Bulgaria issued over 36,000 work permits to foreign workers in 2024, marking a 10,000 increase from 2023.

In 2024, Bulgaria granted over 36,000 work permits, marking an increase of nearly 10,000 compared to the previous year. The permits were issued primarily to nationals from non-EU countries, who are required to apply through the National Employment Agency before starting work in Bulgaria. EU and Swiss citizens are exempt from work permit requirements but must register with the local Employment Office.

Top Beneficiaries of Bulgarian Work Permits in 2024

Recent data revealed that the majority of work permits were granted to nationals from the following countries:
Ti rkiye: 8,000
Uzbekistan: About 8,000
Kyrgyzstan: About 5,000
Nepal: 4,500
Moldova: 1,300
Most of these workers received combined residence and work permits, with seasonal employment as the secondary route for foreign nationals. Over 13,400 Seasonal Workers Registered in 2024.

According to Atanaska Todorova, Chief Expert in “Labor Market, Migration, and Mobility,” 13,435 seasonal workers were registered in 2024—a decline of 2,000 compared to 2023. Among seasonal workers, Turkish nationals made up the largest group, with more than 4,200 registered.
Only 800 internationals received an EU Blue Card in 2024, well below employer expectations. The EU Blue Card allows highly skilled foreign professionals to live and work in Bulgaria for a specific employer, but the demand for highly skilled workers remains unmet.

Employers Seek Over 260,000 Workers in Bulgaria

A study by the Employment Agency found that employers in Bulgaria are seeking 262,000 workers across various industries. Despite the need for highly qualified professionals, many companies continue to hire low-skilled foreign workers, including those without secondary education.
Todorova noted that over 40% of foreign workers leave Bulgaria within three months of employment, often moving to Western European countries in search of better opportunities.