Ultimate Guide to Freelancing in Bulgaria in 2024

Ultimate Guide to Freelancing in Bulgaria in 2024

What is a Freelancer in Bulgaria?

A freelancer is an independent worker in Bulgaria who earns a living working for different businesses or organisations on a flexible per-job or per-task basis, typically for short-term work.

The largest benefit to being a freelancer in Bulgaria is that the cost of living and overhead costs are significantly lower than in many other countries. Freelancers can easily save money and manage their budget without sacrificing quality of life. Additionally, Bulgaria has a low tax rate on both individuals and businesses, providing freelancers with more disposable income. Bulgaria is a great place to have a work-life balance. Many people work from home or even while they travel, such as taking advantage of Bulgarias many beautiful beaches or mountain walking trails. The countrys public spaces make it easy to meet with clients and get the job done. Bulgaria also provides a high quality of life. People here experience a sense of community, a rich culture and history, and access to some of the best healthcare systems in the world. For freelancers looking to experience a better work-life balance, Bulgaria provides a great launch pad. The low costs of living and working in Bulgaria, combined with the great work-life balance and amazing lifestyle, make it an ideal location for freelancers and entrepreneurs. As long as you put the effort in, theres no reason why you cant achieve your business goals and enjoy a great quality of life in Bulgaria.

Freelancing in Bulgaria in 2024
  • Gigs

gigs
Bulgaria Bulgaria

Place your gigs Ad here and reach millions of our customers in Bulgaria and beyond. Sign Up and advertise on gigexchange today.

HBS Consultancy
BG Bulgaria Star HBS C

HBS Consultancy is the top international recruitment agency in India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka providing complete staffing solutions across the world.

What are the benefits of Self-Employment in Bulgaria?

Freelance jobs are typically work paid by the hour, day or month. Whereas per task work, or per project outcome is usually paid on satisfactory completion of the work task, or tasks. These tasks are commonly referred to as freelance gigs.

1. Flexible Working Hours: As a freelancer, you have the freedom to determine your own working hours and therefore manage your own schedule. This enables you to be productive and prioritize tasks according to their importance. You can choose the hours and days when you are most productive and effective, thus alleviating stress associated with long commutes and long working hours. 2. Cost Savings: Self-employment can save you on expenses such as rent, transportation, and other business costs. Furthermore, because you are not bound by office hours, you can use the time and money that you would normally spend on transportation or commuting to other tasks or leisure activities. 3. Tax Breaks for Self-employed individuals: The Bulgarian government also provides tax incentives for self-employed individuals, making it a more attractive country for freelancers to work in. These include deductions from annual income tax, health insurance, and social security payments. 4. Growth Opportunities: Operating and running a business is a great way to further understand the process of growing a business to its greatest potential. You will gain insight into strategic planning and operations, as well as gain skills in creating and managing a business. 5. Diversified Sources of Income: By branching out into different areas, you can expand your income potential and avoid market downturns. You also have an easier time transitioning to new markets when your current market is no longer profitable. 6. Freedom and Autonomy: One of the main advantages of being self-employed is the freedom and autonomy that come with it. You are in control of your own success and destiny, and don’t need to answer to a boss or be tied to a job you don’t particularly like. 7. Enhance Your Own Credibility: Self-employment is a great way to demonstrate your skills and abilities to the world. You can increase your credibility among potential clients and others in the marketplace, helping you get a better rate for your services.

Freelancing in Bulgaria in 2024
  • Jobs

jobs
Bulgaria Bulgaria

Place your jobs Ad here and reach millions of our customers in Bulgaria and beyond. Sign Up and advertise on gigexchange today.

Credit Conslutant
job.country Ovcha Kupel Sofia

Are you ambitious and looking for a dynamic career? Join our vibrant and expanding financial team as a Credit Consultant. Be part of our success story!

Quality Control Inspector
job.country Petrich

Are you a product inspection professional with fundamental understanding of quality control? Do you have practical experience using AQL standards? Then we would love to hear from you to join QIMA as a freelance Quality Control Inspector!

Electrician
job.country Belgium Antwerp

We are CJ Support Services - a leading international company providing leasing of specialists for construction sites to large European companies. For a project in BELGIUM we are seeking individuals for the following role: Electrician:

Шофьор на камион
job.country Sofia

Добре дошли в RecBG - водещата рекрутингова агенция! Имаме вълнуваща възможност за работа като Шофьор на Камион в София, България.

Изпълняващ артист
job.country Sofia

Добре дошли в RecBG - водещата рекрутингова агенция! Имаме вълнуваща възможност за работа като Изпълнителен Артист в София, България.

Find & Hire Freelancers in Bulgaria?

The rise of freelance work has accelerated the gig economy movement, especially the online marketplaces associated with the gig economy and Future of Work.

Freelance jobs and gigs are very popular in Bulgaria, as they allow workers to work remotely and have greater flexibility, while still earning a good wage. Here are some of the most in-demand and highly paid freelance jobs and gigs in Bulgaria, including the rates they typically charge: 1. Web Development: Web developers are in high demand in Bulgaria, and they typically charge between $30 and $60 per hour. They can develop and maintain websites for a variety of clients. 2. Graphic Design: Graphic designers are also in high demand in Bulgaria, and they can charge between $30 and $50 per hour. They work with clients to create logos, illustrations, and other visual materials. 3. Copywriting: Copywriters in Bulgaria typically charge between $20 and $50 per hour for their services. They write interesting and compelling content for blogs, websites, and social media platforms. 4. SEO Optimization: SEO Optimization is a major component of online marketing, and professionals in Bulgaria typically charge between $20 and $60 per hour. They help ensure that a website’s content is optimized for search engines so that it appears higher in search results. 5. Video Editing: Video editors in Bulgaria typically charge between $20 and $60 per hour. They can take raw footage and turn it into a professional-looking video. 6. English-Bulgarian Translation: Many companies looking to do business in Bulgaria need English-Bulgarian translators, and they typically pay between $15 and $40 per hour. They have to have a thorough understanding of both languages, as well as cultural nuances that may affect the translation. 7. Virtual Assistants: Virtual Assistants in Bulgaria may be asked to help with tasks such as moderating social media accounts, creating email campaigns, or doing research for clients. The rate for virtual assistants usually ranges from $10 to $30 per hour. 8. Voice Acting: Voice actors in Bulgaria typically charge between $25 and $50 per hour. They often record audio clips that are used in video games, cartoons, and advertisements. 9. Social Media Management: Social media managers are in high demand in Bulgaria, and they can typically charge between $15 and $60 per hour. They help businesses engage with their target audiences and manage online campaigns. 10. Data Entry: Data entry professionals in Bulgaria usually charge between $10-20 per hour for their services. They assist companies with entering data into databases and spreadsheets.

Freelancing in Bulgaria in 2024
  • Promote

promote
Bulgaria Bulgaria

Place your promote Ad here and reach millions of our customers in Bulgaria and beyond. Sign Up and advertise on gigexchange today.

Polyana Pet Hotel
ad.country Shestnadesta Street Polyana Village

Licensed Hotel for cats and dogs

What are popular Freelancing roles in Bulgaria?

Marketing

  • Publicist
  • Digital Marketer
  • Social Media Marketer
  • Product Manager
  • Marketing Strategist
  • SEO Expert
  • Advertising Executive
  • Communications Expert
  • Media Executive
  • Journalist

Information Technology

  • Ecommerce Expert
  • Web Designer
  • Web Developer
  • Software Engineer
  • IT Consultant
  • Cyber Security Consultant
  • Cloud Architect
  • Big Data Analyst
  • Data Scientist
  • Project Manager

Creative

  • Content Creator
  • Copywriter
  • Writer
  • Creative Director
  • Art Director
  • Animator
  • Video Producer
  • Graphic Designer
  • UI/UX Designer
  • Photographer

Wondering what the process is to start freelancing in Bulgaria?

Identify and embrace your niche

Identify your current skillset and where your passion lies. Most freelancers are experienced professionals with numerous years of experience working professionally in a permanent position but looking to become self-employed and a master of their own destiny.

Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

Focus on your freelance skills strengths and weaknesses

Research the capabilities expected of a freelancer within your area of expertise and identify your strengths and weaknesses. This will help you with your personal development plan and billable pay rate.

Identify your freelance skills strengths and weaknesses in Bulgaria in 2024

Ensure you have all the appropriate equipment

Common checklist for freelancers include: Home Office: Comfortable office desk & chair. Printer/scanner. Mobile devices. Fast & reliable internet. Cloud products for storage. Software products to help you complete your work

Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

Create A Portfolio

Build a portfolio of your work you can showcase to prospective clients. This can be publicly viewable on the internet, or accessible on permission, depending on the nature of your work.

Create A Portfolio in Bulgaria in 2024

Getting Started - Finding the best Jobs & local or remote Clients in Bulgarian

Getting started begins with finding new clients. How can this be achieved? Where can freelancers find new customers? Start by going to dedicated meetups. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up to date. Network, network, network! Update your promote profile on gigexchange.com. Use online freelancing platforms and apply for freelancing jobs and freelance gigs.

Freelancing Finding Jobs & the best Clients in Bulgaria in 2024

Try Freelancing Part-Time or as a Side Hustle

If you are just starting out and testing the water for freelancing. Then working part-time of as a side hustle is perfect for understanding whether you enjoy freelancing. What kind of rate to charge and how successful you are. Freelancing on the side can be completed on evenings and weekends, outside of your primary job and it will also help bring in some extra income too.

Try Freelancing Part-Time or as a Side Hustle in Bulgaria in 2024

Find The Right Freelance Platform in Bulgaria

With so many freelancer websites and freelancing apps to choose from, we have listed the top 5 Freelance Platforms in Bulgaria below:

Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

Top 5 Freelance Platforms in Bulgaria


Upwork

Upwork

  • Type: Marketing, Software, Design
  • Pros: Secure pay, Large market share
  • Cons: Lengthy selection process, High service fees (client & worker)

Upwork is the largest freelancing website that connects clients and freelancers all across the world.

The web app provides a large range of skills and categories, from web and software development to marketing and accounting.

Clients and freelancers have multiple ways to connect – clients can choose to advertise a job and hire talent or buy a predefined service from the project catalog.

Whereas freelancers can access the job board and offer a service to sell.

To get started as a freelancer on Upwork, first create a profile.

Upwork has a sliding commission scale, rewarding the more you work, the less money you pay. The commission fee starts from 20% for the first bill of $500 and gradually reduces as you receive more money.

Payment withdrawal, includes direct transfer, PayPal, and wire transfer.


Freelancer

Freelancer

  • Type: Language, Tech, Marketing
  • Pros: Progress tracker, Live chat, Good customer support
  • Cons: Bad UI/UX, Spam freelancers, Fake clients

Freelancer.com is one of the original freelance websites where service provider professionals and international organisations unite to complete various projects. Registering as a freelancer requires you to fill out a short form. Provide detailed information, including your skills, educational background, and work experience.

Freelancers can apply for projects to gain work. In addition to projects, there are also contests, such as visual or design work. Freelancers can gain from these contests by earning money along with reviews on their profiles.

Every freelancer will receive full payment after completing a job. However, the platform takes 10% of your total earnings for contests and fixed projects. Payment is via PayPal or wire transfer for withdrawal.


Fiverr

Fiverr

  • Type: Marketing, Web development, Social media
  • Pros: Popular site with large number of customers, Free registration
  • Cons: High commission charge, Long payment process

Fiverr is a freelance platform connecting freelancers and business owners requiring expert on demand talent for services in various digital projects, including website design, copywriting, and sales lead generation.

This website provides a slick process for freelancers and business owners to collaborate. Sellers can sign up for free, list their gigs, and set their own prices. Whereas, buyers can easily browse through different work categories to purchase. Whenever a buyer purchases a gig, the app immediately charges their account and places the money on hold. The platform pay proicess will then take a commission fee and send freelancers 80% of the offered price.

Depending on each freelancer’s seller level, it can take up to 14 days to withdraw their earnings. There are multiple options to withdraw the payments, such as debit card, PayPal, and wire transfer.


Guru

Guru

  • Type: Marketing, Tech, Admin
  • Pros: Secure payment, Customized job listings, Free membership
  • Cons: Potential fake clients

Guru is an international freelancer marketplace. Companies can hire professionals with various skills, such as software engineers, web designers, and digital marketing freelancers. This freelance platform is easy to browse freelance job listings and submit applications to clients. Start by signing up and building your freelance profile. The app will provide job recommendations based on your defined skills and experience.

Freelancers can bid for different projects and provide a fixed price for each. Freelancers can receive pay in various manners, including PayPal and wire transfer. More importantly, the site ensures freelancers get paid timely with SafePay protection.Every freelancer that signs up on this freelance website gets a free basic membership. This can be upgraded to paid membership plans with more features to benefit the freelancer.


gigexchange

gigexchange

  • Type: Creative, Media, Technology, Marketing, Software, Security
  • Pros: Secure pay, Push notifications, Live private chat, Free membership, Low commission, Identity verified freelancers only
  • Cons: Still in growth phase

Gigexchange is a Global Future of Work marketplace for freelancers to connect with businesses for work. Gigexchange allows freelancers to complete freelance gigs (specific work tasks and outcomes - with payment after the work is completed), freelance jobs (time based work - typically short term contracts which are arranged off platform). Freelancers may also volunteer their valuable services free of charge via the Volunteer service.

Registration is quick and simple, completing a skills and experience fields for its AI/ML function. Registering for Freelance Gigs via the Gig Worker section requires Identity verification prior. This is quick and simple, providing a few ID documents to become identity validated, building trust in the marketplace.

The commission rates for freelance gigs is the lowest of all freelance apps, at just 5%. For freelance jobs there is no commission for finding work.

There are no subscription fees or limits on the number of applications for jobs or gigs.

Gigexchange operates across 39 countries, allowing freelancers to connect with local businesses and remote, or work from home freelance work.

The platform works as a progressive web app (PWA) which means both buyers and sellers can use the standard website or mobile app to complete work services.

The platform supports VISA & Mastercard debit & credit cards. Payment withdrawal for freelancers is via Stripe and typically takes 5-14 days from gig completion.

Building your personal Brand & Online Platform Reputation

As you gain more customers, your reputation will grow. This will allow you to acquire new customers by both word of mouth referrals and via freelance platform ratings and testimonials.

Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

Charge the Right Price & Rates $$$$$$

As your reputation and experience/expertise develops, so will your pricings. Periodically review your rates to ensure they are both fair and at market rate internationally and in Bulgaria

Managing multiple freelance jobs and clients

A key skill being a freelancer is managing and juggling multiple clients and projects simultaneously, along with maintaining a pipeline of new work when your schedule permits. This requires great personal organization skills and planning.

Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

Deliver Beyond Expectations

The first rule of conducting great work is understanding the requirements and outcomes expected of you. The second rule is completing over and beyond this. This will result in repeat work and referrals, allowing you to grow your freelance business effectively.

Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

Stay on top of the admin

Self-employment involves much more administrative work than being a permanent employee. There are various tasks requiring constant attention throughout the months and years. The major administrative work includes:

Managing Freelancing Admin in Bulgaria in 2024

Managing Freelancing Financials

We all love making money, but we also need to stay on top of our revenue, accounting and taxes. Some great online products to help with this include:

Managing Freelancing Financials in Bulgaria in 2024

Never Forget to Pay your Taxes

Keeping the taxman happy is critical to running a successful business. Stash away 30-40%+ of each paycheck for taxes. Pay quarterly taxes. Save every receipt and research applicable expenses. Hire an accountant or bookkeeper if this is not your strength.

Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

Personal Development

Staying an expert in your specialisation is key to your success as a freelancer in Bulgaria. Allocating time and resources to continuously improve and upskill is essential.

Freelancers use various tools and online training platform to do so, such as:

Online training courses

Writing

Design

Marketing

Business Administration

Freelancing Information

Software & Data Tools

Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

Join freelance communities

Join as many Social Media groups for freelancers in Bulgaria to help you build your network.

Join local Slack groups of interest to you. Sign up to meetup.com and search for freelance meetups in Bulgaria and become an active member.

Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

How to Be a Successful Freelancer

Start with understanding why you want to freelance? Then use our guide to ensure you give yourself the best chance of creating a successful freelance career.

One of the most important questions to ask yourself is. Can you afford to freelance? Starting out is the hardest part, there will be periods of no, or little income coming in. Do you have a financial contingency plan? If so, how long for. If the period of time is short, perhaps begin with freelancing as a side hustle on gigexchange.com

Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

Ask yourself: Is Freelancing for Me?

If you dont try it, you will perhaps never know. But plan and prepare as much as possible prior to jumping in, to ensure you understand the risks and rewards of freelancing in Bulgaria.

One of the most important questions to ask yourself is. Can you afford to freelance? Starting out is the hardest part, there will be periods of no, or little income coming in. Do you have a financial contingency plan? If so, how long for. If the period of time is short, perhaps begin with freelancing as a side hustle on gigexchange.com

Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

What are the Pros and Cons of Freelancing?

Advantages of freelancing

  • You’re your own boss
  • You set your own rate and select which freelance gigs and jobs you work
  • You have a better work-life balance by working when and where you want
  • You could pay less in taxes if managed well

Disadvantages of Freelancing

  • You’re not your own boss
  • You have to manage your own benefits, taxes, and accounting
  • If you don’t work, you don’t make money. No sick leave in freelancing
  • No job security
Freelancing a Job in Bulgaria in 2024

Find the Best Freelance Jobs in Bulgarian in 2024

Search for the Best Freelance Jobs Portals in in Bulgaria to begin and grow your freelance career.

Best Bulgaria Job Website Name
Bulgaria Job Board Pricing
26-1176 BGN
Free - 72.00 BGN
FREE Job Advertising in Bulgaria
25 BGN - 250 BGN
Email sales for prices

Which Cities & Regions can I find Freelance Jobs & Freelance Gigs in Bulgaria?

Need to find a freelance job near me in in Bulgaria? Check out local freelance jobs near you.

Towns & Cities in Bulgaria

Additional Freelance Information in Bulgaria

We have collated some additional useful Freelancing information available online in 2024 so you can gain extra knowledge, resources and potential new Freelancing job opportunities, or understand how Freelance Job Seeking can work for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are popular freelance jobs in 2022 arrow-right
  • Writing
  • Content Creation
  • Software development
  • Graphic design
  • Copywriter
  • Software engineer/web developer
  • Digital marketing consultant
  • Social media manager
  • SEO specialist
  • Media buyer
  • Photographer/videographer
  • Web designer
  • JavaScript, CSS, and HTML. Web development is still one of the most in-demand jobs in the freelancing markets
  • Web App Development
  • WordPress Design & Development
  • Project Management
  • Cloud Computing
  • Data Science & Analysis
  • Administrative Assistance
  • Consulting
  • Photography & Videography
  • Social Media Manager & Community Manager
  • Virtual Assistant
How is remote work and work from home/work from anywhere benefiting freelancers? arrow-right

Freelancers are independent contractors who either work on a retainer or on a project-by-project basis. Freelancers set their own work hours, decide where they want to perform their tasks, and usually only provide a service or product for a predetermined fee — with no company benefits or services included. Remote working, or working from home (or working from anywhere) has simply increased the work opportunities for both businesses hire remote talent and freelancers having an increased pool of clients. Freelancers can conduct all work remotely, without the need for being near the business headquarters, or having to go into the office.

Where can I find freelance work as a side hustle? arrow-right
  • Upwork
  • gigexchange
  • Taskrabbit
  • Wonolo
  • Upshift
  • Jobble
  • Fiverr
Is freelancing worth it? arrow-right
Absolutely Yes! If you are a highly skilled individual who has a passion for the work you complete. Are great at what you do. Enjoy diverse and busy work environments. Love juggling multiple tasks and projects at once. Enjoy meeting new people and being paid for your value. Enjoys working remote and loves being your own boss. Then yes, freelancing is worth it!
What is the difference between a freelancer and a digital nomad? arrow-right
Both a freelancer and contractor are self-employed experts. The main difference is that digital nomads are freelancers who love to work and travel with no set ‘home’. Digital nomads are individuals who are location transient but use modern technologies to work remotely whilst living a nomadic lifestyle.
How is the gig economy impacting freelancers? arrow-right
Businesses benefit from the gig economy by gaining access to highly skilled on-demand talent to complete defined project work, or set tasks. Gig workers, also known as contingent or contract workers or freelancers, benefit from the flexibility and access to new opportunities that might not have been available before. Platforms such as gigexchange.com are providing local and remote freelance gigs and freelance jobs to freelancers globally.
What are the benefits of hiring freelancers arrow-right
  • Flexibility and Specialised Expertise. On-demand talent is now available to businesses for specific work tasks (freelance gigs) or specialised freelance jobs (short contracts) that cant be fulfilled by inhouse employees in a flexible manner
  • Reduced Risk. Hiring freelancers on a short term basis reduces the risks on bad hires through the recruitment process
  • Savings. Pay for talent when only you need it.
  • High Quality of Work. Freelancers are experts in their trade. Hire with confidence when using online platforms by hiring trusted and reputable experts only.
  • Worldwide Reach. Remote working means gain access to talent working from anywhere in the world
What is the difference between a freelancer and a contractor? arrow-right
Both a freelancer and contractor are self-employed workers. Freelancers are more typically associated with creative and media industries. Contractors are terms used to describe independent employees in I.T. or civil construction.
What is the difference between a freelancer and an employee? arrow-right

Freelancers are self-employed individuals who are employed by businesses on short-term projects, or dedicated tasks to complete. They receive no employee benefits from their clients and pay and manage their own taxes. Freelancers are their own boss, setting their own hours and work lifestyle. They typically juggle multiple clients simultaneously.

Freelancers determine their own rates, which may be hourly or on a per-project basis. They typically work remotely, though may occasionally meet with clients in person or visit the office for meetings.

Employees permanently work for a single employer and are paid fixed remuneration in the form of an annual salary.

The employer provides work benefits (such as holiday time, sick leave, healthcare, and pension plans) and is also responsible for managing their taxes and contributions. Employees typically have a contract that defines their expected work hours, role, and the terms of their employment. Since they are a permanent part of the company, employees are usually required to serve a notice period before leaving the company. They also enjoy more job security than freelancers or contractors. Businesses can give notice to freelancers much quicker and easier than permanent employees.

Are self-employed freelancers the Future of Work? arrow-right

Freelancing and self-employment has been trending up for many years. As of 2022, the freelancing industry is growing three times faster than the traditional workforce. And statistics predict by 2027, the majority of the US workforce will be freelancing.

As many as 64 percent of freelancers find their work online on platforms such as gigexchange.com, and most now no longer require a freelancer to be physically on site. For remote based freelancers and digital nomads, this means their location is no longer an inhibitor to work. The digital economy is fueling the freelancing industry growth.

How to on-board remote freelancers? arrow-right
  • Have an on-boarding process & checklist pre-defined
  • Ensure all appropriate access to software tools and products and user accounts are setup prior to day 1
  • Welcome employees personally immediately on day 1 via an approved business digital communications channel such as teams or slack
  • Use communications technology to build a culture of immediacy, collaboration and camaraderie
  • Set clear expectations before day one: pre-boarding
  • Allocate a remote buddy or mentor
  • Regularly follow up and pulse check with remote freelancer to ensure they are happy, engaged, understand their roles & responsibilities and not blocked from working
Whats the difference between a freelance job and freelance gig? arrow-right

A freelance job is a standard work contract for a set period of time. Typically 3-6 months. These jobs are paid by the hourly or daily rate. Freelancers usually invoice on a weekly or monthly basis for standard freelance jobs.

Freelance gigs are work assignments with explicit scope of works and expected outcomes. Freelance gigs are typically paid out once the work has been completed to the customers satisfaction.

Is the Future of Work freelancing? arrow-right
The world of work is slowly drifting away from long term (or permanent) work engagements. Moving to a more on-demand model, where businesses onboard specialised experts for specific tasks or projects. Freelancers are well placed to take advantage of the movement and experienced in the risks and benefits of freelance work and self employment.

See here for more Help & Support questions