5 ways to get a job in Bulgaria without speaking Bulgarian

Thinking about moving to Bulgaria but don’t speak Bulgarian? That doesn’t necessarily have to stop you from finding a job.

Bulgaria has become an attractive destination for international companies that provide services to customers across Europe. Many of these employers recruit multilingual candidates to work in customer support, sales, technology, gaming and digital services.

In these international workplaces, your native language and English skills may be more important than Bulgarian. Learning some basic Bulgarian will certainly make everyday life easier, but you may not need it to land your first job.

Here are five practical ways to find a job in Bulgaria without speaking Bulgarian.

1. Search for multilingual jobs

Instead of searching for general vacancies in Bulgaria, focus on jobs created specifically for international candidates.

Many companies based in Sofia and other Bulgarian cities support customers from different European markets. As a result, they regularly look for people who can work in languages such as:

• German
• Dutch
• French
• Italian
• Spanish
• Polish
• Danish
• Swedish
• Norwegian
• Finnish

Some of the most common multilingual positions include:

• Customer service
• Technical support
• Content moderation
• Trust and safety
• Back-office support
• Sales
• Account management
• Gaming support
• Digital marketing
• IT and software development

Many customer-facing and back-office roles are suitable for entry-level candidates. Employers frequently provide paid training, so previous experience is not always essential.

To get more relevant results, search for phrases such as “German-speaking jobs in Sofia”, “Dutch customer service Bulgaria” or “French jobs in Bulgaria with relocation”.

You can also browse the latest jobs in Bulgaria available through City Job Offers.

2. Make your native language the focus of your application

For multilingual employers, your native language can be one of your most valuable professional skills.

Companies serving international markets need employees who can communicate naturally with their customers. Knowing the language is important, but understanding the culture, tone and expectations of those customers can make you an even stronger candidate.

Make sure your CV clearly includes:

• Your native language
• Your level of English
• Any additional languages you speak
• Previous customer service experience
• Communication and problem-solving skills
• International work or study experience
• Your availability to relocate to Bulgaria

It can also help to mention your language combination near the top of your CV. For example:

Native Dutch speaker with B2 English and customer service experience

Don’t worry if you have never worked in the exact position before. For many entry-level jobs, employers are more interested in your language skills, attitude and ability to learn.

Experience in retail, hospitality, tourism or any role involving direct contact with people can also be relevant.

3. Prepare to work in English

You may not need Bulgarian for an international job, but English is usually important.

English is often used for training, company systems and communication between colleagues from different countries. Some employers ask for an intermediate level, while others may require more advanced English depending on the position.

You should ideally be able to:

• Understand instructions and training materials
• Communicate with your team
• Participate in a job interview
• Write professional emails or chat messages
• Explain problems clearly
• Use workplace software in English

You don’t need to sound like a native speaker. What matters is that you can communicate effectively and feel comfortable asking questions when something is unclear.

Before your interview, practise introducing yourself and explaining why you want to work in Bulgaria. You should also be ready to talk about your previous experience, language skills and availability to relocate.

4. Look for jobs with relocation support

Moving abroad is much easier when your new employer helps with the practical arrangements.

Many companies recruiting multilingual candidates in Bulgaria offer some form of relocation support. The exact package depends on the employer and position, but it may include:

• Flight reimbursement
• Temporary accommodation
• Airport pickup
• Help finding long-term housing
• Assistance with local documents
• Private health insurance
• Paid training
• A relocation bonus

Always read the vacancy carefully to understand what is included. For example, “relocation assistance” does not always mean that every expense will be covered.

You can ask the recruiter:

• Is the flight paid upfront or reimbursed later?
• How long is temporary accommodation provided?
• Are utility bills included?
• Will the company help me find permanent housing?
• Is the relocation bonus paid immediately or in instalments?
• Do I need to repay the relocation costs if I leave early?

Getting these details in writing will help you plan your move and avoid unexpected expenses.

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can work in Bulgaria without obtaining a work permit, although local residence registration may be required. Bulgaria’s Ministry of Economy confirms that these citizens can work for Bulgarian employers without permission from the Employment Agency. Non-EU citizens usually need the appropriate work authorisation, visa and residence documentation. Official Bulgarian guidance explains the different requirements.

5. Apply through an international recruitment platform

Bulgarian job boards can be difficult to navigate if you don’t understand the language. They may also contain many positions intended for local candidates and requiring fluent Bulgarian.

Using an international recruitment platform allows you to concentrate on employers that are actively searching for multilingual talent.

At City Job Offers, you can find opportunities in Bulgaria where your native language is part of the job—not an obstacle to getting hired.

Why apply through City Job Offers?

• It’s completely free for candidates.
• You can find jobs in your native language.
• Many opportunities are suitable for entry-level candidates.
• Some positions include relocation support.
• Paid training may be provided.
• You can find office-based, hybrid and remote opportunities.
• A recruiter can support you during the application process.

Focus on positions that match your language, English level and eligibility to work in Bulgaria. A smaller number of targeted applications will usually be more effective than sending the same CV to every available vacancy.

Can you work in Bulgaria without speaking Bulgarian?

Yes. International companies in Bulgaria regularly recruit employees who work primarily in their native language and use English to communicate internally.

Your opportunities will depend on which languages you speak, your level of English, your professional background and your right to work in the country. Candidates who speak an in-demand European language may find opportunities even without extensive previous experience.

Learning basic Bulgarian is still worthwhile. It will help you with shopping, transport, administrative tasks and daily conversations. It can also make settling into your new home much more enjoyable.

However, you don’t need to wait until you speak Bulgarian fluently before beginning your job search.

Ready for your next international adventure? Explore our latest jobs in Bulgaria and discover how far your language skills could take you.

Not sure where you would like to live? Take a look at our guide to the best cities and neighbourhoods in Bulgaria.