Securing an internship or job placement in Bulgaria involves distinct pathways for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens (who enjoy free movement and equal access to the Bulgarian labor market) and Non-EU nationals (who require specific visa and residence authorizations). 

1. Internship Pathways (Стаж / Stazh)

Internships in Bulgaria are governed by the Labor Code and Migration Directorate rules.

• University Curriculum Internships:

  • If you are a student enrolled at a Bulgarian university (or an exchange program like Erasmus+), your Student Visa (Type D) permits part-time work and internship placements alongside your studies.

• Post-Graduate and External Traineeships:

  • Foreign graduates (degree completed within the last 2 years) or current students abroad can enter under a Type D Trainee Visa / Residence Permit.

  • Requires a formal Internship Agreement (Договор за стаж) signed with a Bulgarian company, providing a structured training plan and a stipend.

• Post-Graduation Job Search Window: Non-EU students who graduate from a recognized university in Bulgaria can extend their residence permit for up to 9 months to seek full-time employment.

2. General Application Steps (Non-EU Citizens)

• 1. We secure a job offer or Internship Agreement for you:

• Execute a binding employment contract or internship agreement with a registered Bulgarian employer.

• 2. Employer Files for Authorization in Bulgaria:

• The Bulgarian employer submits the permit application file directly to the Bulgarian Migration Directorate / Employment Agency.

• 3. We apply for a Type D visa at the Embassy:

• Once immigration authorities approve the authorization, we submit your Type D Long-Stay Visa application at the Bulgarian consulate in your home country.

• 4. In-Country Permit Issuance:

• After entering Bulgaria on your Visa D, report to the local Migration Office to complete biometrics and receive your physical Single Permit / Residence Card.

3. Primary Job Sectors and Search Platforms

• Key Industries: Information Technology and Software Development (Sofia is a major South-Eastern European tech hub), Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) / Shared Services (multilingual customer support, accounting, and HR), Tourism and Hospitality (Bansko, Sunny Beach, Varna), and Manufacturing/Engineering.

Experience European hospitality in Bulgaria’s coastal and mountain resorts.

• Duration: 6–12 months

• Benefits: Housing & meals provided, stipend €480–€600

• Fields: Food & Beverage, Front Office, Culinary, Housekeeping

• Outcome: Gain hands‑on experience in international hospitality operations while enjoying Bulgaria’s cultural heritage.