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Work Permit Provider

Bulgaria Work Permit

Bulgaria Single Work & Residence Permit

Guidance for non-EU workers on Bulgaria’s employer-led single permit, Type D visa and residence process.

BULGARIA
SINGLE PERMIT
WORK • RESIDENCEEMPLOYER-LED
Official Route

Single Permit for Employed Workers

For many non-EU employees, Bulgaria uses a single work-and-residence permit process. The employer generally starts by seeking approval through the competent employment authorities. Where a visa is required, the worker then uses the approved route to obtain a Type D visa and complete the residence process.

Employer Applies FirstThe employer initiates the approval process for the single permit with the relevant employment authority.
Type D VisaWhere required, the worker obtains a Bulgarian Type D visa before completing the residence stage.
Job-Specific PermitThe permit is tied to the approved worker, employer, position and type of work.
Changing employer generally requires a new application. Supporting documents can include passport, criminal-record certificate, accommodation, insurance, financial means and qualification evidence where applicable.

Typical Process

  • Employer/job eligibility review
  • Employer submits single-permit approval request
  • Employment authority review
  • Type D visa application where required
  • Residence/single-permit issuance after arrival and approval

Typical Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Criminal-record certificate
  • Accommodation evidence
  • Health insurance
  • Proof of sufficient means
  • Qualifications/experience where required for the occupation

Official reference: EU Immigration Portal — Employed Worker in Bulgaria.

FAQ

Bulgaria Work Permit FAQ

Who starts the single-permit process?

The Bulgarian employer generally initiates the approval process with the competent employment authority.

Is a Type D visa required?

For applicants who require a visa to enter Bulgaria for this purpose, a Type D visa is part of the process before residence formalities are completed.

Can I change employer on the same permit?

The standard employed-worker permit is job-specific; a change of employer generally requires a new application.