Labour Code · Updated for 2026

Employment Law

We advise employers and employees on all aspects of employment legislation — from hiring and personnel management to resolving labour disputes and protection against dismissal.

Key Practice Areas
Legal support for employers and employees at every stage of the employment relationship
Who We Work With
We advise both sides of the employment relationship

For Employers Business

  • Drafting employment contracts and job descriptions
  • Internal workplace regulations
  • Lawful termination of contracts
  • Selection procedures (Art. 329 LC)
  • Collective bargaining agreements
  • Representation before the Labour Inspectorate during audits
  • Employment law due diligence in M&A
  • Posting of workers abroad

For Employees Protection

  • Challenging unlawful dismissal
  • Reinstatement at work
  • Claims for unpaid compensation and wages
  • Protection against disciplinary sanctions
  • Compensation for workplace accidents
  • Protection against discrimination and harassment
  • Advice on rights during redundancy
  • Court representation

Update: Changes to Employment Legislation 2025–2026

Unified electronic employment record from 1 June 2025 · Wages in euro from 1 January 2026 · New rules for remote work

Frequently Asked Questions

What notice period is required for dismissal in Bulgaria? +

For open-ended employment contracts, the minimum notice period is 30 days, unless a longer period (up to 3 months) is agreed in the contract. For fixed-term contracts, the notice period is 3 months but cannot exceed the remaining term.

Can an employer terminate a fixed-term contract early? +

An employer may only terminate a fixed-term contract early on the grounds specified in the Labour Code (e.g. disciplinary dismissal, redundancy). Unilateral termination without legal grounds is unlawful and subject to compensation.

What compensation is owed for workplace accidents? +

The employer bears strict (no-fault) liability for workplace accidents and must compensate all pecuniary and non-pecuniary damages. The National Social Security Institute pays temporary disability benefits at 90% of the insured income.

Are mass layoffs subject to special procedures? +

Yes, mass redundancies (10+ employees in companies with 20-99 staff, or 10%+ in companies with 100-299 staff) require the employer to consult with employee representatives and notify the Employment Agency at least 30 days in advance.

What are the maximum working hours in Bulgaria? +

Standard working time is 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week. Overtime is permitted only on grounds expressly listed in the Labour Code and is capped at 150 hours per year (extendable to 300 hours through a collective bargaining agreement).

Have a question about employment law?

Contact us for a free initial consultation — we respond within 48 hours.