Health Insurance Now Required for Single Permit Holders Working in Bulgaria

Starting July 2025, Bulgaria will mandate that employers enroll Single Work and Residence Permit holders in the national health insurance system. This change aligns the benefits for foreign workers with local labor standards, enhancing their rights and protections.

New Requirements for Health Insurance

Effective July 2025, all individuals in Bulgaria holding a Single Work and Residence Permit will be automatically included in the State Statutory Health Insurance System. While this may seem like just more bureaucracy, the significant change is that employers must now deduct, pay, and report health insurance contributions for these workers. This requirement applies equally to Bulgarian nationals and EU Blue Card holders.

Previously, health coverage for Single Permit holders was either private, optional, or often neglected. Now, this is no longer the case.

Who Does This Affect?

The new requirement impacts several groups:

• Non-EU nationals living and working in Bulgaria under the Single Work and Residence Permit.
• Employers sponsoring foreign employees under this permit.
• HR and payroll teams responsible for compliance with international hires.

Single Work and Residence Permit

The Single Work and Residence Permit serves as the primary pathway for third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) to legally live and work in Bulgaria. It is intended for skilled foreign workers who already have a job offer from a Bulgarian employer. This permit grants:

• The right to work in Bulgaria for a specific employer and position.
• The right to reside in Bulgaria for more than 90 days.
• Typically, the permit lasts for up to one year but can be renewed if employment continues.

Other Work Permit Options in Bulgaria

If you’re considering working in Bulgaria, here are some key permit options:

1. EU Blue Card

• Ideal for highly qualified professionals with a university degree.
• Requires a job offer with a salary at least 1.5 times the average in Bulgaria.
• Valid for up to four years, with options for family reunification.

2. Single Work and Residence Permit

• The most common pathway for non-EU nationals with job offers in Bulgaria.
• Covers work and residency rights for up to one year.
• Now includes mandatory health insurance.

3. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit

• For employees transferred from a multinational company to a Bulgarian branch.
• Valid for managers, specialists, and graduate trainees.
• Requires proof of employment with the sending company for at least 6–12 months.

4. Seasonal Work Permit

• Valid for up to 90 days for short-term jobs in sectors like agriculture or hospitality.

5. Freelancer or Self-Employed Residence Permit

• Available for non-EU nationals who can prove viable freelance or business activity benefiting the Bulgarian economy.

Final Thoughts

Bulgaria may not be the first choice for digital nomads or skilled expats, but it is becoming more organized in managing foreign labor. Including Single Permit holders in the public health system is not just bureaucratic; it indicates Bulgaria’s growth as a destination for international workers.

For employers, this means one more compliance requirement. For foreign workers, it translates to better access to healthcare and clearer rights while living abroad.

If you plan to work in Bulgaria, ensure your employer is aware of this new rule and that your payroll reflects the changes. Health coverage is not merely a formality; it provides essential peace of mind in a new country.