Work Permit

Before applying for a long-term visa, your Bulgarian employer must sponsor and secure a work permit for you.

Key Requirements for Work Permit:

A valid job offer from a Bulgarian employer.

The employer must justify why they are hiring a non-EU/EEA national (showing no suitable local or EU candidates).

Employer applies for the work permit to the Bulgarian Employment Agency.

Documents Needed from the Employer:

Employment contract.

Proof of business registration.

Job description and qualifications required.

Validity:

Work permits are usually valid for 1 year and can be extended.

Long-Term Visa Type D (Work Visa)

Once the work permit is approved, you must apply for a Type D visa to enter Bulgaria for work purposes.

Requirements for a Type D Visa:

A valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay).

Completed Visa Application Form.

Approved work permit issued by the Bulgarian Employment Agency.

Employment contract signed with your Bulgarian employer.

Recent passport-sized photos (2 copies).

Proof of accommodation in Bulgaria (e.g., rental agreement, hotel booking).

Health insurance valid for Bulgaria.

Proof of sufficient financial means to support your stay.

Visa fee payment receipt.

Processing Time:

It usually takes 1 to 2 months for the visa application to be processed.

Residence Permit

After arriving in Bulgaria with a Type D visa, you must apply for a residence permit within 90 days at the local Migration Directorate office.

Requirements for Residence Permit:

Work permit.

Type D visa.

Proof of employment and financial resources.

Valid health insurance.

Proof of accommodation.

Validity:

Residence permits are typically valid for the duration of your work permit (1 year, renewable).

General Notes

The employer plays a critical role in initiating the work permit application.

The process may vary depending on the job position, industry, and individual circumstances.

Ensure all documents are properly translated into Bulgarian and certified.

Additional Considerations

Nationals of some Asian countries may need to verify specific bilateral agreements with Bulgaria.

Ensure you have no visa bans or restrictions for entering Bulgaria or the Schengen Area (Bulgaria follows Schengen visa policies but is not yet a full Schengen member).

Contact Information

For more information or assistance with your Bulgarian visa application, please contact us at: