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Terminating a temp work contract in Poland — notice periods and rights

How to legally end a temporary work contract in Poland? Notice periods, employment certificate, ZUS deregistration — a practical guide for foreign workers.

Working temporarily through a staffing agency in Poland and wondering how to end your employment? Whether you want to change jobs, return home, or simply finish your contract — you have the right to do so in a clearly defined way. This guide explains how much notice you need to give and what steps to follow.

Temporary employment contract (umowa o pracę tymczasową) — notice periods

If you work under a temporary employment contract (umowa o pracę tymczasową) with a staffing agency such as Nexflow, the Polish Temporary Employment Act of 9 July 2003 applies. Notice periods are shorter than for regular employment:

  • Contract up to 2 weeks — 3 working days notice
  • Contract from 2 weeks to 3 months — 1 week notice
  • Contract over 3 months — 2 weeks notice

Either the worker or the agency can give notice. Always do so in writing — keep a copy with proof of delivery.

Civil law contract (umowa zlecenie) — is notice required?

If you work under a civil law contract (umowa zlecenie), the situation is different. Under Article 746 § 2 of the Polish Civil Code, you may terminate the contract at any time. However:

  • If the contract is paid and you terminate it without good reason, you may be liable to compensate the agency for losses incurred
  • Check your contract — it may include specific notice terms

How to give notice

  1. Write a resignation notice in writing (the agency can provide a template)
  2. Include the date and your signature
  3. Submit it in person at the agency or send by registered post with delivery confirmation
  4. Ask for written acknowledgement of receipt

You are not legally required to give a reason for resigning from a temporary employment contract.

What happens after the contract ends?

  • Employment certificate (świadectwo pracy) — the agency must issue this without you requesting it, within 7 days of the contract ending
  • ZUS deregistration — the agency will submit a deregistration form (ZWUA). You still have 30 days of free access to NFZ healthcare after the contract ends
  • Unused holiday — if you have unused annual leave, you are entitled to a cash payment (ekwiwalent) instead
  • Final pay — wages for all hours worked must be paid by the normal payday

What if the agency terminates your contract?

The agency can terminate your contract by giving the same notice periods. If the user employer (the company you are assigned to) ends the assignment before the agreed end date, the agency should try to find you another assignment or pay your wages for the remaining period.

How Nexflow helps

At Nexflow, we make sure every worker understands their rights. If you want to end your assignment or have questions about your contract — contact us directly. We will help you handle all the formalities correctly and in compliance with Polish law.

Looking for work abroad?

Nexflow handles everything for temporary workers — from documents to payroll.

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