Published: 22.07.2026
The Bulgarian government approved a bill incorporating the requirements of EU Directive 2024/1233 on the single residence and work permit into national law. The bill would allow permit holders to retain residence rights after losing their jobs under specified conditions and would require some applicants to apply from outside Bulgaria.
According to sources, the bill would change the procedure for third-country nationals applying for a single residence and work permit. Workers could retain residence rights after becoming unemployed if they meet the statutory conditions, but they would also have to notify the Migration Directorate within the prescribed period; failure to do so could lead to revocation of the permit. Applicants who are not in Bulgaria on another legal basis would have to submit their applications from outside the country. This is especially relevant to workers and people planning a work-based relocation, although the measure is still an approved bill rather than a rule already in force.