Information
Key figures for 2024
- Inspections: 49,858
- Undertakings inspected: 41,863
- Violations identified: 202,810
- Reports drawn up (administrative offence reports): 10,217
- Total value of penalties (penal decrees and settlements): over BGN 15.7 million
Most common groups of violations
Employment relationships (largest share of violations)
- no employment contract
- work without notification to the NRA
- unpaid or delayed wages
- breaches of working time and rest rules
- about 40–45% of all violations
Healthy and safe working conditions (OSH)
- no risk assessment
- unguarded machinery and equipment
- no safety briefing
- work without personal protective equipment
- about 30–35% of violations
Working time, leave and rest
- failure to observe daily and weekly rest
- overtime without legal grounds
- no schedules
- about 10–15%
Collective labour rights and social dialogue
- breaches of trade union rights
- failure to implement collective agreements
- smaller share (under 5%)
What penalties are most often imposed?
Typical amounts under the Labour Code:
- for work without an employment contract: BGN 1,500 – 15,000
- for OSH violations: BGN 1,000 – 10,000
- for repeat offences: up to BGN 20,000 – 30,000
The total of BGN 15.7 million includes:
- fines
- property penalties
- settlements
- final penal decrees
Sectors with the most violations
Highest-risk industries:
- Construction
- Trade
- Hotels and restaurants
- Agriculture
- Manufacturing
Together they account for over 60% of all violations identified.
Focus of inspection activity: in 2024 the General Labour Inspectorate emphasised:
- combating the informal economy
- undeclared work
- occupational accidents
- workplace safety
- protection of young and seasonal workers
Overall this reflects stronger enforcement and systemic issues with compliance with labour law in some sectors.