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Veselin Nalbantov: There is shortage of staff in tourist sector, consulates demand kickbacks from potential foreign workers

Veselina Nalbantov
Photo: BTA

"Money for salaries in the tourist sector has increased many times, but there are no staff in Bulgaria."  This statement about the state of the tourism industry in Bulgaria was made by Veselin Nalbantov, Deputy Chairman of the Bulgarian Hotel and Restaurant Association. 

Veselin Nalbantov pointed out that the state does not have a comprehensive policy regarding future employees. "The staff is going abroad," he added, noting the wage gap as a problem. 

According to the deputy chairman of Bulgarian Hotel and Restaurant Association, the way should be opened for the entry of workers from outside. 

"For this summer season, businesses have found destinations where people can come from - Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Indonesia, India," he said. The problem, however, is that people are forced to wait several weeks before they can submit their documents to Bulgarian consulates. 

"The solution is not to collect bribes. In Delhi, people wait and they are charged 250 to 300 dollars," Veselin Nalbantov gave an example. He is adamant that the tourism sector in Bulgaria works despite the state administration.



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