The event was held within the framework of the “Functionally Sustainable Migration and Integration in Bulgaria” (FSMI) project, which aims to promote legal labor migration, provide accessible information on employment opportunities in Bulgaria, and support the attraction of human capital to enhance the country’s economic development and competitiveness.

The roundtable was opened by Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Policy Danail Rusev, who presented the measures undertaken by the government to facilitate access to the Bulgarian labor market for third-country nationals. Particular emphasis was placed on the digitalization of administrative procedures and the introduction of an electronic platform that enables employers to submit applications for work and residence permits online.

During the event, BCCI President Tsvetan Simeonov highlighted the importance of close cooperation between institutions and the business community in addressing labor shortages and creating an efficient and predictable framework for labor migration.

On behalf of CEED Bulgaria, Executive Director Stanislav Chervenkov presented the progress achieved under the FSMI project, including the activities implemented to date, stakeholder engagement efforts, and the analytical and practical tools developed to support employers and job seekers from third countries.

Among the key project outcomes presented was the BG Jobs Portal, a digital platform designed to connect Bulgarian employers with qualified candidates from third countries and facilitate a transparent and legal labor mobility process.

Experts from BCCI also presented a report on Bulgaria’s labor environment concerning third-country nationals, as well as a practical guide for employers that provides comprehensive information on recruitment procedures, institutional requirements, and best practices for the integration of international employees.

The forum further explored the legal framework governing access to the labor market, as well as the challenges and opportunities related to the integration of migrant workers in Bulgaria. The event concluded with an engaging discussion among representatives of public institutions, employer organizations, and businesses, who exchanged experiences and recommendations for improving recruitment procedures and creating favorable conditions for attracting and retaining qualified talent.

Through the FSMI project, CEED Bulgaria continues to work toward establishing sustainable labor migration mechanisms and effective integration practices that support both the needs of employers and the long-term development of the Bulgarian economy.