The Seasonal Worker Permit (SWP) is a special type of residence and work permit issued to citizens of third countries who wish to work in Bulgaria for a specified period – from 90 days up to 9 months.The Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act (FRBA) regulates the procedure for issuing the permit and follows the guidelines of Directive 2014/36/EU on the entry and stay of third-country nationals for seasonal work.
According to the Labour migration and labour mobility act (LMLMA), a seasonal worker is a citizen of a third country who temporarily resides in Bulgaria to perform work related to seasonal conditions. This may include work in agriculture, forestry, or fisheries, as well as in tourism and hotels.
“Seasonal work” refers to work that depends on the seasons and is related to specific periods of the year when the demand for labor is much higher than during ordinary months.
The Ministry of Interior (MOI) issues the seasonal worker permit according to Article 24k, Paragraph 1 of the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act. The Executive director of the Employment agency (EA) must provide a positive written opinion regarding the worker’s access to the Bulgarian labor market. This written opinion certifies that the worker has the right to perform seasonal work in Bulgaria. The Ministry of Interior can issue the permit for a period of 90 days to 9 months within 12 months. This applies to workers employed under an employment relationship with an employer in Bulgaria.
How can we assist you?
You need to follow and complete several administrative steps promptly to apply for a seasonal worker permit. The team at Expertissimo offers consultations to employers who want to hire seasonal workers from third countries, regarding legal requirements, and assistance with document preparation.
Contact us to make hiring seasonal workers seamless while you focus on growing your business!
If you are working remotely and looking for long-term residence options, you may also find useful our detailed guide on Digital Nomad Visa for Bulgaria.
06/02/2025
