Foreign nationals without a permit to reside in Bulgaria will be banned from employment in the country, according to amendments in the Encouraging Employment Act.

The ban is being approved by the cabinet Wednesday and affects only citizens of countries outside the European Union.

The cabinet press center points out this is one of a number of measures aimed at reducing undeclared employment and illegal immigration.

In reality, at least temporarily, the measure would not have a strong effect since fewer foreigners have been working in Bulgaria in the last two years due to the economic crisis.

In 2010, the Employment Agency has issued work permits to less than 1 000 foreign citizens.

According to the Act, employers who will have to part with their illegal immigrant workers will have to pay the latter a compensation in the amount of three times the minimum monthly wage (BGN 240 a month) and take on all expenses related to deporting them.

The amendments would further give the Social Policy and Labor Minister the authority to limit foreigners' access to Bulgaria's labor market, which will be done after consulting with employers and the trade unions.

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