Working in Bulgaria? Health Insurance Now Mandatory for Single Permit Holders

Starting July 2025, anyone in Bulgaria holding a Single Work and Residence Permit will be automatically enrolled in the country’s State Statutory Health Insurance System.

That might sound like bureaucracy-as-usual, but here’s the key shift: employers are now required to deduct, pay, and report health insurance contributions for these workers, just as they already do for Bulgarian nationals and EU Blue Card holders.

Until now, this wasn’t mandatory for Single Permit holders. If you held one of these permits, health coverage was either private, optional, or simply overlooked. That’s changing.

Who Does This Affect?

• Non-EU nationals living and working in Bulgaria under the Single Work and Residence Permit
• Employers who sponsor foreign employees under this permit
• HR and payroll teams managing compliance for international hires

What is the Single Work and Residence Permit?

Let’s break it down. The Single Work and Residence Permit is Bulgaria’s main route for third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) to live and work in the country legally. It’s designed for skilled foreign workers who already have a job offer from a Bulgarian company.

Once approved, it covers both:

• The right to work in Bulgaria for that specific employer and role
• The right to reside in Bulgaria for more than 90 days

The permit typically lasts up to one year, but can be renewed if the employment continues.

Why This Update Matters

• It brings health coverage for foreign workers in line with Bulgarian labour standards.
• It makes the permit more attractive and secure for international hires who want access to public healthcare.
• It adds an administrative step for employers, who must now include permit holders in payroll health insurance deductions.

In short, the change signals that Bulgaria is trying to standardise benefits and reduce the divide between foreign and local workers, at least on paper.

Also Read: Work in Bulgaria: 50,000 Foreign Workers Needed in 2025 – Here’s How to Apply

Other Work Permit Options in Bulgaria

If you’re considering moving to Bulgaria for work, here are the main pathways to know:

1. EU Blue Card

Ideal for highly qualified professionals with a university degree and a strong job offer. The Blue Card offers long-term stay and easier access to family reunification.

• For highly qualified professionals
• Requires a university degree or equivalent
• Must have a job offer with a salary at least 1.5x the average in Bulgaria
• Valid up to 4 years, with family reunification options

2. Single Work and Residence Permit

The most common route for non-EU nationals with a job offer in Bulgaria. Covers both work and residency rights for up to one year.

• For skilled third-country nationals
• Employer-sponsored
• Valid for up to 12 months, renewable
• Now includes mandatory health insurance

3. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit

Designed for employees of multinational companies being transferred to a Bulgarian branch. Applies to managers, specialists, and graduate trainees.

• For workers being transferred from a company outside Bulgaria
• Covers managers, specialists, and trainees
• Requires proof of employment with the sending company for at least 6–12 months

4. Seasonal Work Permit

Valid for up to 90 days, this option allows foreigners to take up short-term, regulated jobs such as in agriculture or hospitality.

• For short-term or seasonal jobs in sectors like tourism or agriculture
• Valid for up to 90 days within 12 months.

5. Freelancer or Self-Employed Residence Permit

Available to non-EU nationals who can prove viable freelance or business activity that benefits the Bulgarian economy. Requires solid documentation.

• Less common, but possible with strong documentation
• Requires proving your business or freelance activity is viable and beneficial to the Bulgarian economy

Final Thoughts

Bulgaria isn’t always the first country that comes to mind for digital nomads or skilled expats, but it’s quietly becoming more structured in how it manages foreign labour. The inclusion of Single Permit holders in the public health system isn’t just red tape; it’s a sign that Bulgaria is maturing as a destination for international workers.

For employers, it’s one more compliance box to tick. For foreign workers, it’s a practical win: better access to public healthcare and clearer rights while living abroad.

If you’re planning to work in Bulgaria, make sure your employer is aware of the July 2025 rule change and that your payroll reflects it. Health coverage isn’t just a formality; in a new country, it’s peace of mind.