Изменения в режима на "Синя карта на ЕС" в България

Significant changes to the EU Blue Card regime in Bulgaria (2025)

Bulgarian legislation concerning the residence and employment of foreigners has undergone significant updates with the publication of amendments to the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria ActState Gazette No. 52 of 2025). These changes are directly related to the transposition of Директива (ЕС) 2021/1883, Directive (EU) 2021/1883, which aims to facilitate the attraction and retention of highly qualified professionals from third countries in the European Union.

General conditions for acquisition and period of validity

According to Article 33k of the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act, a long-term residence and work permit of the "EU Blue Card" type may be obtained by foreigners who meet the conditions for highly qualified employment under Bulgarian law.An important innovation is the card can now be issued to persons who hold a visa under Article 15(1) or another long-term residence permit in Bulgaria, which is subsequently replaced bythe Blue Card“The permit is issued for a period of up to 5 years, but not less than 24 months. If the employment contract is for a shorter period, the permit is issued for the term of the contract, extended by three months, but for a maximum of 24 months. There is also a possibility for renewal.

Simplified application process and joint responsibility

The application process has been simplified. Applications can be submitted on paper or electronically by the employer, an authorized representative, or the foreign national themselves, and can now be submitted to the Migration Directorate regardless of the foreign national's address of residence.

A key change introducing joint responsibility relates to reporting after entering the country. Within 14 days of the foreigner's entry with a visa under Article 15, paragraph 1, the employer or a person authorized by him is required to appear together with the foreigner at the Migration Directorate. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in the termination of the permit issuance procedure.

Documentation and processing times

Standard documents such as a copy of your passport and a criminal record certificate (for first-time applicants) must be submitted with your application for an EU Blue Card. A new requirement is compulsory medical insurance, valid for at least three monthsor until the card is issued. An important addition is the new requirement for a certificate from the National Center for Information and Documentation (NACID) for the recognition of higher education obtained abroad.

The Migration Directorate checks the documents and, if necessary, notifies the applicant of any missing information, giving a 10-day deadline to rectify the irregularities. Applications are sent for review to the Employment Agency and the State Agency for National Security (DANS). The total time for reviewing the application cannot exceed 3 months.

Flexibility for Blue Card holders and mobility within the EU

Significant relief is provided when changing employers or positions:

During the first 12 months of highly qualified employment, when changing employers, the new employer or the foreigner submits an application for change, requiring an opinion from the Employment Agency.
After the first 12 months, changing employers or positions in the same sector is subject to a simplified procedure, whereby the new employer submits an application with the necessary documents and the Employment Agency gives its opinion. The Migration Directorate notifies the State Agency for National Security (SANS) of the change.

Greater mobility between Member States is also being introduced:

Holders of an "EU Blue Card"issued by another Member State may move to Bulgaria after having resided legally in that country for six months.
Short-term stays in Bulgaria for work purposes (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) are also possible without additional permits if the holder has a valid "Blue Card"issued by another Member State.
If residence in another Member State for a period exceeding 90 days is refused, the holder of an "EU Blue Card" shall bear the costs of his or her return to Bulgaria, as well as those of his or her family members.

Long-term residence status and right to pursue a liberal profession

Holders of an "EU Blue Card" may obtain long-term residence status in Bulgaria if they have resided legally and continuously in the territory of Member States as "Blue Card"holders for five years, with the last two years having been spent in the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria. Similar conditions apply to family members.

An important change is that "EU Blue Card" holders can now work as freelancers while also having a highly skilled job, but only in the sector they got the permit for.

Conclusion

These comprehensive amendments to the Foreigners Act are a key step towards modernising and harmonising Bulgarian legislation with European requirements. In order to take full advantage of the clearer, faster, and more flexible procedures for residence and work, it is extremely important that both foreigners and their employers familiarize themselves with the new provisions in detail. This will ensure a smooth process and prevent potential difficulties.

KGK Law Firm's team has significant experience in the field of labor migration. For more information or assistance, please contact us.