Introduction
Bulgaria is an attractive destination for foreign professionals, investors, and remote workers due to its affordable cost of living, EU membership, and low taxes. However, foreign nationals must comply with Bulgarian immigration laws to obtain a work permit or residence permit.
At Legal Frame Law Office, our expert immigration attorneys in Bulgaria assist foreign nationals with visa applications, work permits, and residence permits, ensuring full legal compliance.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Bulgarian work and residence permits, covering eligibility, required documents, and the application process.
1. Who Needs a Work or Residence Permit in Bulgaria?
✔ EU/EEA Citizens – Do not need a work permit but must register for residence if staying longer than 3 months.
✔ Non-EU Citizens – Must obtain a work permit and residence permit before legally working and living in Bulgaria.
✔ Investors & Business Owners – Can apply for a residence permit based on company ownership or investments.
✔ Freelancers & Digital Nomads – Bulgaria does not yet have a specific digital nomad visa, but alternative residence options are available.
Legal Frame Law Office provides tailored solutions to help foreigners secure their legal stay in Bulgaria.
2. Types of Work Permits in Bulgaria
Non-EU citizens must have a valid work permit before legally working in Bulgaria. The most common types include:
A) Work Permit for Employment
✔ Issued to non-EU nationals hired by a Bulgarian company.
✔ The employer must prove that no Bulgarian or EU citizen can fill the position.
✔ Valid for up to 1 year, with the possibility of renewal.
B) EU Blue Card (For Highly Skilled Workers)
✔ For non-EU professionals with a university degree and job offer in Bulgaria.
✔ Requires a minimum annual salary that is 1.5 times the national average.
✔ Allows mobility within the EU and family reunification benefits.
C) Intra-Corporate Transfer Work Permit
✔ For employees of multinational companies transferring to a Bulgarian branch.
✔ Requires proof of employment history within the parent company.
Legal Frame Law Office assists employers and individuals in securing work permits in Bulgaria, handling the full application process and legal representation.
3. How to Apply for a Bulgarian Work Permit?
The process of obtaining a work permit in Bulgaria involves several legal steps:
✔ Step 1: Job Offer from a Bulgarian Employer – The company must file a request for a work permit.
✔ Step 2: Labor Market Test – The employer must prove no local/EU workers are available for the job.
✔ Step 3: Work Permit Application – The employer submits required documents to the Bulgarian Employment Agency.
✔ Step 4: Work Permit Issuance – The approval process takes up to 30 days.
✔ Step 5: Residence Permit Application – Once the work permit is granted, the applicant must apply for a Type D Visa and residence permit.
4. Residence Permits in Bulgaria for Foreigners
Foreigners planning to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days must apply for a residence permit. The most common types include:
A) Temporary Residence Permit
✔ Valid for 1 year, renewable.
✔ Issued for employment, business activities, study, or family reunification.
B) Permanent Residence Permit
✔ Granted after 5 years of continuous residence in Bulgaria.
✔ Provides similar rights to Bulgarian citizens, except voting rights.
C) Investment-Based Residence Permit
✔ Available to foreign investors who:
- Own a company in Bulgaria (minimum investment required).
- Purchase real estate worth at least €300,000.
- Invest in Bulgarian government bonds or priority sectors.
At Legal Frame Law Office, our immigration lawyers in Bulgaria assist with residence permit applications, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
5. Required Documents for a Work or Residence Permit in Bulgaria
Applicants must provide the following documents:
✔ Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
✔ Job contract (for work permit applications).
✔ Company registration documents (for investors).
✔ Proof of financial means (bank statements, income evidence).
✔ Health insurance covering the stay in Bulgaria.
✔ Rental agreement or property ownership documents.
Our immigration lawyers in Bulgaria help clients prepare and submit applications, avoiding delays and rejections.
6. Processing Time for Work & Residence Permits
- Work Permit Approval: 30-45 days.
- Type D Visa Processing: 15-60 days (depending on the embassy).
- Residence Permit Issuance: 14-30 days after submitting all documents.
Our Legal Frame Law Office team ensures efficient handling of applications, reducing wait times and bureaucratic obstacles.
7. How Legal Frame Law Office Can Help?
At Legal Frame Law Office, we specialize in immigration law and provide legal assistance for foreigners moving to Bulgaria. Our services include:
✅ Work permit applications & employer sponsorship assistance.
✅ EU Blue Card & highly skilled worker permits.
✅ Investor & business residence permits.
✅ Appeals for rejected applications.
✅ Legal representation for long-term residence.
📩 Contact Legal Frame Law Office Today!
📞 Phone: +359876413004
📧 Email: office@legalframe.bg
🌍 Website: www.legalframe.bg/en
