Highly skilled employment type Blue Card
The "EU Blue Card" is a residence and work permit issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) for third-country nationals seeking high-skilled jobs in Bulgaria. The procedure is in accordance with Directive 2009/50/EC and includes a positive opinion from the Employment Agency regarding access to the Bulgarian labor market.
Validity period of the permit:
- Issued for a period of up to 5 years, with a minimum period of 24 months.
- If the employment contract is shorter than 24 months, the permit is issued for the duration of the contract, extended by three months, but no more than 24 months.
- The permit can be renewed if there is a valid reason.
Candidates are not required to leave Bulgaria when applying for the first time.
Conditions for access to the labor market:
Access to the labor market is regulated by the Foreign Nationals Act and the Labor Migration Act. Access is granted for positions that do not require Bulgarian citizenship, provided that:
- The foreigner holds a higher education degree (certified with a diploma).
- Has professional experience (equivalent to higher education).
- Possesses specific knowledge and skills, certified with a document from an approved list.
Required documents:
- Application in the prescribed form – Appendix 3a of the PPZCHR.
- Copy of passport or other personal identification document.
- Criminal record certificate – issued by the country of citizenship or habitual residence.
- Proof of secured housing.
- Employer’s justification for the application.
- Documents for education and experience – legalized and translated into Bulgarian.
- Employer’s declaration of compliance with labor conditions and payment.
- Certified copy of fixed-term employment contract.
- Copy of job description, if applicable.
- Regulated profession document, if required.
- Medical insurance for the duration of stay.
- Other documents required by Bulgarian legislation.
If recognition of professional qualification is required, the relevant permit or license applies.
Why choose the "EU Blue Card"?
The "EU Blue Card" provides unique opportunities for highly qualified specialists who wish to develop their careers in Bulgaria and take advantage of the opportunities in the European labor market.