For many companies, hiring people under 18 is a great way to fill staffing shortages, especially during the summer holiday season. Labor Code regulations protect young workers, and procedural errors can result in severe penalties during an inspection by the National Labor Inspectorate. How do you properly hire someone under 18? In today's article, we'll outline the key obligations of every employer.
Who is a juvenile worker?
Under the Labor Code, a minor is a person who is at least 15 years old but under 18. To legally work, such a person must meet two basic conditions:
a. have completed at least eight years of primary school,
b. present a medical certificate stating that the type of work does not pose a threat to his health.
It should be emphasized that a person who has not completed primary school and is under 15 years of age may be employed only for the purpose of vocational training in the form of training to perform a specific job.
Only "light work" - meaning what?
If a minor is employed for purposes other than vocational training, they may only be entrusted with light work. These tasks must not pose a threat to life or health, and must not impede the fulfillment of compulsory schooling. The employer is obligated to prepare a list of light work tasks applicable within their company. This document must be approved by an occupational health physician and the relevant National Labor Inspectorate (PIP).
Concluding a contract
An employment contract for vocational training is concluded for an indefinite period. An exception applies to light-duty employment, which is usually fixed-term. The contract is signed by the employer and the adolescent. If a parent or legal guardian deems the employment relationship contrary to the adolescent's best interests, they may terminate the contract with the consent of the guardianship court. The adolescent must undergo an initial medical examination before being hired, as well as periodic examinations and check-ups during employment.
Working time of a juvenile in the light of case law
A juvenile may not work more than 8 hours per day (6 hours for those under 16). Overtime is strictly prohibited, and a juvenile employee is entitled to a 14-hour daily rest period. However, for overtime work, a juvenile is entitled to remuneration plus a supplement calculated as for adult employees, or time off.
Moreover, if a young person's daily working time exceeds 4.5 hours, the employer must provide a break. This break is mandatory, included in working time, remunerated, and lasts for an uninterrupted 30 minutes. Both young people employed under a vocational training contract and those performing light work under a standard employment contract are entitled to a break.
Harsh penalties
Please note that an employer's violation of the regulations regarding working hours for minors may result in a fine ranging from PLN 2,000 to PLN 60,000. The amount of the fine depends in particular on the type and severity of the violations identified.
For this reason, the proper organization of employment for young workers requires special attention from employers. This primarily concerns compliance with regulations governing working hours for young people and ensuring appropriate and safe working conditions.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
The law is current as of August 21, 2026.
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