Bulgaria Work Visa & Work Permit: The Ultimate Guide for Foreigners

Bulgaria is one of Eastern Europe’s most promising destinations for international workers. With a fast-growing economy, strategic EU location, and affordable cost of living, it has become a gateway for both skilled and unskilled workers seeking legal employment in Europe.

This complete guide explains everything you need to know about the Bulgaria Work Visa and Work Permit — including eligibility, documents, processes, job sectors, and step-by-step instructions to start working legally in Bulgaria.

Why Work in Bulgaria

1. Growing European Economy

Bulgaria’s economy is expanding steadily, driven by growth in construction, IT, agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics. It’s becoming an attractive hub for both EU and non-EU investors and employers.

2. High Demand for Foreign Workers

Due to a shortage of local labour, Bulgarian companies hire international candidates from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Vietnam, and African countries for a wide range of roles.

3. Legal Pathway to the EU

As a member of the European Union (EU), Bulgaria provides legal pathways for non-EU citizens to reside and work in Europe. Once you hold a Bulgarian residence card, you gain greater ease of mobility across the EU.

4. Affordable Lifestyle

Bulgaria is among Europe’s most cost-effective countries, enabling foreign workers to save more while enjoying a safe, comfortable lifestyle.

5. Gateway to Permanent Residence

After five years of continuous legal residence, foreign nationals can apply for Permanent Residence and later become eligible for EU citizenship.

6. Transparent Work Permit Process

Bulgaria’s immigration system is digitally managed by the Bulgarian Employment Agency and the Ministry of the Interior, ensuring a legal and transparent recruitment process.

Understanding the Bulgarian Work Permit

A Bulgarian Work Permit is an official authorisation that allows non-EU nationals to work for a specific employer. It specifies the position, duration, and location of employment.

Issuing Authority

Work permits are issued by the Bulgarian Employment Agency (Агенция по заетостта) in coordination with the Ministry of Interior.

Validity

Work permits are typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually as long as employment continues.

Types of Work Permits in Bulgaria

Permit Type	Purpose	Validity	Ideal For
Type A – Standard Work Permit	For employees hired by Bulgarian companies	1 year	Most foreign workers
Type B – Intra-Company Transfer	For staff transferred from a foreign branch	1–3 years	Managers, specialists
EU Blue Card	For highly qualified professionals	1–4 years	IT, engineering, healthcare
Seasonal Work Permit	For temporary jobs in agriculture, tourism, or hospitality	Up to 9 months	Farm and hotel workers
Self-Employment Permit	For entrepreneurs or freelancers	1 year	Independent professionals

Bulgaria Work Visa (Type D Long-Stay Visa)

The Type D Long-Stay Visa allows non-EU citizens to enter Bulgaria for work and residence exceeding 90 days.

It is issued after the Employment Agency approves the work permit.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Bulgaria Work Visa, you must:

• Have a job offer from a registered Bulgarian employer.
• Hold a valid work permit.
• Possess a passport valid for at least 12 months.
• Provide proof of accommodation in Bulgaria.
• Show sufficient financial means.
• Hold health insurance coverage.
• Present a clean criminal record certificate.

Visa Validity

The visa is valid for up to one year and can be renewed with your residence permit.

Documents Required

From the Employer

• Completed work permit application form.
• Employment contract signed by both parties.
• Company registration documents.
• Tax and insurance certificates.
• Proof of labour market need (if required).
• Fee payment receipt.

From the Employee

• Valid passport (minimum 12-month validity).
• Two passport-size photographs.
• Work permit approval from the Employment Agency.
• Proof of accommodation.
• Health insurance certificate.
• Bank statement or proof of funds.
• Police clearance certificate.
• Visa application form and fee receipt.

Step-by-Step Process for a Bulgarian Work Visa

1. Secure Employment
   Please obtain a job offer from a Bulgarian company licensed to hire foreign nationals.
2. Employer Applies for Work Permit
   The employer submits your documents to the Bulgarian Employment Agency for approval.
3. Work Permit Issuance
   Once approved, the Employment Agency sends the authorisation to both the employer and the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
4. Apply for Type D Visa
   You can apply for the Type D Visa at the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate in your country.
5. Visa Processing
   The embassy typically processes your visa application within 30–45 working days.
6. Travel to Bulgaria
   After approval, enter Bulgaria and begin working legally.
7. Apply for a Residence Permit
   Within 14 days of arrival, register your address and apply for a Residence Permit at the Migration Directorate.

Processing Time

Stage	Estimated Duration
Work Permit Application	30–45 working days
Embassy Visa Processing	20–30 working days
Residence Permit Issuance	2–3 weeks
Total Duration	60–90 working days

Fees and Costs

Service	Average Fee (€ / BGN)	Paid By
Work Permit Application	€100–€150 / BGN 200–300	Employer
Type D Visa	€80–€100	Employee
Residence Permit	€100–€150	Employee
Embassy / VFS Service Fee	€25–€30	Employee

Additional costs may include medical insurance, translation, and legalisation of documents.

Top Industries Hiring Foreign Workers in Bulgaria

Industry	Common Roles	Average Monthly Salary (€)	Permit Type
Construction	Welders, Electricians, Plumbers	1,000–1,500	Work Permit
Manufacturing	Machine Operators, Assemblers	1,000–1,600	Work Permit
Agriculture	Farm Workers, Pickers	900–1,200	Seasonal
Logistics & Transport	Drivers, Loaders	1,200–1,700	Work Permit
Hospitality & Tourism	Servers, Chefs, Cleaners	1,000–1,400	Seasonal
IT & Engineering	Developers, System Analysts	2,000–4,000	Blue Card
Healthcare	Nurses, Caregivers	1,500–2,800	Work Permit

Benefits of Working in Bulgaria

• 100% legal employment under EU regulations.
• Access to social security, healthcare, and pension benefits.
• Eligibility for family reunification after legal residence.
• Path to Permanent Residence and EU citizenship.
• Low cost of living and affordable housing.
• Visa-free travel across Schengen countries after residence.
• Transparent visa and permit procedures.
• Growing demand for skilled and unskilled labour.

Official Government Resources

• Bulgarian Employment Agency: https://www.az.government.bg
• Ministry of Interior – Migration Directorate: https://www.mvr.bg
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.mfa.bg
• Bulgarian Investment Agency: https://www.investbg.government.bg

Bulgaria Immigration & Work Permit Services | Moving2Europe.eu

Bulgaria is becoming one of Southeast Europe’s most promising destinations for international workers thanks to its growing economy, expanding industrial sectors, affordable cost of living and increasing demand for foreign professionals. However, Bulgaria’s immigration procedures—work permits, employer sponsorship, residence authorisations, documentation requirements and government approvals—can be complex without expert assistance.

Moving2Europe.eu delivers structured, compliant, and end-to-end immigration support for skilled workers, families, and employers hiring global talent.

Complete Bulgaria Work Permit & Residence Solutions

We assist with all major Bulgarian immigration pathways, including:

• Bulgaria Work Permit (Employer-Sponsored)
• Single Work & Residence Permit (Combined Permit)
• EU Blue Card Bulgaria
• Seasonal & short-term employment permits
• Long-Stay Visa D (National Visa)
• Self-employment & business residence permits
• Intra-company transfer permits
• Student, trainee & internship residence permits

Support is available for both individual applicants and employers recruiting from abroad.

Bulgaria Immigration Services for Individuals

1. Work Permit & Employment Residence Support

We help applicants with:

• Employer-sponsored work permits
• Combined Work & Residence Permit (Single Permit)
• EU Blue Card applications
• Seasonal & project-based work visas
• Long-term residence extensions and renewals

2. Documentation & Embassy/VFS Assistance

Our service includes:

• Personalised document checklists
• Full compliance and accuracy review
• Legalisation, apostilles & certified translations
• Visa/residence application preparation
• Embassy/VFS appointment scheduling
• Interview support when required

3. Arrival & Legal Compliance in Bulgaria

We guide applicants through:

• Entry and border procedures
• National Migration Directorate registration
• Biometrics & residence card issuance
• Health insurance and tax registration
• Employer reporting and compliance obligations

Bulgaria Family & Dependent Visa Services

We support families relocating to Bulgaria with:

• Spouse residence permits
• Dependent child visas
• Family reunification applications
• Long-term resident options for family members
• School & settlement guidance

Your family’s transition to Bulgaria is managed with care and full compliance.

Bulgaria Immigration Solutions for Employers & Recruiters

Bulgaria faces labour shortages in several key sectors, including:

• Manufacturing & industrial production
• Logistics, warehousing & transportation
• Construction & skilled trades
• Hospitality, hotels & tourism
• Agriculture & seasonal work
• Healthcare & social care services
• IT, engineering & technical roles

We assist employers with:

• Choosing the correct work permit route
• Complete preparation of employee documentation
• Labour market compliance & eligibility verification
• Large-scale foreign worker recruitment programs
• Coordination with HR and legal departments
• Ensuring compliance with Bulgarian immigration laws

We help companies hire foreign workers legally, efficiently and without delays.

Executive Mobility Services for Bulgaria

For senior professionals and executives, we offer:

• Priority case handling
• Confidential document management
• Strategic relocation planning
• Fast-track application preparation
• Coordination with corporate HR and legal teams

Digital Bulgaria Immigration Tracking System

Our modern digital system provides:

• 24/7 case status visibility
• Secure online document uploads
• Milestone-based tracking
• Renewal alerts & compliance reminders
• Immigration guidelines and updates

Perfect for individuals and HR teams handling multiple applications.

Why Choose Moving2Europe.eu for Bulgaria Immigration?

• Deep expertise in Bulgarian immigration & labour regulations
• Accurate, compliant and well-structured application preparation
• Dedicated case managers for every client
• Support for workers, families and employers
• Clear communication from start to finish
• Global immigration network covering 170+ countries
• Strong understanding of Bulgaria’s residence and work permit system
• Organised, technology-driven and transparent case management

We simplify Bulgaria’s immigration process and ensure a secure, legal pathway to live and work in the country.

Start Your Bulgaria Work Permit Process Today

Whether you are a skilled worker, relocating your family or hiring international employees, Moving2Europe.eu ensures a smooth, efficient and fully compliant Bulgaria immigration experience from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the main types of Bulgarian work permits?

Bulgaria offers the Single Work & Residence Permit, the EU Blue Card, the Seasonal Work Permit, the Intra-Company Transfer Permit, and the Permit for Freelancers/Self-Employed.

2. What is the Bulgarian Single Work & Residence Permit?

A combined permit that lets non-EU workers live and work in Bulgaria with employer sponsorship, typically for 1 year.

3. What documents are required for a Bulgarian work permit?

Passport, job contract, employer documents, accommodation proof, police clearance, qualifications, and health insurance. Some require Bulgarian translation.

4. How long does the Bulgarian work permit process take?

Usually 4–12 weeks, depending on the Migration Directorate, employer readiness, and document quality.

5. Do I need a job offer to apply for a Bulgarian work visa?

Yes, a confirmed employment contract is required for most work permit types.

6. What is the EU Blue Card Bulgaria?

A residence permit for highly skilled foreigners with higher education and higher-than-average salaries.

7. Can I apply for a Bulgarian work permit from abroad?

Yes, employers apply in Bulgaria, and you attend the Bulgarian Embassy for visa formalities.

8. Can Bulgarian employers hire non-EU workers?

Yes, employers may hire foreigners when they meet the labour market, salary, and compliance regulations.

9. What is the minimum salary requirement in Bulgaria?

Wages must align with Bulgaria’s national minimum or sector-based standards; skilled roles require higher pay.

10. Can students work in Bulgaria?

Yes, international students can work part-time with a valid student residence permit.

11. What are the shortage occupations in Bulgaria?

Construction, manufacturing, IT, hospitality, agriculture, transport, and caregiving face worker shortages.

12. Can I bring my family to Bulgaria?

Yes, long-term workers can apply for family reunification for spouses and dependent children.

13. Do dependents have work rights in Bulgaria?

Yes, dependents may work after securing their own work authorisation or residence permit with work access.

14. What is the Bulgaria Intra-Company Transfer Permit?

A permit for employees transferred from foreign branches to Bulgarian subsidiaries of the same company.

15. Can I change employers after receiving a Bulgarian permit?

Yes, but you must apply for a new permit reflecting your updated employer.

16. Do I need Bulgarian language skills to work in Bulgaria?

Not always. Many factories, hospitality employers, and logistics companies accept English-speaking workers.

17. Is health insurance mandatory in Bulgaria?

Yes, health insurance is required until you are registered under Bulgaria’s public health system.

18. What is the Bulgaria Seasonal Work Permit?

A temporary visa for short-term roles in agriculture, tourism, and hospitality, usually valid for up to 90 days, depending on the sector.

19. Can seasonal workers apply for long-term residence?

No, seasonal permits do not count toward long-term residency rights.

20. How do I register my address in Bulgaria?

Upon arrival, foreigners must register their address with the Migration Office or the local municipality.

21. Can I apply for permanent residence in Bulgaria?

Yes, after 5 years of legal residence with stable employment and clean records.

22. Does Bulgaria hire non-EU workers?

Yes, due to shortages in construction, manufacturing, agriculture, transport, and food-processing industries.

23. What are the most in-demand jobs in Bulgaria?

Drivers, welders, factory workers, hospitality staff, caregivers, machine operators, and agricultural labourers.

24. Is it challenging to find a job in Bulgaria?

No, labour shortages in many industries create opportunities for both skilled and unskilled foreigners.

25. How long can I stay with a Bulgarian long-stay visa (Type D)?

Usually up to 6 months, during which you finalise your residence card in  Bulgaria.

26. Can I renew my Bulgarian work permit?

Yes, permits can be renewed if employment remains valid and renewal documents are submitted on time.

27. What is a Bulgarian Residence Permit Card?

A biometric card showing your right to live and work in Bulgaria. It must be kept valid at all times.

28. Do I need biometrics for Bulgaria?

Yes, fingerprints and photos are required during residence card issuance.

29. Can my employer apply for my Bulgarian work permit?

Yes, employers submit the main application to the Employment Agency and Migration Directorate.

30. Is Bulgaria part of the Schengen Area?

As of now, Bulgaria partially follows Schengen rules, but full Schengen membership is being implemented.

31. Can I travel within Europe with a Bulgarian residence permit?

You may travel visa-free in certain EU/Schengen countries, depending on Bulgaria’s Schengen integration phase.

32. What if my Bulgarian work permit is refused?

You can go ahead and appeal or apply. Refusals often involve missing documents or insufficient employer compliance.

33. Does Bulgaria hire drivers and logistics workers?

Yes, truck drivers, delivery workers, and warehouse staff are in high demand.

34. Is Bulgaria good for skilled migrants?

Yes, Bulgaria offers growing opportunities, lower living costs, and simple residence procedures.

35. Do documents need Bulgarian translation?

Yes, many documents require certified Bulgarian translations and may need apostille/legalisation.

36. Can unskilled foreigners find jobs in Bulgaria?

Yes, especially in agriculture, cleaning, hospitality, factories, and construction support roles.

37. What is the Bulgaria work permit processing time?

Typically 4–12 weeks, depending on the employer and the migration office workload.

38. Are healthcare workers in demand in Bulgaria?

Yes, caregivers, nurses, and medical aides are needed in hospitals and private care facilities.

39. Do employers provide accommodation in Bulgaria?

Some employers, especially in agriculture and hospitality, offer accommodation or housing assistance.

40. What is the labour market test in Bulgaria?

Employers must show that no suitable local/EU worker is available for the job, except for shortage occupations.

41. Can I work while my Bulgarian permit is processing?

No, you must wait for your residence permit before beginning employment.

42. Is there an age limit for Bulgarian work permits?

No strict age limit exists, but you must meet job and health requirements.

43. Can I convert a tourist visa into a work visa in Bulgaria?

No, you must apply for a work visa (D Visa) from your home country.

44. Does Bulgaria offer entry-level jobs for foreigners?

Yes, many industries hire entry-level workers, especially in factories, farms, hotels, and cleaning companies.

45. Are biometrics required again after arrival?

Yes, biometrics are captured when issuing the Bulgarian residence card.

46. Does Bulgaria have a digital nomad visa?

Not specifically, but remote workers may apply under business or long-stay categories.

47. What are the highest-paying sectors in Bulgaria?

IT, engineering, pharmaceuticals, finance, and energy offer the highest salaries.

48. Does Moving2Europe.eu assist with Bulgarian visas?

Yes, we support employer sponsorship, documentation preparation, embassy filing, and residence processing.

49. Can working in Bulgaria lead to citizenship?

Yes, after long-term residence, stable income, clear records, and meeting integration requirements.

50. How can I start my Bulgaria work visa application?

Send your CV to Moving2Europe.eu, select your job field, and we will manage employer sponsorship and complete visa procedures.

Professional Assistance with M2S Group Sp. z o.o.

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Offers complete guidance on Bulgarian work visas, Work Permits, and Residence Applications.

Our experienced team helps with job matching, employer coordination, document verification, and embassy processing, ensuring your migration journey is safe, transparent, and 100% legal.

For verified employment and trusted visa assistance in Bulgaria, you can contact M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Today, begin your successful European career.