What is the newest issue of the employer newsletter about?

• Key HR law rulings in 2021

There were many interesting rulings in HR law handed down in 2021.

• 18 months of legal residence and right to work for Ukrainian citizens fleeing war

The President of the Republic of Poland has signed a special law regarding assistance for Ukrainian citizens. On its basis, Ukrainian citizens who entered Poland directly and legally from the territory of this country due to the war, starting from the 24th of February this year, will obtain the right to legal residence for 18 months counted from this date.

• Enlisting in the "International Legion" in Ukraine with the Minister’s permission 

Volunteers can apply to the military attachés of the Ukrainian embassies in the relevant countries. However, before enlisting in a foreign army or a foreign military organization, a Polish citizen should remember to obtain a prior consent of the Minister of Interior and Administration, who gives such consent after consulting the Minister of National Defence and the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

• Necessary reasonable accommodation for a disabled employee

An employer has a duty to make reasonable and necessary accommodations for a person with a disability to perform the job. As a rule, this involves the purchase of new equipment, orthopaedic items, provision of technical assistance, changes in the organization of working time or division of tasks.  

• Social distancing lifted, plexiglass, gloves and face masks remain

The obligation to wear masks if there is more than 1 person in the room remains - although the employer may lift this obligation.  The rule is effective for the time being until 31 March 2022.

• ZUS may reduce maternity benefit

The Social Security Institution (ZUS) has the right to challenge and reduce the social security assessment base. This results in reduction of the maternity benefit. However, one can challenge ZUS's decision.