Following the collapse of the Soviet bloc in 1990, Bulgaria has transformed from a centrally planned economy into a dynamic player on the regional market with a low unemployment rate (approx. 4% as of late 2024), attractive tax rates, and a focus on digital, electronic, green-energy, and construction sectors. Often called a Silicon Valley of Southeastern Europe, the country is to join the euro area on January 1, 2026, while the mix of EU membership benefits and comparatively low cost of living makes Bulgaria increasingly attractive to international companies and expats alike.

‍

The local Black Sea coast and mountain resorts have long been popular among European tourists, and the recent trend of ‘staycations’ brings digital nomads to cities like Sofia and Plovdiv for extended periods of time. More and more newcomers appreciate the blend of a relatively affordable lifestyle, natural beauty, and access to EU travel (Bulgaria has been in the Schengen area since 2024).

‍

‍

In this expat guide, we explore in-demand industries that offer opportunities for international employees and entrepreneurs, the various visa paths available in 2025, the local tax landscape, the most popular expat hubs, key living essentials, as well as the potential challenges of work- and business-related relocation to Bulgaria, and how to overcome them.

‍

‍

What are the most in-demand sectors for international employment in Bulgaria?

Bulgaria’s cultural identity, influenced by Balkan, Greek, and Slavic heritage, shapes a population with a deep-rooted local image and a broad European perspective. The country’s talent pool is known for its strong technical education, multilingual proficiency, and adaptability. For international employers, Bulgaria has become a beloved destination in sectors such as IT, engineering, automotive, and logistics. Rapid integration into the EU economy creates demand to hire international employees along with locals.

‍

At present, the ICT sector is the key driver of the country’s economy, with fast-growing niches including software development, cybersecurity, fintech, and cloud services. Major multinational companies operate R&D and IT outsourcing centers here, and the job market offers abundant opportunities for qualified professionals from abroad. Cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna host growing international communities of developers, financial specialists, and multilingual customer support teams.

‍

European companies continuously grow their presence in Bulgaria in the engineering, automotive, and electronics manufacturing industries. Due to sustained foreign investment and EU digitalization programs, these sectors are expanding and creating job opportunities for locals and internationals alike. Specifically, expats in engineering or technical fields find roles in factories and export-oriented firms.

‍

Aligned with EU climate goals, Bulgaria invests in solar, wind and sustainable technologies. Green economy support industries, such as electric vehicles and energy efficiency, are a focus of the nation’s 2025 economic plan. More and more job opportunities are emerging for skilled professionals in renewable energy, environmental engineering, and clean tech R&D.

‍

After pandemic setbacks, the country is reviving the tourism industry. Destinations along the Black Sea coast and mountain resorts offer not only seasonal jobs, but also long-term hospitality management and investment roles. Destinations like Sofia and Plovdiv with growing communities of digital nomads and booming cultural tourism also create opportunities for experts in hospitality and event management.

‍

‍

How attractive is Bulgaria’s tax system for expats and businesses?

The short answer is: one of the most attractive in Europe.

‍

The country offers a flat 10% tax rate for personal and corporate income, and non-residents are taxed only on their Bulgarian-sourced income. This low rate applies to salaries, business income, and capital gains, although some double-tax treaties may modify this for foreigners. A 5% tax applies to dividends (with some credits available), while real estate and property taxes are modest (up to 0.45% by municipality). There is no net wealth or inheritance tax on individuals.

‍

Like other EU countries, Bulgaria has a mandatory social security and health insurance for employees. Total payroll contributions are approx. 32.7-33.4% of gross salary, and in practice, employers add roughly 20% on top of gross salary for social charges, while employees see approx. 14% withheld. These contributions also apply to EU nationals with non-Bulgarian citizenship (unless they already pay those in their home countries) and non-EU nationals with a permanent residence permit.

‍

In other words, by European standards, the Bulgarian tax regime is extremely lucrative for individuals and companies, and often becomes a major decisive factor in work or business-related relocation.

‍

‍

‍

What types of visas are available for expats in Bulgaria?

As of 2025, non-EU nationals can relocate to Bulgaria for business, employment, or self-employment purposes through the following visa paths:

‍

• Work (Category D) Visa. This type is suitable for individuals hired by companies that operate in Bulgaria. The employer must first obtain approval from the Bulgarian Employment Agency, as there is a labor market test for non-Bulgarian/EU/Swiss nationals. Once approved, the candidate enters Bulgaria and obtains a residence permit with the purpose of employment, which is valid for 1 year and can be further renewed for up to 3 years.

‍

• The EU Blue Card. This type is suitable for highly qualified professionals with an employment contract valid for at least 6 months from a Bulgaria-based company and a salary that meets the required threshold – at least 1.5 times the nation’s average gross annual rate. Once issued, the EU Blue Card is valid for 2 to 5 years.

‍

• Self-Employment Permit. This type is suitable for entrepreneurs and freelancers with a Bulgarian-sourced income. To be eligible for it, the applicant must provide a detailed business plan, evidence of experience/education relevant to their planned activity, and proof of Bulgarian language proficiency (B1 certificate). The permit is valid for 1 year and can be further renewed for up to 3 years. Investors may alternatively apply for the “Golden Visa” by investing 512,000 EUR in approved government bonds or funds. This route secures a permanent residence permit and eventual citizenship.

‍

• Digital Nomad Visa. This type was introduced in mid-2025 and is suitable for remote workers employed by foreign companies, as well as freelancers with foreign income. It is valid for 1 year, with the possibility of further renewal. Applicants should be aware that, once issued, a Digital Nomad Visa obliges them to enroll in the Bulgarian social security system for the duration of their stay.

‍

‍

What is life like for expats in Bulgaria?

Internationals who move to the country’s capital, Sofia, or other popular destinations like Plovdiv and the coastal Varna and Burgas, report a comfortable balance between the affordable cost of living in Bulgaria and European convenience when it comes to living essentials. Consumer prices in Bulgaria are approx. 40-50% lower than in Western Europe, yet the quality of daily life continues to improve. Monthly rental costs for one-bedroom apartments in big cities range from EUR 300-500 in Plovdiv to EUR 500-700 in central and sought-after areas in Sofia.

‍

Those who settle here long-term with families report a broad choice of public and international schools. Public education is free, but all instruction is in Bulgarian, so many expats opt for international schools that follow American, British, or IB curricula, where annual tuition fees range from EUR 10,000 to EUR 15,000. Public healthcare is accessible countrywide, and private insurance, while being relatively affordable, grants access to quicker service and better quality facilities.

‍

Outside work, locals and expats appreciate the relaxed rhythm of life, low crime rates, good internet connectivity, a strong café culture, mild climate, and domestic resorts on the Black Sea coast and in the Rhodope Mountains. In short, Bulgaria is a great destination for those seeking a safe, affordable, and well-connected base in Europe.

‍

‍

Are you interested in moving to Bulgaria for work? Or are you representing a business and exploring the fastest and safest way to relocate your team there?

Navigating all administrative steps alone, dealing with exclusively Bulgarian-speaking governmental offices, and facing potential currency transition issues (the country is currently in the process of adopting the euro) is frustrating and resource-intensive. Luckily, there are alternative cost-effective hiring solutions that simplify and speed up the relocation process.

‍

To employers, we offer an EOR service: we hire and manage teams locally on your behalf without the need to establish a legal entity. For employees and remote workers, our Umbrella Company solution works best: we handle your employment, allowing you to live and pay taxes in Bulgaria while working for a foreign employer.‍

‍

Our team has an in-depth understanding of the local landscape and is happy to provide you with detailed information. Book a meeting with our expert or submit a request form, and we’ll be in touch with you soon!