Are high-class specialists needed in Bulgaria? Find out about the job market!

Low unemployment rate in Bulgaria

Have you ever thought about the fact that Bulgaria is currently demonstrating an unemployment rate that is significantly lower than the average for European Union countries? This situation raises the question of the demand for professionals in this country. Over the past few years, Bulgaria has successfully overcome its image as a country with a high unemployment rate within the EU. Thanks to the government's active measures, the situation has noticeably improved: by June 2017, the unemployment rate was 6.8%, and by June 2018, it had decreased to 5.7%, which is below the average values for the European Union.

New job openings and the growth of seasonal workers

In the summer of 2018, the Bulgarian Ministry of Labor opened 17,339 new jobs, a significant number of which were created in sectors such as:

• processing industry
• retail trade
• services, including hotels and restaurants

It is noteworthy that in the first half of 2018, the number of seasonal workers coming from non-EU countries doubled. Local authorities began discussions on simplifying the process of obtaining temporary work permits. This mainly concerns specialists from countries such as Ukraine, Russia, and Moldova. For example, in 2016, the most active applications for residence permits in Bulgaria were submitted by citizens:

• Turkey
• Russia
• Ukraine

Shortage of skilled personnel

Burgas Airport warmly welcomes newcomers, but Bulgaria is facing a serious shortage of skilled workers. This deficit has not been felt so acutely in the past eight years. Many Bulgarian companies are actively searching for:

• engineers
• IT specialists
• drivers
• medical workers
• staff for the hotel business
• managers and financiers

Human resources specialists note that the main issues in the search for personnel are not only the shortage of qualified specialists but also their lack of necessary skills and experience.

Reasons for the shortage of personnel

The reasons for this situation are easy to explain. Firstly, significant migration of local specialists to more economically developed countries, where salaries are much higher, plays an important role. Secondly, it is worth noting the growing importance of the tourism industry for Bulgaria's economy. The country has been steadily increasing its income from tourism: according to data for the first 11 months of 2017, Bulgaria earned over 4 million dollars from foreign tourists, and income for the first four months of 2018 increased by 11% compared to the same period in 2017.

Opportunities for qualified specialists

Thus, if you have a high qualification and a desire to spend time in Bulgaria, it will be quite possible to find seasonal work (for example, in the summer on the seaside or in the winter at a mountain resort). One should not forget about the affordable housing prices in this country. Because of this, citizens of Russia and Ukraine are actively purchasing real estate in Bulgaria. For instance, a studio on the Sunny Beach coast can be bought for just $9,000 to $12,000. This is a great opportunity for those who want to invest in foreign real estate or simply enjoy life in this wonderful country.

Don't believe your eyes?

Check out our real estate offers in Bulgaria and see for yourself how attractive they are! You might also be interested in related materials, such as the pros and cons of buying property in Bulgaria, as well as the nuances of owning real estate in this country.

Job search in Bulgaria

If you want to find a job in Bulgaria, keep in mind that it is a small country, and many job openings are often filled through personal connections with friends or relatives. If you don't have such contacts, you should consider traveling to the country on a tourist visa. This will give you a unique opportunity to explore the area, visit employment centers, and talk to representatives of major companies to understand the current trends in your professional field. It is also important to make new acquaintances with locals, as this can positively impact your job search process.

Where to look for a job

It is recommended to focus your efforts on the major cities of the country, such as Sofia, Burgas, and Plovdiv, especially if you are interested in temporary work. The capital of Bulgaria has many job openings and relatively high salaries. In the south-central part of the country, you can also find decent job vacancies, while in the southwestern region, salary levels often remain below average.

Ways to move

The easiest way to move to Bulgaria will be seasonal work. For this, basic knowledge of the Bulgarian language and a work permit will be required.

Job search remotely

If you are planning to look for a remote job, it is recommended to first visit the website of the National Employment Agency of Bulgaria. Here you can find the latest news about the labor market, current job offers, and legal information.

Additional resources for job searching

Among the additional online resources for job searching, you can use the following platforms:

• jobs.bg
• jobtiger.bg
• zaplata.bg
• rabota.bg
• Careers
• alo.bg
• careerjet
• learn4good

They offer the opportunity to find internships and training. Don't forget about Russian-speaking websites, which mainly offer seasonal job vacancies, such as eurabota, jooble, and работа за границей. For those interested in freight transportation and driver vacancies, a useful resource will be driver-bg.eu.

Use of local publications

Additionally, you can use local newspapers such as Trud, Dnevnik, and 24 Chasa to find fresh job offers. The LinkedIn platform is considered a reliable tool for job searching, especially for professionals in fields like IT, architecture, engineering, design, or translation. It's important to have a well-filled profile that highlights your experience and skills. To ensure that recruiters from Bulgaria can find you, don't forget to change your city of residence to one of the Bulgarian cities.

Working with recruitment agencies

You should also pay attention to the opportunities for working through recruitment agencies. Their addresses can be found on the yellowpages website. However, be careful when choosing an agency, especially when it comes to temporary work and if the interaction is only online. There are many unscrupulous companies in Bulgaria that offer...“profitable job openings”for advance payment (for example, for processing the necessary documents). If you come across such offers, make sure to take the time to check the information and reviews about the chosen agency. Remember that your safety should be the top priority in the job search process.

Job search in Bulgaria

To successfully find a job in Bulgaria, it's best to visit the country in person and reach out to specialized agencies that focus on job placement. Don't forget that in addition to the costs of processing all the necessary documents, you may need to pay between 12% to 25% of your first salary as a fee for assistance in finding a suitable position.

Another useful resource could be Yellow Pages, which features the largest companies in Bulgaria across various sectors that may interest you. Consider sending your resume to different potential employers — this could be a good strategy. Additionally, it is highly recommended to subscribe to newsletters related to immigration, investments, and the real estate market abroad.

Language skills

As for language skills, please note that knowledge of Bulgarian is not mandatory, but it is rather a necessity.

Language proficiency requirements

Highly qualified specialists intending to work in the economic sector of Bulgaria must undergo testing in Bulgarian language proficiency. This exam includes both a general and a professionally oriented section, which assesses the skills in specialized vocabulary. In particular, this testing is mandatory for all professionals in the field of medicine.

Conducting exams

It is held at the Qualification Examination and Educational Training Center. On the official website of this center, you can find the schedule of upcoming exams.

Cost of language courses

The price for Bulgarian language courses varies depending on the language department. For example, at Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, the cost of lessons with a tutor starts at $8 per hour, but it can significantly change based on the teacher's level and qualifications.

Information about medical qualifications

It's important to noteThere is comprehensive information on the process of legalizing medical diplomas in the country available on the website of the Bulgarian Ministry of Health.

Work permit

It is also important to remember that having a residence permit does not guarantee automatic employment in Bulgaria. Generally, to work legally, you need to obtain a permit, which must be arranged by your future employer through the local Ministry of Labor.

Exceptions to the rules

Several categories of citizens are considered exceptions:

• Individuals with permanent or long-term residence permits (which can be obtained after five years of living in Bulgaria).
• Close relatives of such citizens.

Who does not need permission

Those who are not subject to obtaining a permit include:

• Employees of foreign companies with representations in Bulgaria.
• Refugees and individuals who have arrived in the country through humanitarian or political programs.
• Members of the board of directors of local companies.
• Families of qualified specialists who have obtained a Blue Card.
• Foreigners arriving on student or pension visas.

Conditions for students and pensioners

However, it is important to remember that students can work no more than 20 hours a week, and for retirees, it is essential to consider not only their age but also the demand for their profession and their work experience, as these factors can significantly affect their chances of employment.

Education and Employment

Studying at accredited higher education institutions in Bulgaria, particularly in Sofia, offers additional job opportunities, but with certain limitations.

The process of obtaining a permit

Overall, the process of obtaining a work permit looks like this:

• You are finding a potential employer.
• You are going for an interview.
• You agree to the terms of employment.
• Your employer is submitting an application to the National Employment Agency along with the necessary documents.

You will need to provide a package of documents that includes copies of your passport, color photographs, as well as diplomas and certificates confirming your qualifications and professional skills.

Introduction

In this article, we will take a detailed look at a number of key points regarding working in Bulgaria and the process of obtaining a work permit. First and foremost, it is essential to carefully analyze how your professional skills and experience can meet the requirements set for a specific vacancy. It is also important to consider why there are no more suitable candidates in the Bulgarian labor market, including applicants from other European Union countries.

Conditions offered by employers

Employers, for their part, have the right to set specific conditions offered to new employees. These include:

• social guarantees;
• paid vacations;
• sick leave benefits;
• work schedule;
• salary level.

This last point is especially important for those who intend to apply forblue card.

The process of obtaining a work permit

As for the process of obtaining a work permit, its duration ranges from 15 to 30 days depending on the demand for your profession. Usually, such a permit is issued for a period of one year, which corresponds to the duration of the employment contract, with the possibility of extension. However, it is important to remember that during this entire time, you are required to work for the company that hired you. If you change employers, you will have to restart the process of obtaining a permit.

Seasonal jobs

Workers engaged inseasonal professionsThey also need to obtain permission, but it will only be valid for the duration of specific work. In order to move to Bulgaria for employment purposes, you will needlong-term visa category DTo obtain it, you should contact the Bulgarian consulate in your country or in the nearest state.

Necessary documents

Among the documents you will need, the following can be highlighted:

• filled-out questionnaire;
• certificate of proficiency in the Bulgarian language (this requirement may vary depending on the specialty);
• a foreign passport, the validity of which must exceed 1.5 years;
• color photographs of a specific format;
• medical insurance with a minimum coverage of 35 thousand dollars;
• a certificate of no criminal record;
• a bank statement confirming the availability of funds for the initial period (a guarantee from the employer is accepted as an alternative).

In addition, you will need a work permit and an employment contract, as well as a document confirming your housing in Bulgaria (this can be a purchase or rental agreement).

Financial aspects of waiting for a visa

One of the less pleasant aspects is that while waiting for the visa (which can take about a month), you may have to pay for housing even before moving. However, this step is necessary for successfully obtaining the visa.

Housing search

You don't necessarily have to go to Bulgaria in person to search for housing; you can authorize a local person (a friend, an agency representative, or a company employee) to help you with the search and preparation of the rental. For example, if you decide to rent an apartment in Varna, you will be able to enjoy a beautiful view of the sea.

Registration and obtaining a residence permit

In general, the visa application process usually takes about a month, after which you need to register at the local migration office within three months of your arrival in the country. After that, obtaining a residence permit will take 1.5 to 2 weeks. Although this process may seem complicated and lengthy, careful planning and following all the necessary steps will significantly simplify your task of finding employment in Bulgaria.

Prospects for employment in Bulgaria

If you have qualifications in one of the highly sought-after fields, you have a great opportunity to consider job offers in Bulgaria and start preparing for a move to this country. Some of the most relevant professions include:

• engineers and architects;
• construction specialists, such as electricians, masons, carpenters, and other skilled workers;
• drivers;
• medical workers, including doctors and nursing staff;
• operators of production processes;
• seasonal workers engaged in various fields, from agriculture and manufacturing to hospitality and construction;
• financial specialists and accountants;
• IT experts;
• teachers.

The level of wages and its changes

As for the salary level, the minimum wage in Bulgaria is reviewed by the government annually, based on a 40-hour work week. At the beginning of 2018, it was306 US dollarsper month, and the hourly rate was1.8 dollarsAlthough these amounts may not seem very high, it is worth emphasizing that the minimum wage has increased by almost10%compared to 2017 and has increased by47%over the past six years.

Nevertheless, when compared to other countries in the European Union, the minimum wage level in Bulgaria still remains low. It is worth noting, however, that the cost of living here is lower than in most other European countries.

Average income and its impact on career choice

It should also be mentioned that after taxes, the average salary is500 dollars...while before taxation this figure reached...646 dollarsThe level of income depends on many factors:

• worker's qualification;
• work experience;
• specifics of the activity;
• place of residence.

For example, in the capital Sofia, the average salary is870 dollarsin Varna —510 dollarsIn Vidin and Haskovo — only420-450 dollars.

Comparison of salaries by profession

If we look at the average salaries for different professions, we can highlight the following examples:

• IT specialistscan earn from1500 to 1600 dollarsand the most experienced professionals sometimes achieve3500-5000 dollars.
• Architectsreceive from1500 dollarsfor beginners up to4000 dollarsfor professionals with extensive experience.
• Truck driverscan expect a salary starting from1500 to 2500 dollars.
• Financiers—1000-2000 dollars.
• Doctorsmainly earn from800 to 1000 dollars.
• Medical staff— from500 to 700 dollars.
• Workers in the construction sectorand production workers —500-700 dollars.
• Teachersandteachersusually start from500 dollars.
• Seasonal workersoften receive300-400 dollarsper month.

Job search tips in Bulgaria

If you plan to work seasonally in Bulgaria, be sure to clarify the terms of your contract. Some employers may promise free meals and accommodation, but in practice, such expenses may be deducted from your salary or only provided as assistance in finding housing.

The tax system in Bulgaria

As for the tax system in the country, taxes in Bulgaria are significantly lower than in most European Union countries. The income tax is set at the level of10%. At the same time, the income before70 dollarsfor hired workers and beyond120 dollarsare not subject to taxation for individual entrepreneurs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that Bulgaria, with its growing employment rate and shortage of skilled professionals, presents an excellent opportunity for foreigners looking to find work and live in this beautiful country. Statistics indicate that the unemployment rate in the region is decreasing, creating favorable conditions for those seeking new professional horizons. Especially for highly qualified specialists, jobs in the fields of IT, engineering, and medicine have become more accessible due to high demand and attractive working conditions.

Why should one consider Bulgaria?

It is also worth noting that Bulgaria is famous not only for its low real estate prices but also for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. This makes the country even more attractive for those who want to not only work but also enjoy life in person. The opportunity to buy affordable housing, such as studio apartments on the Black Sea coast, allows one to not only spend the summer temporarily but also make an investment for the future.

Preparation for moving

Nevertheless, don't forget the importance of researching the job market before moving. There are many resources that can help you with this:

• National Employment Agency
• Specialized platforms for job searching

Make sure to prepare in advance by studying the employers' requirements and workers' rights in Bulgaria.

Your new opportunities

If you are ready to take a step towards new opportunities and changes in life, Bulgaria is eagerly waiting for you. Don't miss the chance to be part of this growing economy and gain a unique experience of working and living in a country where traditions meet modern trends.

Result

In conclusion, I am convinced that with the necessary skills and experience, you will easily find your place in the Bulgarian professional community. And who knows, perhaps your next job will be the beginning of an amazing adventure — an adventure that will bring you not only career growth but also personal happiness in the heart of the Balkans. So start packing and take action — your future is in your hands!