With its status as a member of the European Union and good financial and budgetary health, Bulgaria is a stable and reliable market for French companies. Moreover, the prospect of the likely adoption of the euro is accelerating the movement of convergence towards European Union standards. Relying on a booming manufacturing industry, particularly the automotive industry, Bulgaria is recording robust growth year on year, which means it is able to withstand crises.

Source : Country profile Business France

Good to know :

Language Spoken : Bulgarian
Local Currency : Bulgarian lev
Capital : Sofia

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.E in Bulgaria

In the meantime, you meet the International Young Talent Program criteria.

Doubts about your eligibility ? Feel free to contact us !

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.A in Bulgaria

To go to Bulgaria as a V.I.A, you must fulfil the access conditions to the V.I.A.
The administration that is recruiting you is responsible for your residence permit.

The cultural work codes in Bulgaria

Bulgarians are very welcoming, even in a professional setting. This hospitality is evident in their liking for office celebrations of all kinds - birthdays, moving house, buying a new car - but also the curiosity they show towards other cultures. This is particularly true of young Bulgarians who are used to travelling and are generally friendly with their foreign colleagues. Events organised after work, are much appreciated by young Bulgarians and are part of working culture, they are also the perfect way to discover the local nightlife and are a great way to become part of the team.

In terms of communication with your Bulgarian counterparts, you will not encounter any insurmountable language barriers - in fact, the inhabitants of the large cities have a good command of English. However, it will always be appreciated if you can speak a few words of Bulgarian to demonstrate your motivation and show your respect. On the other hand, you may be surprised by the very direct style of communication in Bulgaria. Your colleagues won’t stand on ceremony or go easy with you. This has the advantage of breaking the ice very quickly !

Punctuality is appreciated in working relationships in Bulgarian culture, as well as in private life. The key to building long-lasting and working relationships based on trust ? Create and maintain personal contacts with your counterparts. Whether directly, by e-mail or telephone, make an effort to maintain your relationships and to cultivate them over time.

Things that may surprise you in Bulgaria

- Bulgaria is one of the oldest European countries, with a remarkable history dating back over thirteen centuries and a rich cultural heritage.

- Although a small country, it has no shortage of magnificent landscapes and views - you must discover its mountains, which are suitable for hiking or winter sports, but also its picturesque Black Sea coast teeming with beautiful sun-drenched beaches.

- Did you know that Bulgaria is the birthplace of the Cyrillic alphabet ? It is currently used by 252 million people in 23 countries in Europe and Asia.

- The country has one of the highest home ownership rates in Europe - more than 90% of Bulgarian households now own their homes.

- Bulgaria has always been very open to new technologies. In 2020, it ranked 8th in the world in terms of mobile Internet speed.

- The Bulgarian currency is the lev, which is pegged to the euro at a fixed rate (€1 = 1.95583 BGN) and has remained constant since 1997, thus minimising currency risk.

- Restaurants are completely affordable, and offer a wide variety of national and European dishes. Traditional Bulgarian cuisine is very festive and strongly influenced by Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. A few practical tips - the person who makes the invitation usually pays the bill; water and bread must be ordered explicitly; the local spirit is rakia – a strong alcoholic drink (40-60°) made from fruit (grapes, plums, apricots, pears, etc.) that is taken as an aperitif with salad or a starter. And don't forget to look your companion in the eyes as you toast !

- Beware misunderstandings! Head movements to indicate yes or no are the opposite of ours. To avoid any misunderstandings, remember to speak at the same time : “da” for yes and “neh” for no.

- You have been invited to a Bulgarian friend’s or colleague’s house. Always remove your shoes at the entrance. Also remember to bring a gift for your host or hostess. Be careful, if you offer flowers, don’t forget to count them - in Bulgarian culture an even number signifies mourning !