SHORTAGE OCCUPATIONS IN BULGARIA
Bulgaria has been a member of the European Union since 2007, but in more than 15 years the country has not even managed to approach the level of economic development to the successful members of this association. It has a weak labor market and low wages, and elements of corruption and bureaucracy are still found. Unfortunately, experts very often include Bulgaria in the list of the poorest countries in Europe.
Nevertheless, life in Bulgaria has a number of advantages, including reasonable prices, low taxes, comfortable climate and beautiful nature. Holders of professions that are scarce on the local labor market have vacancies in large companies, and some foreigners start their own Bulgarian business. Let's find out what professions are in demand in Bulgaria in 2024.
Labor market in Bulgaria
The Bulgarian labor market suffers from a shortage of experienced workers, mostly in technical specialties. Many graduates from prestigious universities in Bulgaria leave their home country in search of a "better life", so local employers are trying to fill this gap. In total, the labor force is about 3.3 million people with a population of 6.7 million. Unemployment in Bulgaria averages 5–6%.
For legal employment in Bulgaria, foreign specialists must first find a job and sign an employment contract with the employer, as well as obtain a work permit and open a work visa. Then a Bulgarian residence permit is issued within 3 months. To do it is rather difficult, as the citizens of Bulgaria, and also applicants from EU and EFTA (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) have the priority right to work.
The income of Bulgarian workers is one of the lowest in the European Union. According to official data from the local government, the minimum wage in 2024 is 933 Lev per month, which is equivalent to 475 euros. For example, in Luxembourg, this figure is 5 times higher (2.570,93 euros). According to the Bulgarian National Statistical Institute, the average salary in Bulgaria is 2,123 Lev per month (1,085 euros). After tax deductions, about 1,647 Lev (840 euros) remains.
The most demanded professions in Bulgaria
The most popular areas where foreigners can find work on the Bulgarian labor market are information technology, agriculture and tourism. Local experts estimate that in the next 10-15 years the most popular professions in Bulgaria will be nurses, midwives and teachers.
The demand for workers without special qualifications – waiters, bartenders and cooks – will noticeably decrease. Most applicants with higher education will be looking for jobs in Sofia, Plovdiv and Varna. By the way, according to surveys of local residents, the best city to live in Bulgaria is Burgas.
Important. The most highly paid professions in Bulgaria are related to information technology and communications, as well as financial and insurance activities. Average salaries here exceed 1000 euros per month.
â„– | Occupation |
1 | Business Analyst |
2 | Brand-manager |
3 | Engineer |
4 | Nurse, midwives |
5 | Merchandiser |
6 | Programmer |
7 | Insurance agent |
8 | Builder |
9 | Teacher |
10 | Financier |
Note. The information is based on data from Bulgarian and international recruitment agencies.
In conclusion, we note that the income tax rate in Bulgaria is 10%, which is the lowest in the European Union. In the world ranking Doing Business for the ease and accessibility of starting and running a business, the country ranks 61st.