Work Opportunities in Bulgaria: 50,000 Foreign Workers Needed in 2025

Bulgaria is experiencing a significant labor shortage, especially in the tourism sector. The country urgently needs 50,000 foreign workers to meet rising demands. With over 36,000 work permits already issued in 2024, Bulgaria is actively seeking talent across various industries.

Why Bulgaria Needs Foreign Workers

Bulgaria is facing a labor crisis that extends beyond tourism. Industries like construction, transport, and healthcare also struggle to find workers. Several key factors contribute to this urgent need:

• An aging population
• Emigration of workers to Western Europe
• Low interest in seasonal or manual labor among locals

To address these challenges, Bulgarian companies are increasingly hiring from abroad to fill both low-skilled and high-skilled roles.

Where Are Bulgaria’s Foreign Workers Coming From?

In 2024, Bulgarian labor authorities issued work permits to over 36,000 foreign workers from 79 countries. The largest groups of these workers originate from:

• Türkiye (8,000)
• Uzbekistan
• Kyrgyzstan
• Nepal
• Moldova

Many foreign workers find employment in hospitality, transport, and construction, with opportunities expanding into other sectors soon.

Legal Limits on Hiring Foreign Workers in Bulgaria

Bulgarian law regulates the number of foreign workers companies can employ:

• Large enterprises: Up to 20% of total staff
• Small and medium-sized enterprises: Up to 35% of total staff

These limits may be reconsidered as the government seeks solutions to the labor shortage.

Visa Options for Foreign Workers in Bulgaria

If you’re interested in working in Bulgaria, several visa and work permit options are available:

1. EU Blue Card

• Ideal for highly skilled professionals in fields like IT, healthcare, and engineering.
• Requires a job offer with a salary at least 1.5 times the average Bulgarian wage.
• Valid for up to 4 years.

2. Single Work Permit

• For non-EU nationals seeking employment in Bulgaria for over 90 days.
• The employer must apply on behalf of the employee.
• Valid for up to 1 year and can be renewed.

3. Seasonal Work Visa (D visa)

• Suitable for short-term work in tourism, agriculture, and hospitality.
• Allows employment for up to 9 months.

4. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit

• Enables non-EU employees of multinational companies to relocate to Bulgaria temporarily.
• Applicable for those transferring within the same company.

How to Find a Job in Bulgaria as a Foreigner

Here are some effective strategies to secure a job in Bulgaria:

• Job Portals: Explore sites like Jobs.bg, Zaplatomer.bg, and EURES for English-speaking positions.
• Recruitment Agencies: Many specialize in placing international workers.
• LinkedIn & Social Media: Search for Bulgaria-based employers in your field.
• Company Websites: Apply directly to hotels, IT firms, and factories seeking foreign talent.

A Golden Opportunity for Job Seekers

Bulgaria’s labor shortages across various sectors create a unique opportunity for foreign job seekers in 2025. Whether you are an experienced engineer or looking for seasonal work in tourism, the Bulgarian job market is increasingly open to international talent.

Although the application process may take time, the demand for foreign workers is strong and growing. Now is the perfect moment to explore your options, prepare your documents, and apply for positions that align with your skills.