Bulgarian Labor Law for English-Speakers

Free, accurate calculators and explanations of Bulgarian labor and tax rules — written for foreign employees, expats, HR professionals abroad and freelancers working with Bulgarian companies.

✓ Updated for 2026✓ No registration✓ Based on the Labor Code & Social Insurance Code

For Employees

Employee

For Freelancers & Ltd. Owners

Self-insured

Labor Rights — Plain Explanations

More than just numbers — understand your rights with clear explanations in English.

📖 Glossary

All Bulgarian labor-law terms explained in English.

🆘 What to do if…

Step-by-step guides for common employment situations.

📝 Templates

Ready-to-use notice letters and complaint forms.

Bulgarian Labor Law — A Quick Overview for 2026

Employment in Bulgaria is governed primarily by the Labor Code (Кодекс на труда / „КТ"). The Code regulates the rights and duties of employees and employers — from contract conclusion to termination, including breaks, leaves, compensation and working hours.

Every employee in Bulgaria has the right to a minimum of 20 working days of paid annual leave (Art. 155 LC), compensation during illness (sick leave), maternity benefits, and several other social rights. Upon termination of the employment contract by the employer, the employee is entitled to a notice period or compensation in lieu.

For 2026, the minimum monthly wage is BGN 1,077 (≈ EUR 551). Employee social insurance contributions are 13.78% in total, employer contributions 18.52–19.22%, both calculated on insurance income up to a cap of BGN 4,130. Personal income tax is a flat 10%.