Working at night involves greater health and social risks, which is why the legislator requires financial compensation. Allowances for night work are intended to protect employees and motivate them to work in more difficult conditions.
See also: 100 thousand Poles can gain PLN 2,600 per month. Will it be possible in 2026?
Minimum wage 2026. Benefits are also increasing
From January 1, 2026, the minimum wage has increased, which is good news for approximately 3 million people who receive higher wages as a result. From January 2026, the minimum wage increased by PLN 140 gross and amounts to PLN 4,806. The increase also means changes in the amount of ZUS contributions, severance pay and allowances for night work.
The text continues below the video
Higher salaries mean greater expenses for companies, which may translate into prices of services and products.
Night allowance 2026. What hours does it count?
As the “Entrepreneur's Guide” reminds us, night time is eight consecutive hours between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m., designated by the employer and specified in the regulations. A night worker is a person who works at least three hours at night or 1/4 of the working time at night. They cannot work at night, among others. pregnant women, guardians of children up to eight years old without consent, minors and disabled people (with exceptions).
See also: The widow's pension will be higher. Seniors will gain even several hundred zlotys more
How much is the allowance for night work and how to calculate it?
According to the regulations, the minimum allowance for night work is 20%. hourly rate from the minimum wage. In 2026, with the minimum wage of PLN 4,806, in months with 160 working hours the allowance is PLN 6.01 gross per hour, and in months with more hours – less. The allowance is paid for each minute worked at night and is not included in the minimum wage.
As the “Entrepreneur's Guide” explains, employees who permanently work outside the company at night may receive a lump sum that should correspond to the expected number of hours of work at night. A night allowance is also available for overtime hours – then the employee receives both a night allowance and an overtime allowance.
