If you are thinking about going abroad for work and wondering if an employment agency can charge a fee for finding a job, this article is for you. Nowadays, many job seekers use the services of employment agencies. However, before deciding to work with one, it is worth knowing the rules and pitfalls that may await you when signing a contract.
Employment Agency – Does It Charge Fees?
Rules Regarding Employment Agency Fees
Can an employment agency charge a fee from the employee for finding a job? The answer to this question is not straightforward. In Poland, employment agencies cannot charge a fee from the employee for finding a job. It is the employer who pays the agency for recruitment services. Otherwise, if the agency demands fees for merely finding a job, you might be dealing with an unscrupulous intermediary.
Fees Related to the Recruitment Process
Employment agencies may charge fees related to the costs incurred during the recruitment process. Examples of such costs include:
- Travel costs to the workplace,
- Visa issuance costs,
- Medical examination costs,
- Document translation costs.
If the agency tries to charge fees for these services, make sure they are clearly described in the contract. Compare these fees with other agencies to ensure they are reasonable and adequate.
How Not to Be Deceived When Signing a Contract with an Employment Agency?
What Should an Employment Contract Contain?
A contract with an employment agency is a key document that should be thoroughly reviewed before signing. Here is what it should contain:
- Complete Agency Information – The name, address, and contact number of the agency should be included in the contract. This will allow you to verify the agency’s credibility.
- Foreign Employer Details – The contract should include information about the foreign employer, including their name and address.
- Employment Period and Conditions – The contract should specify the duration, type of work, employment conditions, and remuneration.
- Social Benefits and Insurance – The contract should specify the social benefits and insurance provided.
- Scope of Duties and Rights – It is important that the contract contains detailed information on the responsibilities of both the employee and the agency.
- Costs and Liability – The contract should specify who bears the costs related to travel, accommodation, and what the liability conditions are in case of non-performance of the contract.
How to Verify the Credibility of an Employment Agency?
Before signing a contract, it is worth checking whether the agency is credible. Here are some steps that can help:
- Check Contact Details – Make sure the agency has complete contact details, including the office address and landline number.
- Verify Business Activity – Check if the agency is registered in the appropriate registers, such as the business activity register or the National Court Register.
- Reviews and Recommendations – Look for reviews of the agency online. Online forums and review sites can be helpful, but be cautious as some reviews may be false.
- Get References – Ask the agency for references from people who have already used its services. You can also contact people who have worked abroad through the agency.
Traps in Contracts with Employment Agencies
- Excessive Fees – Beware of agencies that demand disproportionately high fees for their services. Fees should be adequate to the actual costs incurred by the agency.
- Advance Payments and Deposits – Employment agencies cannot require advance payments, deposits, or fees related to renting an apartment before departure. If an agency demands such payments, it may be a sign of fraud.
- No Contract – If the agency does not offer a written contract or the contract is incomplete, it may be a warning sign. The contract should be clear and precise.
Employment Agency Fees – What Do You Need to Know?
Typical Fees Related to Agency Services
Although employment agencies in Poland cannot charge fees for finding a job, they may charge fees for additional services. Here are some examples:
- Travel Costs – If the agency organizes transportation to the workplace, they may charge a fee for this cost.
- Visa and Medical Costs – In the case of work abroad, the agency may charge fees for obtaining a visa and medical examinations.
What Fees Are Prohibited?
- Fees for Finding a Job – The agency cannot charge fees for simply finding a job. It is the employer who should pay the agency for recruitment services.
- Accommodation Fees – The agency cannot require advance payment for accommodation that has not yet been provided by the employer.
Summary
When using the services of an employment agency, it is important to be well informed about your rights and obligations. Make sure the agency is reliable and transparent in its actions. Carefully review the contract before signing and do not let unscrupulous intermediaries deceive you.
Always remember that a good intermediary is one that acts in accordance with the law and in the best interest of its clients. If you have doubts about an agency, seek opinions from others or consult an expert. This way you will avoid unnecessary problems and ensure safe and favorable working conditions abroad.
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