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Work permits in Bulgaria are approved by a central government authority, with involvement from immigration and labor offices. Understanding who approves and verifies Bulgarian work permits is essential for both employers and foreign workers.
Main Authority Responsible for Work Permit Approval
The Employment Agency of Bulgaria is the primary authority responsible for approving work permits for non-EU nationals.
This agency operates under Bulgaria’s Ministry of Labour and Social Policy and is responsible for:
- Reviewing employer applications
- Assessing labor market needs
- Issuing work permit approvals
- Managing employment quotas for foreign workers
Without approval from the Employment Agency, a work permit cannot be issued.
Role of Bulgarian Immigration Authorities
Once the work permit is approved, Bulgarian immigration authorities handle the residence aspect.
These include:
- The Migration Directorate under the Ministry of Interior
- Local immigration offices
They are responsible for:
- Issuing residence permits
- Registering foreign workers
- Monitoring legal stay and work conditions
A valid work permit alone is not enough; residence authorization is also required.
Employer’s Responsibility in the Approval Process
In Bulgaria:
- The employer must apply for the work permit
- The worker cannot self-apply
- The permit is job-specific and employer-specific
Employers must submit:
- Employment contracts
- Company registration documents
- Proof that hiring a foreign worker meets labor regulations
Can Bulgarian Work Permits Be Verified?
Yes. Employers and authorities can verify Bulgarian work permits by:
- Checking approval records with the Employment Agency
- Reviewing residence permit details with immigration offices
- Confirming employer registration and permit validity
Work permit verification is essential to prevent illegal employment and document fraud.
Key Takeaway
Work permits in Bulgaria are approved by the Employment Agency, under the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, with residence permits issued by immigration authorities. Employer sponsorship and official approval are mandatory before a foreign national can work legally.
Verifying the issuing authority helps ensure the work permit is genuine and compliant.
January 8, 2026
