No work on the 12th of November?

The ruling Law and Justice party (PiS) came up with an unexpected idea. They want to allow Polish people to commemorate the centennial of Poland’s independence a day longer. While the 11^th of November, the Independence Day in Poland, this year falls on a Sunday, the lawmakers intend to make the 12^th day of the month be a free as well this year. The legislative work is under way.

The speed at which the new law is being introduced is staggering. The bill making the second Monday of November no work or school day saw the light of day on the 22^nd of October, mere fourteen days before the date in question. 48 hours later it was passed by Sejm, the lower chamber of Polish parliament. On 26^th of October the bill landed in the Senate.

As the Senators introduced some amendments to the bill, the document needs to go back to Sejm and be voted on once again. This will most likely happen on the 7^th of November. The final step is the president’s signature. But is there enough time?

Although everyone likes the idea of having a day off, there has been an enormous wave of criticism surrounding the ruling party’s idea. Business owners cry there are already numerous bank holidays throughout the year (there are actually 13 of them). Economy experts say that another fee day means enormous losses to the economy. Parents of schoolchildren are not sure what to do with their offspring as educational facilities will be closed. Most importantly, numerous operations and court hearings that will need to be postponed. Many people are not pleased.

The government is being criticised for introducing hasty changes to the law without thinking about the consequences. Time will tell if the idea will bring them more supporters or opponents.

Implications for Banking and Business

Developments in the Polish banking sector affect businesses operating in the country in several ways. Access to corporate banking services, credit availability, deposit rates, and payment infrastructure are all critical factors for companies — whether established Polish firms or foreign-owned entities entering the market.

For foreign entrepreneurs setting up operations in Poland, choosing the right banking partner is a strategic decision. Major Polish banks including mBank, ING Bank Śląski, Bank Millennium, PKO BP, and Santander Poland offer varying levels of service for international clients, including English-language online banking, multicurrency accounts, and dedicated relationship managers for corporate clients.

The Polish banking market is well-regulated by the KNF (Financial Supervision Authority) and participates in the EU deposit guarantee scheme (BFG — Bank Guarantee Fund), providing deposit protection up to EUR 100,000 per depositor per institution. This regulatory framework provides stability and confidence for businesses maintaining corporate funds in Polish banks.

If you are doing business in Poland or considering entering the Polish market, Zalewski Consulting can help. Learn more about our bank account opening services, or contact us for a free consultation.