Blue card

Blue card and working permission

Overview

Bulgaria offers a clear and structured framework of residence and work permits for third-country nationals, covering a wide range of personal and professional situations. Whether you are a highly qualified professional seeking an EU Blue Card, an employed worker applying for a Single Work Permit, a pensioner relocating to Bulgaria, or a seasonal employee — there is a legally defined route for your circumstances.

Our team provides end-to-end assistance, from document preparation and certified translation to submission and full representation before Bulgarian migration authorities. Below you will find a description of each permit type, eligibility requirements, and a transparent breakdown of our service fees.

Permit Types at a Glance

EU Blue Card in Bulgaria – Complete Guide for Highly Qualified Workers

What Is the EU Blue Card?

The EU Blue Card is a combined residence and work permit that allows highly qualified non-EU nationals to live and work in Bulgaria. It is one of the most advantageous immigration routes available, offering a streamlined process, reduced administrative burden, and long-term stability for both the employee and the employer.

The EU Blue Card is issued by 25 EU member states, including Bulgaria. It is specifically designed for professionals with verified qualifications and a qualifying employment contract — and in Bulgaria, it comes with one of the most accessible salary thresholds in the EU.

Why Choose the EU Blue Card Route in Bulgaria?

Eligibility Requirements for the EU Blue Card in Bulgaria

To qualify for an EU Blue Card in Bulgaria, the applicant must meet both of the following conditions:

1. Educational Qualification

A valid university diploma received from an accredited institution of higher education, upon completion of a regular course of study of not less than three and a half years, recognised under the legislation of the country where the diploma was issued.

2. Minimum Salary Threshold

The gross annual salary specified in the employment contract must be at least €23,500 (2026 figure) — representing 1.5 times the average annual salary in Bulgaria for the preceding 12 months.

The EU Blue Card Procedure — Step by Step

Before the applicant’s arrival, the employer must apply for approval for the issuance of a work permit (EU Blue Card) with the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy.

Single Residence and Work Permit (SRWP) — Alternative Route

For applicants who do not meet the EU Blue Card salary or qualification thresholds, Bulgaria also offers a Single Residence and Work Permit (SRWP) — a combined residence and work permit for non-EU nationals who meet specific conditions and have obtained a Type D visa or already hold another residence permit in Bulgaria.

Required Documents

The following documents are required as part of the application process:

*All documents prepared abroad must be legalised and accompanied by a translation certified by a notary or by the Consular Relations Directorate of the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

NBS Fee Quotation

*All prices are exclusive of VAT.

Scope of Services

NBS provides end-to-end support throughout the entire EU Blue Card procedure, including:

2. Single Work Permit (Art. 24i)

The Single Work Permit is a combined residence and work permit issued under Art. 24i of the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act. It grants third-country nationals the right to legally live and work in Bulgaria for a specific employer for up to 3 years. Unlike the EU Blue Card, it has no fixed minimum salary and does not require a university degree, making it accessible to a broader range of employed workers across all sectors.

Single Work Permit – Service Fees

The advance is due upon initiating the procedure and is non-refundable.

3. Residence Permit for Pensioners

Designed for third-country nationals who receive a pension and wish to reside long-term in Bulgaria. The application requires proof of regular pension income, valid health insurance, and secured accommodation. Our service covers the full preparation and submission of the application package, ensuring all documents meet the requirements of the Bulgarian migration authorities.

Pensioner Residence Permit – Service Fees

* The price does not include assistance with obtaining a Visa D — it covers the residence permit procedure only.

4. Permanent Residence

A procedure for obtaining permanent residency status in Bulgaria. Eligible grounds include long-term lawful stay, investment, family reunification, and others. The final price varies depending on the specific legal basis, the complexity of the case, and the documents required. A personal consultation is recommended to determine the applicable ground and the exact scope of services needed.

Permanent Residence – Service Fees (Minimum)

The final fee is determined individually after consultation and review of documents.

5. Seasonal Work Permit

Intended for third-country nationals employed on a seasonal basis in agriculture, tourism, or construction. The permit is issued for a specific employer and season, and is valid for up to 9 months. Our fee is calculated as a percentage of the agreed seasonal salary, ensuring transparent and proportionate pricing relative to the scope of the engagement.

Seasonal Work Permit – Service Fees

Permit Comparison