Recent developments in Bulgaria
We understand the challenges of keeping up with regulatory changes. That’s why we actively monitor these changes, so you don’t have to. Read on to discover what’s been happening in the employment landscape in Bulgaria.
Euro adoption (2026)
Bulgaria is set to join the euro area on 1 January 2026, with a fixed conversion rate of 1 EUR = 1.95583 BGN—a major payroll and contracting change for employers operating in Bulgaria.
Dual pricing & anti-price-hike controls around the changeover (2026)
Ahead of the euro switch, rules require dual display of prices (BGN/EUR) during the changeover timeline, and Bulgaria also adopted price-control/anti-profiteering measures linked to the transition, relevant for workforce cost planning and employee communications.
Minimum wage increase (2026)
As of 1 January 2026, the minimum monthly wage increases to BGN 1,213 and the minimum hourly wage to BGN 7.31, per the published decree setting the 2026 rates.
Higher pension social security contributions proposed/legislated (2026)
The Public Social Insurance Budget Bill for 2026 provides for a +2 percentage point increase in Pension Fund insurance contributions starting 1 January 2026 (with other fund rates remaining at 2025 levels under the bill).
Higher social security ceiling (2026)
The 2026 parameters include an increase to the maximum insurable income (referenced as EUR 2,300 in official budget discussions), impacting payroll cost calculations for higher earners.
