Bulgaria raises 2026 pensions by 7.8% and ends COVID supplement

The Bulgarian government approved a budget law that will raise the average pension to €543.46 in 2026, with a real increase of about 4.5% after accounting for an estimated 4.3% inflation rate. From 1 July 2026 all earned pensions will be adjusted under the “Swiss rule” by 7.8%, increasing the minimum basic pension for full‑career retirees from €322.37 to €347.51 and applying the same percentage to survivor and disability benefits. The reform also eliminates the €30.68 “COVID‑add‑on” previously added to pension payments.

Social old‑age pension benefits will rise by €183.81, and the total budget allocation for all pensions and related supplements is €13.5 billion – 10.8% of projected GDP. Additional measures include a rise in the minimum pension to 467 lev and a maximum of 2 000 lev, and a schedule for July payouts through postal stations and banks.

The changes affect all pensioners receiving benefits for work‑related pensions, survivor allowances, and social old‑age pensions, with the updated amounts becoming payable from 7 July 2026.