site.btaSome 70% of Over-55s Employed, Jobless Rate at Record Low

People aged 55 to 64 are considered "vulnerable" on the labour market, yet in practice this group has the lowest unemployment rate, with 71% currently in employment, Deputy Labour and Social Policy Minister Natalia Efremova said at the Young Talents 50+ forum, which opened in Sofia on Thursday. This year's theme of the initiative is "Beyond Age: The Power of Talent".

Efremova highlighted that people aged over 55 are well aware of their professional strengths and have sufficient experience to be valuable in the workplace. They are also capable of changing roles and successfully meeting all challenges, including starting their own businesses, she added.

Efremova cited a study by the Bulgarian Industrial Association showing that people in this age group are not afraid of new technologies, either at work or in their personal lives. It is a myth that this generation struggles with or is unwilling to embrace innovation, she said.

Employers should be aware that the state provides targeted measures to encourage the hiring of older workers, both through budget funding and European programmes, Efremova also said. The Employment Agency offers free courses in digital skills.

"Our training programmes are entirely free," the Deputy Minister said, urging people who register with labour offices to explore these opportunities.

In 2025, the I Choose Bulgaria initiative was launched to support the return of Bulgarian citizens and their families, offering relocation assistance, rental support and incentives for finding employment, Efremova said. The programme was initially expected to cover around 1,000 people, but more than 4,000 applications were submitted within six months. Around 3,500 applicants have been approved, including people aged over 50, and are already working in Bulgaria, she said. She wished them a swift adjustment, stressing that those returning are highly motivated to live in Bulgaria again.