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In 2023, most foreigners employed in Bulgaria came for seasonal work

Photo: Georgi Neykov, BNR

Over 12,000 foreigners from non-EU countries have received various types of work permits in the country since the beginning of the year. 

According to the Employment Agency, construction is the main sector in which foreigners in Bulgaria are employed, with the largest number of them in Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, Burgas and Elin Pelin. 

6,837 people from non-EU countries registered for seasonal employment of up to 90 days. They worked in the hotel and restaurant industry, as well as in agriculture, forestry and fishing. 

There are 156 foreigners of Bulgarian origin registered to work in Bulgaria: from Moldova – 54; Russia – 49; Serbia – 28; Ukraine - 19 and North Macedonia - 5. They are mainly employed under bilateral employment agreements between Bulgaria and the respective country. 

2,134 citizens of third countries work in Bulgaria with the EU Blue Card for highly qualified employment.




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