Art. 55a of the Employment Protection Acto (EPA): Incentive measure in support of unemployed persons of pre-retirement age

The Employment Promotion Act aims to regulate public relations in employment promotion, employment security, vocational guidance, and adult training. It also focuses on mediation for job placement within Bulgaria and other countries. The primary institutions involved are the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy and the National Employment Agency. Key stakeholders include employers, workers, employees, and various non-profit legal entities. This policy covers Bulgarian citizens, EU citizens, and other eligible individuals seeking employment in Bulgaria. It applies nationally and includes sectors such as vocational training, employment mediation, and adult education. Article 55a provides financial support to employers who hire unemployed persons over 55 years of age. The support is available for up to 12 months. The unemployed individuals must be directed by the National Employment Agency. Employers receive sums according to Art. 30a, para 2, for the duration of employment. In terms of timeframe, the article was introduced together with the rest of the Act in 2001, and last amended in 2021.