A bridging pension 2025 (Polish: emerytura pomostowa), as in earlier years, is a type of early benefit for those who perform work in special or hazardous conditions. However, it is important to keep in mind that regulations have changed in recent years, opening up access to bridging pensions to new groups of workers. See who can apply for a bridging pension.
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What Is a Bridging Pension?
Bridging pensions were introduced by the Act of 19 December 2008. It was a form of support for workers performing harmful jobs that limited their ability to continue work.
This benefit is granted to individuals who have long performed:
- work in particularly difficult conditions (e.g., underground, underwater, in noisy environments), or
- work of a specific nature, requiring advanced physical and mental capabilities. For example, pilots, emergency vehicle drivers.
A bridging pension is a financial benefit paid by ZUS (Poland’s Social Insurance Institution) until the recipient qualifies for a regular old-age pension.
Who Qualifies for a Bridging Pension?
To qualify, all the following conditions must be met:
| Condition | Description |
| Date of birth | After 31 December 1948. |
| Type of work | At least 15 years of work under special conditions or of a specific nature. |
| Age | 55 for women, 60 for men |
| Work experience | At least 20 years (women) / 25 years (men) – includes both contributory and non-contributory periods. |
| Limit on non-contributory periods | Cannot exceed 1/3 of the contributory periods |
| Employment period | After 31 December 2008 – for roles listed in the Act |
| Form of employment | One must be employed under a full-time employment contract. |
As of 2024, it is no longer required to prove work in special conditions before 1 January 1999. This significantly expanded the group of people who qualify.
Work in Special Conditions or of a Specific Nature – What Does It Mean?
Work in Special Conditions
According to the regulations, this refers to work involving health risk factors which—despite protective measures — lead to a permanent decline in the body’s physical efficiency.
Examples:
- Work underground, underwater, or in the air
- Work in extreme heat or cold
- Very heavy physical work
- Work requiring forced body postures
Work of a Specific Nature
This includes jobs that require exceptional responsibility or psychophysical abilities. Usually, it is work where mistakes could endanger others’ health or lives.
Examples:
- Pilots, air traffic controllers
- Ambulance drivers, tram operators
- Nuclear reactor operators
- Public transport drivers
The full list of qualifying jobs is included in the Bridging Pensions Act.
How Is the Bridging Pension Funded?
Bridging pensions are financed by the Bridging Pension Fund (FEP in Poland). Employers are required to contribute to this fund if they hire individuals in qualifying roles.
Important:
- Contributions must be paid regardless of the employee’s age or experience.
- It does not matter whether the employment is temporary or permanent – the nature of the work is crucial.
More info about employers’ obligations: zus.pl – Bridging Pension Fund.
When Does the Right to a Bridging Pension End?
The right to a bridging pension ends:
- The day before the recipient becomes entitled to a standard old-age pension,
- Or on the day of death of the recipient.
Thus, the benefit is temporary. It is paid only until a proper pension (ZUS, KRUS, or others) comes into effect.
Bridging Pension 2025 – Summary
A bridging pension offers a favourable path to early retirement for those in demanding, hazardous, or high-responsibility roles. While the criteria are strict, recent legal changes have made access easier.
If you qualify, you should submit an EPOM application form to ZUS in Poland to claim your benefit.
Contact a Lawyer Before Applying to the Social Insurance Institution in Poland (ZUS).
If you’re considering applying for a bridging pension, consult a lawyer who specialises in social security law. We can help you to:
- Verify if your job is listed as eligible,
- Review your documentation,
- Prepare an effective EPOM application form.
Do not risk! Find professional support and secure your future. Contact us for help.
FAQ – Bridging Pension 2025
1. What is a bridging pension?
A benefit for individuals working in special conditions or performing specific work. It is paid before reaching standard retirement age.
2. Who can apply?
Those born after 31 December 1948, who meet the age, work type, and experience criteria.
3. How many years of work are needed?
At least 15 years in qualifying roles plus 20/25 years total experience (women/men).
4. Is an employment contract required?
Yes – only full-time employees under employment contracts qualify.
5. Were there legal changes in 2024?
Yes – the requirement of work in special conditions before 1999 was removed.
6. Is the benefit permanent?
No – it is only paid until the recipient becomes eligible for a standard pension.
7. What is the EPOM form?
The official application form for the bridging pension, submitted to ZUS in Poland.
8. Can you appeal a ZUS decision?
Yes – through the labour and social security court.
9. Who funds the bridging pensions?
The Bridging Pension Fund, financed by employer contributions.
10. Must all employers pay the FEP contribution?
Yes – if they hire individuals in special conditions, even part-time.