The Schengen Area is growing, and with it comes new chances for job seekers! Starting January 1, 2025, Romania and Bulgaria will officially become part of the Schengen family. This means easier movement for travelers and exciting opportunities for skilled workers looking to land jobs in Europe.
The expansion of the Schengen Zone unlocks new potential for professionals across various sectors. Whether you’re an engineer, nurse, truck driver, or IT specialist, Romania and Bulgaria are set to offer numerous job openings in 2025.
In this guide, we’ll explore what this expansion means for job seekers, the types of positions available, and how to take advantage of this new chapter in European labor mobility. Let’s dive into the details!
Schengen Zone Expansion: What It Means for You
With Romania and Bulgaria joining the Schengen Zone, border checks between these countries and other Schengen members will disappear. This creates a seamless experience for Schengen visa holders, allowing easier travel across the entire zone.
However, while a Schengen visa grants access for up to 90 days within 180 days, it is primarily for tourism, business, or visiting family. It does not automatically grant permission to work. Skilled workers will still need a work visa or residence permit to take up employment in Romania or Bulgaria.
How This Helps Skilled Workers:
With this expansion, job seekers can:
- Explore job markets in Romania and Bulgaria.
- Attend interviews and meet potential employers.
- Participate in short-term business trips and networking events.
This opens doors to build relationships, assess job prospects, and secure offers before applying for a full work permit.
Skill Shortages in Romania and Bulgaria: Where the Jobs Are
Both countries are facing significant labor shortages, particularly in sectors like construction, healthcare, IT, and manufacturing. Below is a breakdown of in-demand roles and estimated salaries in 2025:
| Sector | Romania (RON/month) | Bulgaria (BGN/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | – Engineers: €2,605 (12,942 RON) | – Welders: €614-666 (1,200-1,300 BGN) |
| – Welders: €1,400 (6,963 RON) | – Truck Drivers: €512-563 (1,000-1,100 BGN) | |
| – Bricklayers: €1,400 (6,963 RON) | – Engineers: €614-666 (1,200-1,300 BGN) | |
| – Woodworkers: €1,400 (6,963 RON) | – Laborers: €460-512 (900-1,000 BGN) | |
| Healthcare | – Doctors: €1,150-3,350 (5,700-16,600 RON) | – Nurses: €614 (1,200 BGN) |
| – Nurses: €1,715 (8,528 RON) | – Doctors: €1,023 (2,000 BGN) | |
| IT | – Programmers: €3,175 (15,792 RON) | – ICT Pros: €1,282 (2,500 BGN) |
| – IT Specialists: €3,175 (15,792 RON) | ||
| Hospitality | – Chefs/Waiters: €985 (4,905 RON) | – Waiters: €230 (450 BGN) |
| – Chefs: €230 (450 BGN) | ||
| Education | – Teachers: €2,050 (10,189 RON) | – Teachers: €314 (615 BGN) |
| Transportation | – Truck Drivers: €1,695 (8,415 RON) | – Truck Drivers: €512-563 (1,000-1,100 BGN) |
| Manufacturing | – Machine Operators: €1,460 (7,256 RON) | – Machine Operators: €218 (425 BGN) |
| Agriculture | – Gardeners: €1,245 (6,199 RON) | – Gardeners: €218 (425 BGN) |
| Security Services | – Guards: €1,135 (5,639 RON) | – Guards: €143-164 (280-320 BGN) |
Note: Salary estimates are based on 2024 data and subject to change.
How to Secure a Job in Romania and Bulgaria in 2025
Step 1: Research
- Look for job openings in sectors with labor shortages.
- Use job portals like BestJobs, Hipo.ro, and EURES.
Step 2: Apply
- Customize your CV to fit job descriptions.
- Highlight relevant experience and skills.
Step 3: Interview
- If invited, use a Schengen visa to attend in-person interviews.
- This increases your chances of landing the role.
Step 4: Job Offer
- Secure a formal job offer.
- Employers often assist with work visa applications.
Step 5: Visa Application
- Submit the necessary documents:
- Proof of job offer
- Qualifications
- Financial stability
Step 6: Relocate and Start Working
- Once approved, relocate and begin your new role!
Top Job Portals and Recruitment Agencies
| Platform | Focus Area |
| Hipo.ro | IT, Engineering, Healthcare (Romania) |
| BestJobs | Multi-sector (Romania & Bulgaria) |
| Bulwork | IT and technical roles (Bulgaria) |
| EURES | EU-wide job listings |
| Jooble | Aggregates jobs across multiple portals |
By leveraging the Schengen expansion, job seekers can unlock a wide range of opportunities in 2025. Take advantage of this borderless Europe to advance your career and explore new horizons!
