Can a person under 18 work?
Yes — but only with a labour inspectorate permit, and one for each individual case. Employing anyone under 18 requires a prior permit: under art. 302 of the Labour Code for those under 16, and under art. 303 for those aged 16 to 18. The employer files a written application with the regional labour inspectorate where the workplace is, and the decision arrives within 7 days. The application must include a job description, a risk assessment, health and safety measures and a medical certificate for taking up employment. The permit is specific — to this employer and this post; changing job means a new one. Working time is reduced — 35 hours a week, and paid annual leave is at least 26 working days.
📋 The rules
- A permit from the labour inspectorate is required
- Art. 302 — under 16; art. 303 — aged 16 to 18
- Decision within 7 days; the application is in writing
- The permit is specific to that employer and that post
- Working time 35 h a week; leave at least 26 days
🔓 Exceptions
- A medical certificate with examinations by several specialists is required
- Night work, overtime and hazardous activities are prohibited
- Changing employer or post requires a fresh permit
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Employing a minor without a permit breaches the Labour Code and is sanctioned by the labour inspectorate — a penalty on the employer and a separate fine on the responsible officer. Heavier still are assigning prohibited work, and night or overtime hours: after a workplace accident involving a minor who worked without a permit or in a prohibited role, the employer's liability is sharply aggravated, criminal liability included. For the young person the risk is different: working without papers means no pension service, no compensation after an accident, and no protection over unpaid wages.
📎 Official sources
- Labour Inspectorate · Work permits for young people →
- lex.bg · Labour Code (arts. 301–303) →
- Ministry of Labour · Employment legislation →
❓ Frequently asked
From what age can you work?
With a labour inspectorate permit — under art. 302 for those under 16, and under art. 303 for those aged 16 to 18. Without that permit the hiring is unlawful.
Who applies for the permit?
The employer, by written application to the regional labour inspectorate where the workplace is. The decision comes within 7 days of filing, or of any defects being put right.
What documents are needed?
A job description, a risk assessment, health and safety measures, and a medical certificate for taking up employment, with examinations by several specialists.
How many hours can a minor work?
Working time is reduced to 35 hours a week. Night work and overtime are prohibited, and paid annual leave is no less than 26 working days.
Does the permit cover any job?
No. It is specific to that employer and that post. Changing job or position means applying to the labour inspectorate for a fresh permit.
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