Are you interested in a new job and a new work location? Have you thought of going south? How much do you know about Bulgaria?
Bulgaria is a Balkan country, rich in beautiful nature, from the Black Sea coastline to a range of high mountains and picturesque valleys, offering a wide variety of experiences for young and old, a cultural melting pot with Slavic, Greek, Ottoman, and Persian influences, a country with a rich heritage of traditional dances, music, costumes, popular Balkan cuisine, and celebrations.
As one of the poorest countries in the European Union, Bulgaria has quite a low living standard.
Salaries are low in general, yet the people manage quite comfortably their expenses, accommodation, and outings, as well as saving for nice holidays in the mountains or by the sea.
In other words, the low cost of living and the low rent costs are the features attracting more and more foreigners to this somehow exotic country.
On the other hand, Bulgaria is generally a safe country. The level of crime is still considerably low.
This, together with low taxation, is one of the reasons for many well-established international companies to expand their business activities and employ people from different nationalities.
Having in mind that the capital city of Sofia has a lot to offer, it is becoming a modern work hub for young people and specialists from different countries. Apart from the modern office spaces and friendly attitude of the locals, once in Sofia, Plovdiv, or Varna for example, there are many options to spend quality time with friends, new colleagues, or acquaintances in cozy traditional taverns, modern coffee houses, or clubs.
Residence permit
In general, when there is a job offer, the employer will take care of the work permit and formalities with the authorities. However, it is wise to ask and confirm about it during the communication with the recruiters and the new employer.
As regarding the Residence permit, this will be arranged after a Labour Contract is signed and one is employed and relocated to Bulgaria.
When in Bulgaria, there is no need to rush as by law EU citizens, holders of a valid passport or an ID card have the right to remain in Bulgaria for a continuous period of up to three months after entering the country. During this period one can arrange their accommodation, and go through the required training and necessary procedures, stipulated by the new employer. Also, it is important to get familiar with the city, transportation options, and the life after working hours.
Once all falls in place, it is time to gather the required documents and apply for a Residence Permit.
Required documents for Residence Permit:
- A valid European ID document (a government-issued European ID card or passport)
- A Labour Contract ( have the original in hand together with a photocopy of the document)
- Proof of accommodation (a valid rental agreement or title deeds)
- A valid European Health Insurance Card or local health insurance
- A filled-out residence permit application form
Address of Ministry of Interior Sofia:
| Migration Directorate at the Ministry of InteriorAddress: 48 Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd, Sofia 1202, BulgariaTel.: +359 2 9825 000Email: [email protected]Web site: https://www.mvr.bg/ |
Working hours:
Monday to Friday, from 8.30 to 17.30 o’clock
Regional Department of Ministry of Internal Affairs-Plovdiv:
Address: ul. ”Knyaz Bogoridi” 7, 4000 Kapana, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Tel.: +359 32 932 323
The Residence Permit is issued within 3 days, up to 2 weeks. It has to be collected in person. Usually, it is issued for 5 years. The residency card can be exchanged for a 10-year valid permanent residence card.
For more on the topic, please see the links below:
