The Ministry of Labor and Social Policy is developing an innovative National Information Portal that will provide comprehensive guidelines for people who want to settle permanently in Bulgaria. The project is being implemented under the Human Resources Development Program (HRDP) and aims to maximize the simplification of administrative procedures.
The portal will consolidate key information regarding various aspects of relocation and integration – from issuing work permits through recognition of work experience to access to educational institutions. The Executive Agency for Bulgarians Abroad will be the lead partner in developing the strategy to encourage return.
The Managing Authority of HRDP announced the first component of the "I Choose Bulgaria" measure with a budget of 26.5 million BGN, which will be administered by the Employment Agency. The main goal is to stimulate the return of Bulgarians living outside the country, compatriots with foreign citizenship, and citizens from third countries.
Financial support includes several key areas. One-time assistance for household relocation is provided, differentiated by geographical origin – up to 5,000 BGN for EU countries and up to 10,000 BGN for countries outside the union. A monthly accommodation allowance of 406 BGN will be granted for a period of up to one year, subject to certain conditions.
Candidates must meet specific criteria – at least 12 months of stay abroad in the last 18 months or recently completed education outside Bulgaria. A mandatory requirement is maintaining the workplace in the country for at least half a year.
The program provides additional incentives for retaining specialists. After the first six months of employment, participants can receive a one-time 30% of the average salary for the respective sector. With one year of work experience, the incentive increases to 50%.
Deputy Minister Natalia Efremova emphasized the comprehensive approach of the initiative, which covers not only labor migration but also the social adaptation of families. Language courses for foreigners and support for the integration of spouses with foreign citizenship are provided.
The second component of the project is focused on internal migration – encouraging work in small settlements with a population of under 50 thousand people. The goal is to stimulate the development of peripheral regions by attracting young specialists.
The National Information Portal is emerging as a key instrument for implementing state policy on retaining and returning Bulgarian citizens, creating a transparent and supportive environment for professional and social realization.