1. The First Question: Does the Candidate Already Have the "Right to Work"?

Before looking into visas, check if the candidate is already a resident. Many Polish nationals living in the UK have a legal status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).

• Settled Status: Given to those who lived in the UK for 5+ years by December 31, 2020. They have a permanent right to work.

• Pre-Settled Status: Given to those who arrived before the deadline but had lived here for less than 5 years. They also have the right to work but must eventually convert this to Settled Status.

How to verify: You do not need to see a physical passport or ID card for this. You should request a "Share Code" from the candidate and use the official Government website to verify their status online.

2. Hiring from Abroad or Recent Arrivals: The Points-Based System

If the candidate does not have status under the EUSS, they are treated the same as any other non-UK citizen. To hire them, your company will likely need to engage with the Skilled Worker Visa route.

The Sponsorship License

To hire someone via a visa, your company must hold a Sponsorship License.

• If you don't have one, you must apply to the Home Office.

• Once approved, you can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the Polish candidate.

Key Requirements for the Candidate:

To qualify for a visa in 2026, the role and the candidate must meet these criteria:

1. Skill Level: The job must be at a certain professional level (generally RQF level 3 or above).

2. Salary Threshold: The salary must meet the minimum requirement (which has increased significantly in recent years—ensure you check the 2026 updated thresholds for your specific SOC code).

3. English Proficiency: The candidate must prove they speak English to at least B1 level (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

3. Important Costs to Consider

Hiring via the visa route involves costs that did not exist for EU citizens before 2021:

• Immigration Skills Charge: A fee paid by the employer per year of the visa.

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Usually paid by the candidate (or reimbursed by the employer) to access the NHS.

• Visa Application Fees.

4. Why Polish Talent is Still Worth the Effort

Despite the paperwork, Polish professionals remain a vital part of the UK economy. Poland continues to produce high-level specialists in IT, Engineering, Construction, and Logistics. Many Polish nationals now also hold dual citizenship (Polish and British), which simplifies the process entirely.

Summary Checklist for 2026:

1. Ask for a Share Code: Check if they have Settled/Pre-Settled status.

2. Check your License: Do you have a valid Sponsorship License?

3. Review the Salary: Does the offer meet the current 2026 Skilled Worker thresholds?

4. Verify Qualifications: Ensure the Polish degree or certification is recognized in the UK (via Ecctis if necessary).

Note: Immigration rules are subject to frequent changes. Always consult the latest GOV.UK guidance or an immigration lawyer before finalizing a contract.