Which Work Permit is Needed to Work in Bulgaria?

For most non-EU citizens looking to work in Bulgaria, the primary legal pathway involves obtaining a Single Residence and Work Permit, commonly referred to as the NEA work permit, along with a Type D long-stay visa. These two documents form the foundation for legally residing and working in the country.

What Is the Single Residence and Work Permit?

The Single Residence and Work Permit is a combined authorization that allows foreign nationals to both live and work in Bulgaria. Typically valid for up to one year, this permit can often be renewed depending on the length of the employment contract and other conditions. It streamlines the process by merging residence and employment permissions into one document, regulated by the Bulgarian Employment Agency (NEA).

The Type D Long-Stay Visa: Your Entry Point

Before you can enter Bulgaria to begin employment, you must apply for a Type D long-stay visa. This visa serves as the gateway for non-EU nationals who intend to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days for work, study, or family reasons. It is generally issued after the Single Residence and Work Permit has been approved.

The Employer’s Responsibility

In Bulgaria, the employer plays a central role in the application process for the Single Residence and Work Permit. The employer must submit the application to the Bulgarian Employment Agency on behalf of the foreign worker. This includes providing proof of the job offer, demonstrating the necessity of hiring a foreign national (often through a labor market test), and supplying all required documentation.

Other Permit Options

While the Single Residence and Work Permit is the most common route, other options may apply depending on the nature of the work:

Seasonal Work Permits: For short-term employment in sectors like agriculture or tourism.
Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) Permits: For employees transferred within multinational companies.
Freelancer or Self-Employment Permits: Less common and subject to specific criteria.

Considering the EU Blue Card

For highly qualified professionals from outside the EU, the EU Blue Card presents an alternative route. Designed for workers with advanced skills and academic qualifications, the Blue Card offers additional benefits, such as mobility within other EU countries and a faster path to permanent residency.

Navigating the process to legally work in Bulgaria as a non-EU national requires careful coordination between the foreign worker and the Bulgarian employer. The key steps involve obtaining the Single Residence and Work Permit, followed by applying for the Type D visa. Depending on your qualifications and the job role, you may also explore alternatives like the EU Blue Card or sector-specific permits.

Starting the process early and ensuring all documentation is accurate can greatly improve your chances of a smooth and successful relocation to Bulgaria.