EU nationals, citizens of EEA member states and citizens of Switzerland enjoy the right of free movement within the EU. They do not need to obtain a work permit or register with the Employment Agency to work or engage in self-employment activities in Bulgaria.

Individuals not enjoying preferential treatment who intend to work in the country under a local employment contract or under the terms of a secondment must obtain a work permit from the Employment Agency.

Applications for work permits are submitted by the intended employer. Individua ls who obtain work permits are authorized to work for only that employer

Work permits are issued to foreign nationals who possess proper education, special skills or professional experience, suitable to the position they intend to take. In most cases, the Bulgarian employer must perform a labor market test to establish the lack of Bulgarians and individuals enjoying preferential treatment who are suitable for the position. The market test requirement can be avoided under specific circumstances.