Employment of foreigners and residence and work permits in Bulgaria: Single residence and work permit and EU Blue Card - updated July 2025

In the context of a shortage of skilled workers in a number of sectors, more and more Bulgarian employers are considering hiring foreigners from third countries (outside the EU/EEA). Bulgarian legislation offers two main mechanisms for this: the Single Residence and Work Permit and the EU Blue Card. In this article we will look at their features, application conditions and procedure.

1. Single residence and work permit

The single permit allows a third-country national to reside and work legally in Bulgaria with a specific employer and in a specific position.

Who is it suitable for?

• For companies who want to employ foreign nationals in unskilled, semi-skilled or technical positions.

• For candidates who do not have a university degree or do not meet the requirements for a Blue Card.

Basic Requirements:

• Employment contract

• Evidence of qualifications or work experience.

• Accommodation at the time of application for a D visa

Duration and validity:

Issued for up to 3 years, renewable.

It is tied to a specific employer - a new application must be made when changing.

2. EU Blue Card

The Blue Card is a residence and work permit for highly qualified professionals from third countries.

Main advantages:

• Longer validity period - up to 5 years.

• Easier procedure for renewal and conversion to long-term residence status.

• Possibility of professional mobility to other EU Member States and change of employer in Bulgaria.

Requirements:

• Higher education or professional experience equivalent to higher education.

• Employment contract for a highly qualified position, with a salary not lower than 1.5 times the national average.

• Accommodation at the time of application for a D visa

Procedure:

Preparation of documents - by the employer and the applicant (including diplomas, contract, employment documents, address registration).

Application to the Migration Directorate.

Issue of type D visa - the applicant receives it at a Bulgarian consulate in his/her country.

Arriving in Bulgaria and obtaining a residence permit - the foreigner must register and obtain a residence card.

Key differences:

Criteria	SRP	EU Blue card
Higher education degree	No	Yes (or relevant work experience)
Minimal remuneration	No	1.5x average salary
Validity	Up to 3 years	Up to 5 years
Mobility in the EU	No	Partial
Public health insurance	Yes, after July 2025	Yes
Change of employer	No	Yes

What do employers need to know?

The procedures are administratively burdensome, but with proper preparation and consultation with experts can be completed in a reasonable time.

The employer is required to keep a copy of the permit and to notify the Employment Agency when the employment relationship ends and when there are changes in the employment relationship.

In case of violations - fines and penalties for both the employer and the foreigner.

Employing foreigners in Bulgaria through a Single Permit or Blue Card is a real opportunity for Bulgarian companies looking for talent across EU borders. However, it is important to follow the procedures and requirements of the law to avoid administrative and legal complications.

If you would like assistance in preparing and submitting documents for hiring foreigners, do not hesitate to contact us.