During the meeting, the implementation of activities under the project “Functionally Sustainable Migration and Integration in Bulgaria” (FSMI in Bulgaria) was discussed. Based on current issues related to the project, updates regarding the Bulgarian labor market were also reviewed.

Stanislav Chervenkov, Deputy Executive Director of the “Center for Entrepreneurship and Executive Development – Bulgaria”, presented information about the new electronic service of the Employment Agency. Through the Platform for the Production and Issuance of Work Permits for Foreigners (PPIW), employers now have the opportunity to register seasonal workers for up to 90 days electronically. This significantly facilitates preparations for the tourist season and speeds up the process of hiring workers.

Since the beginning of the year, the Employment Agency has processed over 150 applications for short-term employment of up to 90 days and has registered the employment of more than 1,200 third-country nationals, including applications submitted electronically. More information can be found on the website of the Employment Agency. Link to the platform: https://workinbulgaria.egov.bg/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2FApplication%2FAdd%3FpermitType%3D5

Additionally, the partners of the “FSMI in Bulgaria” project are preparing a study on the attitudes of employers and migrant communities. This research will contribute to a better understanding of labor market dynamics and provide valuable guidance for the future development of integration processes. More information will be available soon.