Recent Amendments to Bulgaria’s Work and Residence Permit Regime

Private Clients Insights, Citizenship and Immigration

As of 27 June 2025, Bulgaria has enacted significant legislative changes affecting the issuance of work and residence permits for foreign nationals. Published in State Gazette No. 52/2025, the amendments concern both the EU Blue Card for highly qualified individuals and the Single Residence and Work Permit. These revisions introduce new compliance requirements and procedural deadlines which applicants and employers alike must take into account.

Key Legislative Updates

1. Mandatory Recognition of Foreign Diplomas

Individuals applying for either the Single Residence and Work Permit or the EU Blue Card based on qualifications obtained abroad must now obtain formal recognition of their diplomas in Bulgaria.

• This requirement applies to degrees issued by foreign universities.
• The certificate confirming recognition must be presented after the applicant has received initial approval from the Migration Directorate.

2. Revised Medical Insurance Requirements

The previous obligation for applicants to hold health insurance covering the entire duration of their permit has been eased.

• Under the new rules, insurance must now cover a minimum of three months, or the period up to the issuance of the permit, whichever is shorter.

3. Extended Visa Application Deadline for Blue Card Applicants

Once initial approval has been granted for a Blue Card application, the applicant now has 30 days (increased from a shorter previous window) to submit their visa application for entry into Bulgaria.

Practical Implications for Applicants and Employers

While these changes do not fundamentally alter the structure of the current application processes, they do introduce new procedural steps and timing considerations. To ensure compliance, applicants should:

• Begin the diploma recognition process at an early stage;
• Secure medical insurance in line with the revised minimum coverage; and
• Observe the 30-day visa application deadline without delay.

Employers supporting international hires should review their internal procedures to reflect these updated requirements and avoid potential delays in onboarding.

How We Can Help

At New Balkans Law Office, we have extensive experience advising clients on Bulgarian immigration and employment matters. Our team remains fully up to date with the 2025 legislative changes and stands ready to provide strategic, end-to-end support—whether for individual applicants or corporate sponsors.

If you require assistance with the Single Residence and Work Permit or the EU Blue Card process, please contact us at sofia@newbalkanslawoffice.com.