Bulgaria Is Hiring 50,000 Foreign Workers in 2025 — No Degree Required!

Bulgaria is grappling with a significant labour shortage across multiple sectors, particularly in tourism, and is actively seeking to recruit 50,000 foreign workers in 2025. This presents a substantial opportunity for job seekers worldwide. Below is a comprehensive guide on the current labour market situation in Bulgaria, visa options available, and steps to secure employment in the country.

Bulgaria's Labour Shortage: An Overview

Bulgaria's labour shortage is driven by several factors:

• Ageing Population: A declining birth rate has led to a reduced domestic workforce.

• Emigration: Many Bulgarians have moved to Western Europe for better opportunities.

• Low Interest in Manual Jobs: There is a lack of domestic interest in seasonal or manual labour positions.

These challenges have created significant gaps in sectors such as tourism, construction, transport, and healthcare. To address this, over 36,000 work permits were issued to foreign nationals from 79 countries in 2024, with the majority coming from Türkiye, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, and Moldova.

🛂 Work Permit and Visa Options for Bulgaria

For non-EU nationals interested in working in Bulgaria, several visa and work permit options are available:

1. EU Blue Card

• Eligibility: Highly skilled professionals in fields like IT, healthcare, and engineering.

• Requirements: A job offer with a salary at least 1.5 times the average Bulgarian wage

• Validity: Up to 4 years.

2. Single Work Permit

• Eligibility: Non-EU nationals seeking employment for more than 90 days.

• Application: Employer applies on behalf of the employee.

• Validity: Up to 1 year, renewable.

3. Seasonal Work Visa (D Visa)

• Eligibility: Short-term employment in sectors like tourism, agriculture, and hospitality.

• Validity: Up to 9 months.

4. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit

• Eligibility: Employees of multinational companies being transferred to Bulgaria.

Note: Allows temporary relocation without changing the employer.

⚠️ Challenges in the Work Permit Process

Despite the high demand for foreign workers, the process of obtaining work permits in Bulgaria can be time-consuming, often taking 6 to 9 months. This is due to:

• Bureaucratic Delays: Lack of coordination among state institutions.

• Outdated Procedures: Inefficient administrative processes.

• Staff Shortages: Insufficient administrative personnel to handle applications.

Additionally, Bulgarian law currently limits the number of foreign workers a company can hire:

• Large Enterprises: Up to 20% of staff.

• Small and Medium-sized Enterprises: Up to 35% of staff.

These restrictions may be re-evaluated as the government seeks solutions to the labour shortage.

🔍 Finding Employment in Bulgaria

To secure a job in Bulgaria, consider the following avenues:

• Job Portals: Websites like Jobs.bg, Zaplatomer.bg, and EURES list various job openings, including English-speaking roles.

• Recruitment Agencies: Specialized agencies can assist in placing international workers.

• Networking: Utilize LinkedIn and other social media platforms to connect with Bulgarian employers.

• Direct Applications: Visit company websites, especially in sectors like hospitality, IT, and manufacturing, to apply directly.

Tip: Ensure your CV is in English and adheres to European formatting standards.

🌟 Conclusion

Bulgaria's urgent need for foreign workers in 2025 offers a unique opportunity for international job seekers. While the application process may have its challenges, the demand spans various sectors and skill levels. By understanding the visa options and proactively seeking employment, you can take advantage of this growing market.