Bulgaria is the EU's most affordable member state and a rapidly growing destination for tech talent and digital nomads, with Sofia emerging as a vibrant startup hub. Having achieved full Schengen membership in 2025, Bulgaria now offers unrestricted travel across the Schengen Area. The country's new Digital Nomad Visa — launched in December 2025 — combined with a flat 10% income tax rate, makes it exceptionally attractive for remote workers and freelancers seeking a European base.
2-4 months
Available
Available
The most common route for non-EU nationals seeking employment in Bulgaria. This combined permit authorises both residence and employment with a specific employer for up to three years. A labour market test is required — the employer must demonstrate that no suitable Bulgarian or EU citizen is available for the position.
Eligibility
Duration
Up to 3 years
For highly qualified professionals with a university degree and a salary of at least 1.5 times the average annual gross salary in Bulgaria. The Blue Card provides a streamlined path to long-term residence and allows enhanced intra-EU mobility after an initial period.
Eligibility
Salary Threshold
1.5x average annual gross salary
Duration
Up to the duration of employment + 3 months
Launched in December 2025, Bulgaria's Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers employed by or contracting with non-Bulgarian (non-EU) companies. Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least €31,000. The visa is valid for one year and renewable once for an additional year. Holders benefit from Bulgaria's flat 10% income tax rate and can travel freely throughout the Schengen Area.
Eligibility
Salary Threshold
€31,000/year minimum income
Duration
1 year, renewable once
For non-EU nationals performing temporary seasonal work in sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, and tourism. The permit is tied to a specific employer and seasonal activity, and is valid for the duration of the seasonal contract.
Eligibility
Duration
Duration of seasonal contract (up to 9 months)
Full Schengen membership achieved in 2025 — Bulgarian residence permit holders can now travel freely across all Schengen member states.
Digital Nomad Visa launched in December 2025, targeting remote workers with non-EU employers and offering a competitive 10% flat income tax.
Administrative reform program underway to reduce bureaucratic burdens, including faster processing for shortage occupation applications.
Alignment with the EU Single Permit Directive (2024/1233) — mandatory 90-day processing target to be implemented by May 2026.
The Digital Nomad Visa is open to non-EU nationals who work remotely for a company registered outside the EU (or are self-employed with non-EU clients). You must demonstrate an annual income of at least €31,000, hold valid health insurance, and have a clean criminal record. You cannot engage in local Bulgarian employment while on this visa.
Bulgaria applies a flat 10% income tax rate, which is one of the lowest in the EU. Digital Nomad Visa holders who become tax residents (by spending 183 or more days in Bulgaria) are subject to this rate on their worldwide income. Double taxation agreements with many countries help prevent being taxed twice.
Yes. Since Bulgaria achieved full Schengen membership in 2025, holders of valid Bulgarian residence permits can travel freely throughout the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without requiring additional visas.
The Single Residence and Work Permit typically takes 2-4 months from submission of a complete application. Processing times can vary depending on the caseload at the Migration Directorate and whether all documents are properly prepared, apostilled, and translated.
Find out which work permit programs you qualify for and get a personalized assessment.
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