Bulgaria’s minimum wage is set to rise to 1,213 leva (€620) from January 1, 2026, according to a draft regulation by the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy, now open for public discussion. The increase of 12.6% (136 leva) will benefit nearly 600,000 people. The hourly minimum will reach 7.31 leva (€3.74).
The measure will raise pay for about 456,700 full-time employees on the minimum wage, as well as 83,000 personal assistants caring for children and adults with disabilities, nearly 30,000 workers in state-funded social services, and all employees under state-financed employment programs, including foster families.
Minister Borislav Gutsanov has revived talks with employer and trade union organizations on creating a long-term mechanism for setting the minimum wage. Despite some progress, no consensus was reached, so the new level is set according to the Labor Code—at 50% of the average gross wage over the previous four quarters.
The increase aims to reduce in-work poverty, boost purchasing power, and support consumption among low-income groups, aligning with Bulgaria’s economic and labor market forecasts. The proposal will be reviewed by the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation before being submitted to the government for approval.
