The National Social Security Institute (NSI) is undertaking large-scale transformations in the social security system, with a focus on gradually adapting pension mechanisms to modern challenges.
In an exclusive interview, the new director Vesela Karaivanova outlined the main priorities of the institution, emphasizing the need to maintain achieved results while introducing innovative approaches.
A key point in the NSI strategy is the smooth increase of retirement age. According to current calculations, by 2027 the insurance length for women will reach 37 years, and for men - 40 years. Complete equalization of age is planned for 2037, when it will be 65 years for both genders.
Karaivanova stressed that the rates of increase must be carefully balanced, taking into account the current life expectancy and material situation of elderly people. Special attention will be paid to workers in the third labor category.
Another significant aspect of the reform is reviewing the maximum pension amount. According to expert calculations, complete removal of the pension ceiling would cost around 5.2 million leva monthly. An alternative option is increasing the ceiling from 3400 to 3600 leva, which would affect about 3000 pensioners.
The institute is betting on digitalization as the main tool for improving services. The Unified Portal introduced in March consolidates all electronic platforms, providing comprehensive service through various electronic identification methods.
Among NSI's priorities is the upcoming euro introduction. Karaivanova reassured pensioners that no additional documents are necessary - recalculation will be done automatically at the fixed rate of 1.95583 leva per euro.
The institute is working on expanding service access channels, planning to create mobile teams and improve reception work. Special emphasis will be placed on servicing elderly people and residents of remote areas.
NSI experts are preparing a Roadmap for improving the pension system in collaboration with the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy, Ministry of Finance, and other state institutions.
A key point in the strategy is increasing public trust through transparency, professionalism, and care for insured persons. NSI aims to be not just an administrative body, but a modern, customer-oriented organization.
The upcoming changes demonstrate a comprehensive approach to social security, which takes into account demographic trends, economic realities, and the needs of different age groups.