The arrival of workers from third countries is becoming an increasingly important part of addressing labour shortages in Sofia. As more international employees join essential public services, creating a supportive working environment and ensuring smooth communication with local colleagues are key to their successful integration.
As part of these efforts, BISI, in partnership with the management of Sofia’s public transport, held a dedicated training and orientation programme for a group of newly arrived workers. They will be joining the transport system, contributing to the continuity of an essential service for residents and visitors.
The training, held on September 11, 2026, focused on practical knowledge that can help newcomers navigate everyday life and their professional environment in Bulgaria. Lawyer Y. Kosarova presented information on key legal matters, healthcare-related issues and financial topics, giving participants an opportunity to better understand their rights, responsibilities and access to important services – registering with a general practitioner, using paid leave, the relevant procedures for family reunification, etc.
Alongside the practical information, the programme placed an emphasis on intercultural understanding. The socio-cultural orientation session introduced the participants to aspects of Bulgarian history, traditions and culture, while also addressing communication and interaction in a new social and professional environment. This type of orientation can help reduce misunderstandings, strengthen relationships between colleagues and support a more inclusive workplace.
The orientation programme continued outside the training room with a guided visit to historical and cultural sites in central Sofia. The tour offered the participants an opportunity to become more familiar with the city in which they will live and work and to discover some of its cultural heritage.
Supporting integration also means making useful information accessible beyond individual training sessions. To this end, BISI has developed a collection of multilingual information and educational materials for both the newly arrived workers and their Bulgarian colleagues. The resources are intended to facilitate communication and provide practical guidance throughout the integration process.
The initiative is implemented within the framework of the CONSOLIDATE project, funded by the European Union’s Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund.
