The Republic of Bulgaria is situated in Southeast Europe, one of the 11 Balkan countries, and the most recent to join the European Union. The country showcases a rich and diversified culture, temperate climate, and strategically ideal location.
For the people of Pakistan, visiting and working in Bulgaria for any length of time will require a visa. Usually, a tourist visa is valid for 90 days, during which the holder has tourist status. A travel visa holder may engage in business meetings; however, any financial and commercial activity is prohibited. Hundreds of Pakistanis apply for residence in Bulgaria each year through various methods such as investment, student exchange, work permits, etc.
Investor program for residence
The investor program for residence was initiated in 1986, and since then it has been an alternative method to obtain permanent residence in Bulgaria. Among numerous benefits that are attached to having a permanent residence through investment, some are:
- Just takes 6 to 9 months to obtain a residency
- Fast-track to citizenship (2 years)
- Exemptions as to physical presence in the country
- State-approved investment options and bank financing
- No language requirements
- Exempt from relinquishing current nationality
- Attractive low tax rates
- Free-trade within EU
- Free movement within the Schengen region (after Bulgaria becomes a member state)
- Healthcare benefits
- Tax exemptions (conditions apply)
Investment options
The government of Bulgaria offers 5 types of investment options to foreigners based on the amount invested. Starting from UD$ 250,000, a foreigner can invest in the capital structure of a Bulgarian company. The capital shall be used to procure assets (tangible/intangible) and create employment for at least 10 Belgians. Similarly, as the number of investments increases so do the privileges; the requirements for each level of investment also change accordingly.
Immigration through employment
The Bulgarian government is very selective when it comes to issuing work permits. Bulgaria is a popular destination among expatriates and foreigners due to its stable economy and progressive policies, hence thousands of people apply for work permits each year. A strict criterion ensures that only the most required and beneficial people join the country’s workforce.
Firstly, a Bulgarian work permit can only be applied for by the employer; on the condition that the position is impossible to be filled by an unemployed Bulgarian citizen. Secondly, the immigration department does not issue an open work permit; that is, the applicant has to secure a job before arrival. The bearer can only work with the same company or employer and in the same position as mentioned in the work permit.
Lastly, once the work permit is issued, the employee shall apply for the long-term visa D for the employee which will require the submission of certain documents and an interview.
Documents required for a work permit
The requirements regarding a work permit may change from time to time, and it is advised that the official website or an agent be consulted to obtain the most updated requirements. Below are a few basic mandatory requirements.
- Passport-sized photographs of the employee (3 nos.)
- Copy of the employee’s passport
- Purpose and reason for obtaining a work permit
- Employer’s certificate of incorporation in Bulgaria
- Contract of employment (terms, conditions, requirements, etc.)
- Academic qualifications (degrees, courses, training, etc.)
- Work experience documents (letters, honors, achievements, awards, etc.)
Requirement for visa type D application
- Copy of passport of the applicant
- A passport-sized photograph
- Reason to travel with proof (work permit, employment contract, etc.)
- Medical insurance
- Accommodation in Bulgaria
- Proof of sufficient financial means to support a decent subsistence
Note, in case the company is not incorporated in Bulgaria, another company can be used as the employer of record.
