Bulgarians are hardworking, educated people. They take well to foreigners entering their country and are very accepting of foreign business partners and colleagues. Many Bulgarians work during their studies and work in their given career choice after college. Some also work more than one job.

Working Hours in Bulgaria

A standard workweek in Bulgaria is 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. Hours can be extended passed 40 hours for overtime if approved by employer since many employees are interested in additional income.

The workday starts at 8 or 8:30 a.m. and ends at 5 or 5:30 a.m. Daily lunch are permitted. Night work is described as work between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

Wages in Bulgaria

The minimum wage in Bulgaria is 260.80 Euro per month.  The average salary in Bulgaria is 400 Euro a month whereas in Sofia it can be up to 550 Euro a month.

Bulgarian salaries usually must be paid in Bulgarian currency, but can be paid in foreign currency if there has been prior written agreement between you and your employer.

Salaries must be paid at least once a month, but are usually paid on a bi-weekly schedule.

Work Contacts in Bulgaria

An employment contract is an agreement between the employee and their employer on the work conditions and work performance expectations.

The contract must include the identity of both parties, the place of work, job title and description, term of the contract and the duration of probation period, the amount of basic and extended pay and paid holidays, an equal termination period for both parties, the conclusion date contact, duration of work week, and basic remuneration and supplementary remuneration. The contract may include other clauses depending on the employer.

The contract should be made in writing and signed in person.

Termination of Employment in Bulgaria

It is best to give two-week's notice before leaving work, but a notice is not required. The employer has full right to fire an employee if there is a viable reason. However, any type of discrimination that influenced termination is not lawful in Bulgaria.

Employment in Bulgaria can be terminated for these reasons:

• Mutual consent
• Employment is voided by court
• Expiration of contact
• Completion of specific task
• Return on pregnant woman or person with reduced capacity returns to their position that was substitute.
• Illness or death

Time off in Bulgaria

The employee is entitled to regular leave in each calendar year in which he/she is employed. In addition to full-time employees, part-time and pension employees are also entitled to annual leave. Employees are given the right to no less than 20 paid days off.

It is suggested that you notify your employer several weeks in advance before taken a paid day off.

Public Holidays in Bulgaria

There are two different types of holidays that are recognized by employers: political and religious.

Holidays in Bulgaria

• Jan 1 – New Year's Day
• March 5 – Liberation Day (recognized)
• Date changes - Orthodox Good Friday
• Date changes – Orthodox Easter Sunday
• Date changes – Orthodox Easter Monday (recognized)
• May 1 – Labor Day
• May 6 – Saint George's Day/Army Day
• May 7 – Saint George's Day (recognized)
• May 24 – Culture and Literacy Day
• September 6 – Unification Day
• September 22 - Independence Day
• December 24 – Christmas Ever
• December 25 – Christmas
• December 26 – 2nd Day of Christmas

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