site.btaGeneral Labor Inspectorate Records Increase in Permits Granted to Minors in January-May 2025, Y/Y

The General Labor Inspectorate (GLI) Executive Agency released data Thursday, showing an increase in permits granted to minors to begin work this year. In the first five months of the year, 5,212 permits were issued, compared with 4,240 in the same period last year. Most permits were granted in the regions of Burgas, Sofia and Varna. A total of 16,808 permits were granted for the whole of 2024 - also an increase compared to 2023.

On the occasion of the World Day against Child Labour, the GIT reminds that employing minors without permission from the supervisory authority is considered a criminal offence. The Bulgarian legislation prohibits work under the age of 16. This is also the compulsory age for education according to the Constitution. Exceptions are allowed for starting work at a younger age, but these are mainly for talented children, for their inclusion in film productions, theatre troupes, musical ensembles, etc.

Most often minors are employed to carry out activities in the hotel, restaurant and trade sectors during the summer holidays.