48531636888
+48665405352

Work in the Bulgaria: Visa Types

Home
-
Blog
-
Work in the Bulgaria: Visa Types
work-in-the-bulgaria-visa-types.jpg
898265 Views

Foreign nationals planning to live and work in Bulgaria must navigate a well-defined visa and permit process. Whether you’re seeking employment, pursuing education, or relocating for family or business reasons, understanding Bulgaria’s visa system is essential. The primary route for long-term employment is through the Type D Long-Stay Visa in conjunction with a work permit. Here's a detailed overview of the key visa categories and requirements.

1. Type D Long-Stay Visa

Purpose:
The Type D visa is Bulgaria’s main long-term visa, required for stays exceeding 90 days. It is most commonly used by individuals coming to Bulgaria for employment, study, research, or family reunification.

Eligibility and Requirements:

  • A secured job offer from a Bulgarian employer

  • A valid work permit issued by the Bulgarian Employment Agency

  • Proof of qualifications, housing, and financial means

  • Health insurance coverage

Validity:
The Type D visa is typically issued for 6 or 12 months, depending on the nature of the stay.

Who Needs It:

  • Foreign nationals with employment contracts in Bulgaria

  • International students enrolling in Bulgarian institutions

  • Researchers, investors, retirees, and family members of residents

Application Process:
Applicants generally need to first obtain a work permit, after which they can apply for the Type D visa at a Bulgarian embassy or consulate in their home country. Once in Bulgaria, visa holders must register with local authorities and apply for a residence permit.

2. Work Permit

Purpose:
A work permit authorizes foreign nationals to legally work in Bulgaria and is usually a prerequisite for obtaining a Type D visa for employment purposes.

Issuing Authority:
Bulgarian Employment Agency

Requirements:

  • Employer sponsorship

  • Relevant qualifications and experience

  • Employment contract and job details

  • Compliance with labor market conditions

Types of Work Permits:

  • General Work Permit – For most foreign workers hired directly by Bulgarian employers

  • EU Blue Card – For highly skilled non-EU professionals meeting specific salary and education criteria

  • Intra-Corporate Transferee Permit – For employees of multinational companies being transferred to a Bulgarian branch

3. Other Bulgarian Visa Types

Type A Visa (Airport Transit)

  • Purpose: For non-EU travelers transiting through a Bulgarian airport en route to another destination

  • Duration: Valid only for short layovers; does not permit entry into Bulgaria

Type C Visa (Short-Stay Visa)

  • Purpose: Allows short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or personal reasons

  • Important Note: This visa does not allow employment or long-term residence

Other Type D Visa Purposes

Besides employment, the Type D visa is also issued for:

  • Family reunification with Bulgarian citizens or residents

  • Study and academic exchange

  • Investment or business establishment

  • Retirement for individuals with stable financial resources

For anyone looking to build a professional life in Bulgaria, the combination of a Type D Long-Stay Visa and a work permit is essential. By securing a job and meeting the application requirements, foreign nationals can begin the process of legally living and working in Bulgaria. It’s also important to understand the other visa categories, as they provide flexibility for short visits, business activities, and family relocation.

Disclaimer

EU helpers are not affiliated with any government or government agency for permits. EU helpers provide immigration guidance, and concierge services for immigration and charge a service fee. It maintains www.euhelpers.pl, a private publishing website, which offers general information on issues related to immigration/permits. It is neither a legal firm nor does it provide any kind of legal advice or suggestions to its users. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date, certain terms, such as immigration eligibility criteria, may change without prior notice.

*Regarding our Job Search Service, we specialize in Resume Writing, LinkedIn Optimisation, and Resume Marketing. It is important to clarify that we do not advertise jobs on behalf of foreign employers or act as representatives for any overseas employer. Please note that our service is not a placement or recruitment service and does not guarantee job placement.

# Our REGION 527259419, KRS 0001077333, NIP 7011180860 is supported by polish lawyers who ensure fairness and compliance with legal regulations.

It is to be noted that the content here is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or tax advice. It is always advisable to consult with your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). does not provide legal or tax advice. The information presented is general in nature and is not tailored to any specific company or workforce, nor does it reflect how it operates in a particular jurisdiction. takes no responsibility for this information's accuracy or timeliness and shall not be held liable for any losses resulting from the use of or reliance on this information.