown:
What Changes Are Expected for the Minimum Wage in 2026?
In 2026, changes in how the minimum wage is calculated are also planned, following the implementation of EU Directive 2022/2041. The key provisions include:
- The minimum wage should constitute at least 55% of the national average wage.
- Bonuses, incentives, and awards will be excluded from the base salary.
- The ratio between the minimum and average wage will be evaluated annually.
These changes aim to increase transparency and fairness in the wage system and better protect those with the lowest incomes.
What Does the New Minimum Wage Mean for Employees and Employers?
The increase to PLN 4,806 gross represents a 3% rise compared to the previous year. Many experts and trade unionists believe this is insufficient given rising inflation and living costs. Employers, on the other hand, emphasize that too rapid an increase in the minimum wage could negatively impact small businesses and the job market.
Summary
According to the government’s proposal, the 2026 minimum wage will be PLN 4,806 gross, translating to approximately PLN 3,605.85 net for a full-time employee. The final decision will be made following consultations within the Social Dialogue Council. It is worth monitoring these developments closely, as changes to the minimum wage significantly affect the financial situation of millions of Poles and the country’s economy as a whole.
