Work Permit in Bulgaria

The developing economy of Bulgaria and its strategic location in South-Eastern Europe especially attract foreign specialists and entrepreneurs. Since obtaining a work permit in this country should be followed by many requirements and specific procedures, below are described the main aspects and requirements for obtaining a work permit in Bulgaria.

WHAT IS THE BULGARIA WORK VISA?

Having an emerging economy and a strategic position in South-Eastern Europe, Bulgaria is a country that appeals to many foreign professionals. In order for a foreign citizen to be able to work legally in the country, he or she will have to obtain a work visa that will allow him or her to work and reside in the country. In the following paper we will review what is a work visa to Bulgaria, its types and the main requirements for obtaining it.

How to apply for the Bulgaria work visa in 2024?

Bulgaria, with its developing economy and attractive business environment, continues to attract foreign professionals. To be able to work legally in the country, it is required to obtain a work visa compliant with the year 2024. In the following paper, we will review the major steps toward successful application for a work visa to Bulgaria.

How to Obtain a Bulgarian Work Visa and Permit?

Bulgaria, with the developing economy and strategic location in South-Eastern Europe, is increasingly attracting foreign specialists. To be legally employed on the territory of the country, you should obtain a work visa and a work permit. In the following article, we are going to consider the general steps that will help you to successfully finalize this procedure.

Type of visa and work permit determination

First of all, one needs to choose the correct type of visa and work permit depending on the nature and duration of the work to be done:

• Contractual work visa (Employment visa): For those whose employer is located in Bulgaria and for the cases of job offer.
• Visa for highly qualified specialists (EU Blue Card): Specialists with higher education and well-paid professionals.
• Self-employed visa: Category applicable for those who plan to open or manage a business in Bulgaria.
• Seasonal work visa: Application for the purpose of accomplishing seasonal work.

Preparation of documents

Upon application for a Bulgarian work visa and work permit, you shall submit the following documents:

• Application form: It can either be downloaded from the website of the Bulgarian Employment Agency or collected from the Bulgarian Consulate.
• Valid passport: Sufficient validity is required throughout the intended stay.
• Passport size photographs: Stringently, it requires two photos.
• Labour contract: The original along with a photostat copy of the labour contract signed by the employer in Bulgaria.
• Documents of qualifications and experience: Diplomas, certificates, letters of recommendation.
• Health insurance: A policy that covers all medical expenses during your stay in Bulgaria.
• Criminal record certificate: A document that proves you have no criminal record issued by the competent authorities of your country of residence.
• Proof of financial solvency: Bank statements or other documents proving you have sufficient funds to live in Bulgaria.

Submission of the application

Application for a work visa and work permit is submitted to the Bulgarian Employment Agency or the Bulgarian consulate/embassy in your country. All these documents must be translated into Bulgarian and notarized.

Interview

After you apply, you may be summoned to a personal interview with the consulate. All your documents are checked, and questions are asked about the reason for the trip and conditions of work.

Application consideration

The application processing term varies from a few weeks up to a few months; it depends on the visa type and the migration authority workload.

Visa issue and entry to Bulgaria

You will be issued with a work visa that enables you to enter Bulgaria, whereby you will begin working after entry. Note that upon entering Bulgaria, you are obligated to register at the police station in your locality and then acquire a residence permit.

Registration and residence permit

Within two weeks of your arrival in Bulgaria, you need to address yourself to the local police and obtain a residence permit. It will serve as proof of your entitlement to stay long-term inside the country and should be produced when receiving health and social services, or at the bank upon opening an account, among other administrative purposes.

Work permit extension

This type of work permit can also be extended, depending on the continuation with the same employer. Its renewal should be applied several months before the date of its validity and submit documents verifying further employment.

What documents do I need for Bulgaria work visa application?

Bulgaria, having an emergent economy and a geographical location in South-Eastern Europe, continues to attract foreigners. To be able to work in the country, foreigners need a work visa. To make an application for a visa, one must be well-prepared to obtain all the required documents. Let’s see below what main documents will be needed for a successful application for a work visa to Bulgaria.

1. The application form, in relation to a work visa, must be completed. It can be downloaded from the official website of the Bulgarian Employment Agency or obtained from the Bulgarian Consulate. The application form shall be completely and correctly filled out.
2. To enter into Bulgaria, below are some requirements that are commonly asked by the Bulgarian Embassy/Consulate upon your personal appearance/submission:
3. Valid passport: Your passport should be valid for the entire period of your stay in Bulgaria. Your passport should also include at least two free pages for visa and stamps.
4. Passport size photos: Attach two recently taken colour passport-size photos which should meet the international standards for visa documents – 35×45 mm, on light-coloured background, without hats and tinted glasses.
5. Labour contract: A copy and an original of the employment contract with the Bulgarian employer. The contract shall contain all terms and conditions of employment: position, remuneration, contract period, and other crucial details.
6. Qualification and experience-proving documents: Copies of diplomas, certificates, letters of recommendation, and other documents proving your professional qualifications and work experience relevant to the position.
7. Health insurance: A health insurance policy, which covers all medical expenses for the period of your stay on the territory of Bulgaria and will provide maintenance for your health and safety.
8. Certificate of absence of criminal record: To be issued by the competent authorities of your country of residence, confirming that you have no criminal record. The certificate should be translated into Bulgarian and notarised.
9. Proof of financial solvency: It is necessary to provide documents proving that you have sufficient funds to live in Bulgaria for the entire period of validity of the visa. This can be bank statements, income documents or other financial guarantees.
10. Payment of consular fee: Consular fee for processing the visa application. The fee may vary, so it is recommended to check with the Bulgarian consulate in advance.
11. Supporting documents: Depending on the type of case, supporting documents can be required, like invitation letter from an employer, evidence of accommodation in Bulgaria, etc.

How to apply

Gathering documents: Collect all the needed documents, ensure they are translated into Bulgarian and notarised.

Application: In person at a Bulgarian embassy or consulate. Or also possible through the Bulgarian Employment Agency.

Interview: In case of need, an interview is held at the consulate, where all the documents will be verified, and additional questions about the purpose of the trip and the working conditions will be asked as well.

Waiting for application processing: The process of applying may take several weeks or even months. Time is spent on checking the migration services for correctness of the data provided.

Obtaining a visa: This means that once your application gets accepted, you will be issued a work visa which permits you to enter Bulgaria and start working there.

Where and when can you apply for a Bulgaria work visa?

Bulgaria, with its emerging economy, has become a land of attraction for many foreign professionals. However, the work visa is essential to work in this country on legal grounds. It requires different procedures and strict deadlines to apply for one. We shall look at the places and time when you can apply for a work visa to Bulgaria in this article.

After application, you may be required to attend a personal interview either at a consulate or a visa application centre. The interview is going to review your documents and ask some questions about the purpose of your trip and working conditions.

For how long is the Bulgaria work visa valid?

The improving economy and favorable business climate of Bulgaria continue to attract foreign specialists. A work visa is required for the legal performance of work in the country. Successful planning of one’s career and living in the country requires cognizance of visa duration and the conditions regarding its prolongation. In this article, we look at how long a work visa to Bulgaria is issued and what exactly affects its prolongation.

Types of work visas and their validity

Bulgaria offers a number of variants of work visas with their characteristics and validity period:

Employment visa: Issued in view of performing work based on an employment contract with a Bulgarian employer. Its validity is usually between one and three years, during which time it can be extended if the employment relationship remains in place.

Visa for highly qualified specialists (EU Blue Card): It is for the highly paid, higher-education professionals. The visa is issued for four years and can be renewed, if all the conditions are met and you continue working in the relevant sphere.

Self-employed visa: Applies to persons who intend to either start or develop a business in Bulgaria. The self-employment visa is granted for a period of up to two years and may be extended if the business is successful for more than two years.

Seasonal work visa: This is issued for seasonal work where there is a high demand, for example, agricultural and tourism. The period for the visa is valid but does not exceed six months. In any one calendar year, the visa cannot be renewed.

Procedure for extending a work visa

The extension of your work visa depends on several conditions, and the following procedure must be followed:

Preparation of documents: Renew all necessary documents: employment contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance, and proof of financial solvency.

Application for Extension: It is advisable to submit an application for extension few months prior to the termination date of the existing visa. This is done using the Bulgarian Employment Agency and in some cases through a Bulgarian consulate/embassy.

Application review: The review process for an application extension may take several weeks up to months. Migration authorities ensure the information is correct and that the candidate meets every requirement by their terms.

If the employment contract with the employer is completed, then even the visa can be cancelled.

The violation of conditions of stay or work in the country may be the reason for cancelling the visa.

On the provision of false information, the visa may be cancelled as the applicant has presented false or forged documents at the time of application.

Key factors for visa extension

On time application: The application for renewal shall be made well in advance to avoid any interruptions in legal status.

Renewal of documents: All the documents shall be updated and meet the requirements of the migration authorities.

Conformity: Ensure that you comply with all legal requirements and conditions of stay in Bulgaria.

Are foreigners allowed to work in Bulgaria?

Where the economy is developing and the geography is in the heart of South-Eastern Europe, Bulgaria naturally will attract many foreign professionals to work there. The most important question related to their employment is simple: “Can foreigners work in Bulgaria?” The response is clear as well: “Yes”, they can. But when it comes to working legally here, one must follow various legal requirements and procedures set by the legislation. With this article, we will introduce the main aspects related to the employment of foreigners in Bulgaria.

Legal framework for foreigners’ employment

Foreign nationals who are not EU and EEA country citizens should undergo the procedure for obtaining a work permit in order to be legally employed on the territory of Bulgaria. As a general rule, the procedure for issuance of a work permit includes:

• Work visa: Depending on the type of work and the period of time to which it refers, a foreigner should obtain the relevant work visa.
• Work permit registration: Permission from the Bulgarian state, which proves the right to work within the country in labor activities.

Types of work permits

By nature and duration of the work activity respectively there are several types of work permits in Bulgaria as follows:

• Employment visa: for foreigners who have received a job offer from a Bulgarian employer.
• Visa for highly qualified specialists (EU Blue Card): For professionals with higher education and a high salary.
• Self-employed visa: For those who plan to start a business in Bulgaria.
• Seasonal work visa: For seasonal work such as agriculture and tourism.

Application Procedure to Work Permit

The process of obtaining a work permit involves several key steps:

• Job offer receipt: The process necessarily involves an official job offer from a Bulgarian employer.
• Gathering of documents: Preparation of all the required documents, including one’s passport, contract of employment, proof of qualification, health insurance, and certificate of criminal record.
• Application: The application is to be made for a work visa and work permit through the Bulgarian Employment Agency or through the Bulgarian consulate/embassy in the applicant’s country of residence.
• Application processing: The application processing period varies from a few weeks to months. Migration authorities ensure that the information given is valid and the applicant qualifies.

The process above might take months or even a year depending on the procedure, though this can be changed and reduced in the recent amendments in the immigration act 2014.

Foreign workers are obliged to pay taxes and social contributions in the Bulgarian social security system, which grants them a right to healthcare, pension savings, and other types of social benefits. The Bulgarian tax system is relatively progressive, based on income level and a specific rate of taxation.

Benefits and challenges

Bulgaria is a very advantageous country in which to work, given the relatively low cost of living, very good education and healthcare, and an opportunity for professional development, among other advantages. However, it takes much time and energy to get through the procedure of getting a work permit.

The types of work visas in Bulgaria

Bulgaria, with its developing economy and strategic location in South-Eastern Europe, continues to attract foreign professionals. In order to legally work in the country it is necessary to obtain an appropriate work visa. In this article we will look at the main types of work visas available to foreign nationals and their key characteristics.

Application process

To get any of the visas listed above, it’s necessary to follow a list of several key steps:

• Document Collection: Put in order all the necessary documents: passport, employment contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance, and a criminal record certificate.
• Applying: The application shall be filed either with the Bulgarian Employment Agency or with the Bulgarian Consulate/Embassy in your country.
• Application review: It may take from a few weeks to a few months before the application process is approved.
• Visa issuance: Once your application is approved, you obtain a work visa, which allows you to travel to Bulgaria and begin working.

Bulgaria work permit requirements

Bulgaria, being an emerging economy and a strategic country in South-Eastern Europe, has attracted many foreign professionals and entrepreneurs. In order to work legally in the country, it is necessary to obtain a work permit, which requires fulfilment of a number of requirements and compliance with established procedures. We will consider the key ones for obtaining a work permit below.

The whole process of obtaining a Bulgarian work permit requires very good preparation and the fulfillment of all of the established requirements and procedures. Correct preparation of the documents and on-time presentation of the applications significantly raise the chances of successfully obtaining a work permit. For this purpose, it is advisable to seek professional guidance from migration agents and to take the correct steps at each stage of the process and prevent any possible mistakes.

Work permit in Bulgaria

In the last several years, Bulgaria has taken a position as an attractive state for foreign investors and professional due to its strategic location and economic stability and liberal tax policy. However, foreign citizen needs to obtain a work permit to start working in the country.

Overview of the process of obtaining a work permit

1. Determination of permit requirement: For foreign nationals, if they wish to work in Bulgaria, the first step should be checking if they are required to obtain a work permit. Such is not needed by EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals, but the other nationals usually do.
   • EU Blue Card: aimed for highly qualified professionals, provided that higher education is obtained and a work contract with a salary of 1.5 times the national average has been obtained.
   • Self-employment permit: intended for foreigners arriving to perform an independent or entrepreneurial activity on the territory of the country.
   • General work permit: this covers cases when the foreigner intends to be employed by a Bulgarian employer.
2. How to Apply: To be granted a work permit, there are many documents required. Some of them are:
   • Application form as required;
   • Qualification and experience proof;
   • Employment contract with a Bulgarian employer;
   • Documents proving legal stay in the country.

Timeframes and fees: Depending on the type of permit and the documentation presented, the processing time for a work permit application may range from 15 to 90 days. The fee for the processing of a work permit also varies; further details can be inquired about the Bulgarian Migration Service.

Strategic Recommendations:

• Research requirements thoroughly: Each variant of work permit has its peculiarities in requirements and conditions that need to be carefully looked into and met.
• Early Planning: The permit process should be initiated as early as possible due to potential delays in processing paperwork. It is advisable that advice be sought from lawyers or migration agents in Bulgaria to avoid common mistakes and speed up the process.

Obtaining a work permit in Bulgaria is very important and not always an easy step for foreign professionals and entrepreneurs alike. Compliance with all requirements and understanding the process clearly can make the process of obtaining necessary documents much easier and speedier for legal labor activities in this country.

Employment of third-country nationals on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria
According to the Employment Promotion Act of the Republic of Bulgaria, third-country nationals may be employed in the territory of the Republic only after obtaining a work permit from the Employment Agency. Such a permit is issued in pursuance of Articles 70, paragraph 2 and 72b, paragraph 3 of the said Act. The work permit is a condition for further granting of the “D” visa by the Consular Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and residence permit by the Migration Service.

A work permit is not needed in the following cases, which are under article 6 paragraphs 1 and 2 items 1, 4, 8, 9, and 11 of the Ordinance on the procedure for issuing, refusing and canceling such permits. In these instances, work permit as a form of the Unified Residence and Work Permit issued by the Ministry of the Interior.

The process of getting a work permit involves making an application on behalf of the employer, who can be either a natural or a legal person, to the competent Labour Agency. The application should include all the necessary documents: the justification of the request, the personal data of the foreigner, documents confirming his qualifications and work experience, and documents confirming the legality of the employer’s activity.

It generally takes a month for the processing of the application. In this context, the work permit may be granted or rejected. The work permit is granted for a period of one year, which may further be renewed up to three years on the same conditions as the initial permit.

The law fixes fees on issuing or renewing the permit, including the reissue, when it has been lost or mutilated, and differs by application type and the permit issuance duration.

The employer shall notify the Employment Agency for an early cancellation of work permit for the foreigner to the competent state authorities within three days after appearance of this circumstance, the cancellation is also noticed.

In this way, work permits for foreigners in Bulgaria is one complex administrative procedure performed strictly under the rules and law requirements.

Do I need a visa to work in Bulgaria?

For third-country nationals who want to work in the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, there are special conditions to obtain work and residence permits. Let us consider two key types of permits:

1. Single Residence and Work Permit (SRWP)
2. EU Blue Card

Peculiarities of obtaining a work permit: A work permit is not required in the following cases:

• Permanent or long-term residence permit.
• Valid EU Blue Card residence permit issued by another EU Member State.
• Humanitarian or refugee status, temporary protection.
• Family member of a Bulgarian or EU citizen.
• Student status – you can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays.

How to get an ERPR: ERPR is issued with conditions, or under certain conditions. This could be done without leaving the territory of Bulgaria if the person is already holding another residence permit, for example a student permit. Otherwise, a D visa would be required.

ERPR documents:

• Questionnaire.
• Copies of passport with personal data.
• Certificate of no criminal record.
• Document indicating accommodation availability.
• Reason from the employer, including motivation for not hiring a local professional.
• Education and professional qualifications documents.
• A certificate-application from the employer on the number of employees.
• Compliance with labor and pay conditions.
• Health Insurance.

EU Blue Card: It is granted for qualified professionals, who have requirements in terms of education and professional experience. One doesn’t need a D visa if the applicant has a residence permit or international protection for a long term in the EU.

More details on the EU Blue Card:

• An application for the Blue Card may be submitted at least 60 days before the end date of the residence permit under which the person resides in that Member State.
• If a change of employer occurs during the first year, a fresh application is needed.
• The right to look for another job when you are unemployed within the first two years.
• Valid for a period up to 5 years on a renewable basis depending upon the duration of the employment contract.

The entire process is pretty tedious to follow if one is to strictly adhere to the act and prepare supporting documentation. Any missing or documents which need completing are relayed to applicant by Migration Service with requirement to correct all issues within established timeframe.

Being a member of the European Union, Bulgaria offers so many possibilities regarding employment and business opportunities. In this sense, it is attractive for foreign professionals from all over the world. The question of whether you need a visa for working reasons is a critical issue when planning your career or business in this country.

Categories of foreign nationals in the context of employment

1. Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland may stay in Bulgaria for up to three months without any permit and work in Bulgaria as long as they register with the local authorities and obtain confirmation of registration for stays of more than three months.
2. This is more rigid for the non-EU/EEA citizens. In this situation, in case of spending over 90 days within six months in the country, it is necessary to get a national visa type D. The latter is an essential step towards getting further residence and work permit.

Procedure of receiving D visa for work

Document preparation: Key documents include proof of an employment contract with a Bulgarian employer, proof of professional qualifications and proof of financial independence.

Application: The application for a D visa is submitted in person at the consular section of the Bulgarian embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence. It is important to note that the processing can take between 30 and 60 days.

Cost and duration of the visa: The cost of a D visa can vary, but it is usually around 100 euros. The visa is issued for a period corresponding to the length of the employment contract, but not exceeding one year with the possibility of extension.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I work in Bulgaria with a tourist visa?
  • No, a tourist visa does not give the right to work. It is necessary to apply for a D visa and obtain the appropriate work permit accordingly.
• What are the special conditions for entrepreneurs?
  • It is also required for foreign entrepreneurs who want to open their own business in Bulgaria to get a type D visa, submitting a business plan and proof of investment accordingly.

The obtaining of the right to work in Bulgaria is very demanding. It requires a great plan and acquaintance with the relevant local legal requirements. In foreign professionals’ and entrepreneurs’ lives, visa application processes would be very much a question of long-term prospects of stay and work in the country. With the right approach, Bulgaria offers a great opportunity to develop your career and conduct business in the heart of Europe.

Types of Bulgaria work permits

Bulgaria, being a country of the European Union, attracts many foreign specialists and investors due to its economic opportunities and favorable tax climate. For foreign nationals to legally work in Bulgaria, the corresponding work permit has to be obtained.

Main types of work permits in Bulgaria

Procedure for applying for a work permit

The process starts with the application and issuance of a work permit in the country of Bulgaria. Supporting documentation includes a passport, diplomas, CVs, an employment contract, as well as other supporting papers. Applications are submitted both locally through the labor authorities and abroad through Bulgarian diplomatic missions.

A proper choice of a type of work permit in Bulgaria would depend on qualifications, kind of planned activity, and long-term objectives of the foreign specialist or entrepreneur. It is possible to increase chances of successful obtaining of the permit only by the competent approach to the process of preparation and submission of documents; meanwhile, this ensures the possibility of legal work and business development in Bulgaria.

EU blue card in Bulgaria

The EU Blue Card is one of the most prestigious documents allowing highly qualified professionals from countries outside the European Union to work and reside in Bulgaria. This document not only opens the doors to the Bulgarian labour market, but also provides the possibility of free movement and professional mobility within the EU countries.

Conditions for obtaining the EU Blue Card

Higher education degree: To apply for an EU Blue Card in Bulgaria, the candidate must have a higher education degree recognized within the EU, preferably relevant to the proposed job, while the minimum period of qualifying studies shall be three years.

Closing Labour contract or Job Offer: Contract sealed and a job offer, or an employer in Bulgaria will ensure the wage is 1.5 times the national average selected candidate is proven financially stable and related to his or her profession.

Advantages of the EU Blue Card

• Long-term residence and work in Bulgaria: A Blue Card shall be issued based on the duration of the employment contract, but for no more than four years, where the possibility of subsequent extension exists within a specific stipulated timeline period that is based on this standard solution mechanism rule book summary.
• Family Reunification: The family of Blue Card holders can join them in Bulgaria with a possibility of having access to work or studying, including the spouse and children.
• Intra-EU mobility: After 18 months of working in Bulgaria, Blue Card holders can move and work in another EU country while retaining the status and benefits of the card.

Application process for the Blue Card

Collection of documents: The following documents must be attached to the Blue Card application: passport copy, higher education diploma, employment contract, proof of sufficient income, health insurance and other documents as requested.

Submission of the application: The application is submitted in person at the Bulgarian Migration Service or at the Bulgarian Consulate in the applicant’s country of residence.

Review of the application: The review process can take from several weeks to several months. Once the process is complete, the applicant will be notified of the decision.

That is a very favorable means for highly qualified professionals who would like to develop their career in Bulgaria and other European Union countries. It is not only legalizing employment, but also an opportunity for professional and personal growth in a stable European economy.

Application for a visa to work in Bulgaria

The employment of foreigners in Bulgaria is regulated by two key pieces of legislation: the Aliens in the Republic of Bulgaria Act (ALBA) and the Labour Migration and Labour Mobility Act (LMMA) and its Implementing Regulation (LMPA).

Working conditions for foreigners from EU countries

Citizens of the European Union Member States, but also of the states that adhere to the EEA and Switzerland, enjoy equal rights with Bulgarian citizens in all aspects of employment access. They have the right to work without requiring special permits and are able to be subject to the following conditions:

Job search through the EURES portal, which announces on it vacant jobs posted in the Bulgarian labor offices.

Employment under conditions similar to those for Bulgarian citizens, including salary and social guarantees.

Requirements for third-country nationals

Third-country nationals must fulfil the following requirements in order to work in Bulgaria:

• Legal residence in the country on the basis of a residence permit or a single residence and work permit.
• Work permit issued by the Employment Agency, except for those foreign nationals having a long-term or permanent residence permit or equivalent rights such as, inter alia, under the status of a refugee or international protection granted.

Scenarios of labour market access for foreigners

Access to the Bulgarian labour market is granted to foreigners in the following cases:

• Signing a labour contract with a Bulgarian employer.
• Secondment by a foreign employer to provide services in Bulgaria.
• Intra-corporate translation.
• Freelancing or doing freelance work.

Restrictions on access to the labour market

Foreigners who do not have the right to work in Bulgaria:

• C visa for short-term stays, except for authorised seasonal work up to 90 days.
• Long-term residence under certain categories of Article 24 of the Aliens Act that do not provide for the right to employment.

These stipulate the basis upon which the legal labor activity of foreigners in Bulgaria shall be performed to conform to the stipulated requirements for both EU citizens and third-country nationals as, due to its sound economic situation and strategic position, Bulgaria attracts many foreign professionals who wish to pursue further professional development in Europe. For any foreigner who wishes to work in Bulgaria, a work visa is necessary.

Picking the Visa Type

The work visa to Bulgaria is a national visa type D. This visa is intended for foreign nationals who are going to stay in the country for more than 90 days and who need to legalise their employment.

Preparation of documents

First of all, the candidate needs to collect the following documents:

1. Visa application: The application form must be filled in Bulgarian or English.
2. Valid passport: It has to be valid for at least three months after the date of expiry of the requested visa.
3. Policy and Labour Contract with a Bulgarian employer: Proof of employment in Bulgaria.
4. Documents confirming qualifications and work experience: Diplomas, certificates, CVs.
5. Proof of sufficient funds for accommodation: Bank statements or other financial documents.
6. Insurance: Health insurance covering the whole period of stay in Bulgaria.

Submission of documents

The visa application and all necessary documents must be submitted in person at the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s country of residence. In some cases it is possible to submit the documents through an accredited visa agency.

Application procedure

Following document submission, the application process can take several weeks or even months. In certain cases, additional verification of information or an interview with the applicant may be needed.

Visa Issuance and Entry into Bulgaria

After approval, the application is issued as a visa, allowing singular or plural entry into the nation. At the moment a foreigner enters Bulgaria he or she must submit the application for a residence permit to the Migration Service within 90 days after entry.

Obtaining a work visa to Bulgaria is a laborious and careful endeavor, but this process is possible only under full understanding of all legal nuances. Everything may look hard enough, but one can receive a visa by due approach and a complete package of documents, which is the first important step to a successful career in Bulgaria for many foreign professionals.

What documents are required for work permit in Bulgaria?

In order to be employed in Bulgaria, foreign nationals need to obtain a work permit. This is issued after the provision of several documents certifying the applicant’s qualification, the legality of his/her stay, and the observance of all requirements under the local legislation.

Main documents required

Additional requirements

• Criminal record certificate: A document from his/her country of origin or residence confirming that the applicant does not have any criminal records.
• Medical certificate: Proof of absence of diseases that pose a threat to public health.

The application process

Documents for obtaining a work permit are submitted to the Bulgarian Migration Service or through the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s country of residence. All documents not in Bulgarian or English must be translated and notarised.

Proper preparation of a full set of documents and their proper execution become crucial in the process of obtaining a work permit in Bulgaria. Plan for the submission of the papers, considering possible processing times and any potential deficiencies in documentation that need to be corrected. Proper preparation as well as careful attention to detail will facilitate the procedures of obtaining the permit and facilitate easier startup in Bulgaria.

Visas under the Republic of Bulgaria law

The Aliens Act categorizes visas into two categories:

• Visa A: Transit visa for passing through the airports without leaving the international zone.
• Visa C: Short-term visa, transit, or stay in the country for less than 90 days in every 180 days. This may include seasonal work, provided that a permit is acquired from the Employment Agency.
• Visa D: It is aimed at foreigners who wish to acquire a long-term or permanent residence in Bulgaria.

Conditions of employment of foreigners

Foreigners are allowed to access the Bulgarian labour market, under equal access to opportunities. EU, EEA and Swiss nationals have equal rights with the locals and third-country nationals have to obtain a work permit except if having a long-term or permanent residence permit or other equal rights.

Scenarios requiring a work permit

• Single residence and work permit.
• EU Blue Card for highly skilled workers.
• Seasonal employment from 90 days to 9 months.
• Intra-corporate transfers.
• Employment of seconded workers.
• Employment of family members with a residence permit.
• Outside Activities.

Registration of foreign workers

Employers must register foreign workers, including:

• Bulgarian in origin.
• Seconded to provide services for up to 3 or 6 months.
• Seasonal workers for a period of up to 90 days.
• Researchers within research projects.
• Full-time students.
• Trainees under an employment contract.

Bulgarian citizenship

Foreigners can get Bulgarian citizenship on various grounds:

• By origin: If one of the parents is a Bulgarian citizen.
• By place of birth: Born on the territory of Bulgaria under certain conditions.
• On naturalisation: After long-term residence in Bulgaria – at least 5 years.
• Through marriage: With a Bulgarian citizen, under certain conditions.

These regulations govern the stay and work of foreigners in Bulgaria, setting up the legal basis for establishing residence and employment in Bulgaria based on local and international legislation.

Bulgaria work visa processing time

Obtaining a work visa to Bulgaria is an important process for foreign professionals planning to work in the country. Understanding the timeframes for processing applications can help applicants to effectively plan their relocation and start working.

Main types of work visas in Bulgaria

Bulgarian type D national visa is prepared for foreign nationals staying in the country for longer periods of time (more than 90 days). Type D visa can be issued both for specific contractual work and for entrepreneurial activity.

Factors that impact processing times

1. Completeness and correctness of the documentation submitted: Filings are delayed by incomplete or wrongfully filled documents. Ensure that your application package is correct with up-to-date and accurate information.
2. Seasonality: Applications are usually processed late in peak seasons, like the holiday season or the beginning of classes.
3. Personal circumstances of the applicant: For instance, the requirement for additional verification of information or inability to verify documents because of their origin or translation.

Standard processing times

Processing times for D work visa applications in Bulgaria may vary but are normally:

• 15 to 30 days for standard application processing.
• In some cases, with complex documentation or during periods of high utilisation, the process can take up to 60 days.

Fast Track suggestions

Recommendation 1: Fill out paperwork well in advance. Start early in order to prepare and submit the same, especially while contemplating shifting within a specified period of time.

Recommendation 2: Have the professional review the papers. Avail of the service of an immigration agent or attorney who may ensure that respective and relevant documents are drafted accurately.

Follow the instructions of the consulate or visa application centre: Follow all instructions of the consulate or visa application centre carefully to avoid mistakes which may delay processing in your case.

The processing time of a work visa application to Bulgaria depends on many factors, including the accuracy and completeness of the documents submitted and the overall workload of the consular services. Proper preparation and planning can greatly simplify and speed up the visa application process, ensuring a smooth transition to the next stage of your career in Bulgaria.

Bulgaria work visa requirements

A work visa to Bulgaria opens the doors for foreign professionals in the development of their professional career in this country. To properly prepare for working in Bulgaria, one needs to understand some basic requirements that relate to the issue of a work visa. Below are some of them.

Basic requirements for obtaining a work visa to Bulgaria

Additional documents and conditions

• Biometric Data: When applying for a visa, applicants are required to provide biometric data, which includes fingerprints and a photograph.
• Completing the application form: The visa application form needs to be filled in correctly and completely. This can be downloaded from the official website of the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate.

Documents for obtaining a work visa are submitted in person at the consular section of the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s country of residence. In some cases, it is possible to apply through accredited visa centres.

Application processing time

The standard processing time for a work visa application in Bulgaria is between 15 and 30 days; however, all these procedures do depend on the case specifics and the workload of the consulate at any given time.

Thorough preparation and a full understanding of the work visa requirements are the keys to successful application for a work permit in Bulgaria. Since this process acquires strategic importance, it would be advisable to familiarize oneself with all the regulatory requirements and prepare all the papers in advance for timely and successful visa applications.

What does Regulated United Europe do for work permits in Bulgaria?

Obtaining a work permit in Bulgaria for third country nationals can be a complex task requiring careful preparation and understanding of local legislation. The law firm Regulated United Europe provides comprehensive services to facilitate this process, from document preparation to job search assistance.

The following are also available: advice on possible grounds for rejection of a work permit and to help resolve the issues in case the application was denied for lack of documentation or other reasons.

Choosing Regulated United Europe as your partner when applying for a work permit in Bulgaria ensures not only comprehensive support and compliance with all necessary procedures, but also significantly increases the chances of successfully obtaining a permit. Thanks to our professional approach and in-depth understanding of local legislation, Regulated United Europe will be a reliable assistant in realising your aspiration to work and develop professionally in Bulgaria.