Sofia - Post Report Question and Answers
What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
I'm not aware of anyone who works on the local economy. However, I know there are a number of EFMs who telework. There are several EFMs who work at the embassy both in full time and part time positions. Though I will say, during our year long stay I haven't seen that many job opportunities become available, I think maybe 4 or 5? If your EFM is interested in working, they should probably start looking at positions well in advance. - Jun 2023
There were a few jobs for spouses and EFMs, but we never took advantage of them. It also would have been nearly impossible to get a job on the local economy without Bulgarian language. - Mar 2019
Labor is underpaid here, so the hourly rate you could earn on the economy would be pretty low. - May 2016
No, not really as language is a barrier. - Dec 2014
NO. - Nov 2014
Yes. Plenty but the pay is too low. - Aug 2014
Not really, wages are very low. An average salary is about 300 euros per month. A very good salary - managerial positions - pay about 700-800 euros per month. - Jun 2011
Doing your own private business I have heard is a bit difficult to break into. Not really sure about local jobs available. Sometimes there are a few opportunities at the schools, but they are all I.B. so they usually want I.B. trained staff. American College of Sofia is a private school so they are a bit more lenient. - Oct 2009
A growing number if you speak Bulgarian. The economy is booming and with the current demographics the country will need to begin attracting high quality employees. - Feb 2008
