Bulgaria adopted the euro in 2026 and adjusted its rules and pay thresholds for foreign workers, while maintaining one of the most accessible EU Blue Cards. This guide explains the latest rules in plain English.

The figures change regularly, so always confirm the current thresholds before you act.

The Big Picture

From 1 January 2026, Bulgaria uses the euro. Citizens of the EU, the EEA and Switzerland can work freely. Other workers need a permit, most commonly the Single Permit for standard employment or the EU Blue Card for highly qualified roles, with seasonal, intra-company transfer and freelance routes also available.

Pay and the Minimum Wage

The national minimum wage is EUR 620.20 per month from 1 January 2026 (up from around EUR 550), and foreign workers must receive at least the market rate paid to Bulgarian staff for the same work. Bulgaria also has the lowest flat income tax in the EU at 10%.

The Single Permit

The Single Permit combines residence and work and requires a labour market test, meaning the employer shows that no suitable Bulgarian or EU worker is available. It is generally valid for up to three years and should be renewed at least 14 days before it expires. Since 1 July 2025, employers must enrol Single Permit holders in the mandatory health insurance system on the same basis as Bulgarian nationals.

The EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is for highly qualified workers and requires a salary of at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary, which works out to roughly EUR 2,000 per month in 2026 (the figure is updated regularly and is low by Western European standards). There is no labour market test, the card can be valid for up to five years, and applicants can qualify through a degree, five years of experience, or a special list for IT roles. When relying on a foreign degree, recognition of that diploma is now mandatory.

What Foreign Workers and Employers Should Do

• Confirm pay meets the minimum wage or the Blue Card threshold for skilled roles.
• Plan for the labour market test on the Single Permit route.
• Arrange diploma recognition early when a foreign degree is used.
• Renew the Single Permit at least 14 days before expiry.

Quick Summary

1. Bulgaria adopted the euro on 1 January 2026, with an EU minimum wage of EUR 620.20
2. The Single Permit requires a labour market test and is valid for up to 3 years.
3. The EU Blue Card requires earning about 1.5 times the average wage and can last up to 5 years.
4. A flat 10% income tax makes Bulgaria attractive for skilled workers.