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    Lex Europa · Licensed Bulgarian Lawyer

    Bulgaria Work Visa Type D

    Long-stay Type D visa and work authorisation for non-EU nationals hired by a Bulgarian employer.

    Legal service from

    EUR 3,000

    Typical timeline

    2–4 months

    Who this is for

    • Non-EU workers with an offer from a Bulgarian employer
    • Employers hiring foreign staff
    • Applicants who do not meet Blue Card thresholds
    • Workers planning longer-term residence

    Key facts

    Legal service from
    EUR 3,000
    Typical timeline
    2–4 months
    Family members
    Family reunification subject to conditions
    Permanent residence / citizenship
    Permanent residence after 5 years of lawful stay

    How it works

    1. 01

      Legal assessment

      We review your nationality, background, family and goals to confirm eligibility.

    2. 02

      Strategy

      You receive a written plan with the recommended route, costs and timeline.

    3. 03

      Legal preparation

      We prepare the work permit file with your employer and your Type D visa documents.

    4. 04

      Representation

      We file with the Employment Agency and migration authorities and follow the case.

    5. 05

      Residence

      After entry on the Type D visa you obtain your residence and work permit.

    Why Bulgaria

    10%

    Flat corporate tax

    Schengen

    Full Schengen member

    Euro

    Currency since January 2026

    5 years

    To permanent residence; citizenship subject to naturalisation rules

    Frequently asked questions

    What is a Type D visa?

    A national long-stay visa that allows entry to Bulgaria to obtain a residence permit, for example for employment.

    Do I need an employer first?

    Yes, a Bulgarian employer must support the work permit application.

    How is it different from the Blue Card?

    The Blue Card is for highly qualified, higher-salary positions. The Type D work route covers a wider range of jobs.

    Where do I apply for the visa?

    Usually at the Bulgarian consulate in your country of residence, after the work permit is approved.

    Can my family join?

    Family reunification may be possible once you hold a residence permit, subject to legal conditions.

    Book a consultation

    Tell us about your situation. A licensed Bulgarian lawyer will reply personally, usually within one business day.

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    Lex Europa is a private law practice. We are not affiliated with or acting on behalf of any Bulgarian or EU government authority. Official state fees are paid directly to the competent authorities. Official information: Ministry of Interior (mvr.bg) and Ministry of Foreign Affairs (mfa.bg).