How does Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) Permit work in Bulgaria, and who qualifies?

The Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) Permit is for staff being transferred within their own company group from a non-EU branch to a related Bulgarian entity — a branch, subsidiary or group company. It covers managers, specialists and graduate trainees on assignment.

A distinctive feature is that your employment relationship stays with the sending company abroad, so you don't need to sign a new Bulgarian contract for the assignment. The permit is issued by the Ministry of Interior and carries a positive opinion from the Employment Agency.

The main conditions are prior employment in the group — at least 12 months for managers and specialists, or 6 months for trainees — assignment to a related Bulgarian entity, working solely for the designated receiving enterprise in the assigned role, and a Type D long-stay visa before entry.

This route suits multinational companies moving experienced staff into a Bulgarian operation. Because the precise conditions and any fees can change, confirm the current requirements with official sources before relying on them. If your employer is planning a transfer, ACME's free initial consultation can help map out the steps.