Working Conditions for Doctors and Teachers in Bulgaria in 2026: Salary Growth, Innovation and Social Incentives

In 2026, doctors and teachers in Bulgaria receive new opportunities for professional realization thanks to budgetary reforms and targeted investments. The basic salaries for nurses and doctors in children's and school institutions go over BGN 2,200 per month, and the average teacher's salary exceeds BGN 1,800, with growth varying between 12 and 18% compared to 2025.

A large-scale modernization is expected in education: over BGN 480 million are planned by 2026 for the creation of STEM classrooms and centers in all 2,240 schools in the country. Laboratories, high-tech classrooms and regional scientific complexes are introduced, which support the development of students and teachers.

Teachers already have a new national qualification program, partnerships with businesses and international training programs. The conditions in the universities are also being modernized – the trade unions want an additional BGN 218 million for salaries and social and domestic activities in higher education institutions in 2026.

In healthcare, social and professional incentives are expanded, and medical specialists get the opportunity for more flexible working hours and additional bonuses to their salary. New programs for specialization, renovation of the working environment and support for young doctors in the province are included.

The Ministry of Labor and Social Policy plans to expand the scope of assistance for students – over BGN 300 one-time support for the beginning of the school year in all grades from 1st to 8th, as well as growing funds for social assistance to families with children and working teachers.

"Investments in personnel are the key to quality in treatment and education," the trade unions emphasized. The introduction of new qualification programs is expected to increase motivation and help retain Bulgarian specialists in the country.