On the night of Saturday, March 29, to Sunday, March 30, 2025, the clocks will spring forward by one hour, marking the switch from standard time (winter time) to daylight saving time (summer time). While this transition affects daily routines, it also has legal and financial implications for employees, especially those working night shifts.

How does the time change affect work hours?

For employees scheduled to work the night shift from March 29 to March 30, 2025, the change means their shift will be one hour shorter than usual, but this does not result in a lower salary. According to labor laws, employees must be paid as if they worked their full shift, even if the actual working hours are reduced due to the time change. This is based on Article 81 of the Labor Code, which ensures workers receive full wages even when external factors, such as clock changes, reduce their hours. 

For example, a worker scheduled from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM typically works 8 hours. However, due to the time change, they will only work 7 hours—but will still be paid for 8 hours as per legal requirements. 

Night shift pay and wage adjustments in 2025 

For those working night shifts, an additional night work allowance applies. The amount of this allowance is directly linked to minimum wage levels, which increase annually. 

As of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage in Poland is set at 4,666 PLN gross. The night work allowance is calculated as 20% of the hourly rate derived from the minimum wage. 

Health impacts of night shifts and time changes 

Working night shifts already presents health risks, including fatigue, sleep disorders, and an increased risk of chronic diseases. The time change can exacerbate these effects, as it disrupts the body’s natural circadian rhythm. 

European labor regulations, including Directive 2003/88/EC on working time organization, highlight the need for limiting night work and ensuring protective measures for workers. Employers in Poland are obligated to: 
– report night work schedules to labor authorities,
– provide regular medical check-ups for night shift employees, 
– implement strategies to minimize health risks.

Key takeaways

• If the employee’s shift is shortened due to the March time change, they must still receive full pay. 
• If employee works a night shift, they are entitled to a night shift allowance.
• Employers are legally required to ensure health protection for night shift workers. 

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Text based on: Inforlex