Today we have the pleasure to learn from the experience in Bulgaria of our new friend
Per-Åke Nådén who change the tranquility of Sweden for a new life in Bulgaria. have been already 4 years in Bulgaria, and now he will tell us how he feels about it.
Name and nationality:
My name is Per-Åke Nådén And I am Swedish, 63 years old
Tell us a bit about you and what you do
I have worked as a travel consultant for almost my whole life, and I have been to over 60 Countries.
I am still working as a travel consultant, but right now in a call center for an Online travel agency.
Why and when did you come to Bulgaria?
The first time a was in Bulgaria was for16-17 years ago. I fell in love with the country, nature, the food, and the people. And for 4 years ago I got a chance to move here permanently. I have never regret that decision.
What do you like about your country of origen?
Sweden is, of course, more organized and has a better social security system. And the nature up in the north is amazing. It is really a nice country to visit. But unfortunately has the attitude in the country get worse for swedish citizens. Today there are so many refugees in the country that many swedish values disappear.
What are some differences between your country and Bulgaria?
The biggest difference is, of course, the salary and the cost of living and the social security system.
But Sweden has also among the highest taxes for work in Europe. And most people in Sweden living in a high standard that they have loaned money for. They are forced by the bank to work hard so they can pay back the money they used to have a good standard. In Bulgaria, it still not so common to loan money to buy new things. People are actually freer. And the biggest difference is that Bulgaria preserve the traditions and the music and folklore dance
What do you like about Bulgaria?
I like the opportunities that Bulgaria gives you. And the culture, history nature, food, and the people,
What was the most dificult bureocratic procedure you have undergone so far in Bulgaria?
IThere is a lot of bureaucratic moments in Bulgaria. But the migration office is a little special. First, when I got here I Got a temporary working permit for one year. When I had to renew the permit they gave me another EGN and they don’t automatically merge the old number with the new one.
So I had to go to NOI to do that. And they came with a letter and asked why the company I worked for did not pay taxes. (but they had paid on my old number) And the other is that all documentation from Sweden they needed to have a government stamp on. In Sweden, everything is by the computer so normally there is not an official stamp.
Mention one important experience you’ve had in Bulgaria :
I have made an operation in my leg and thanks to good contacts, I found good doctors and hospital. But even you are in the national health system I recommend people to have private insurance as well.
What languages do you speak other than your mother tongue?
Except for Swedish, I speak English, a little Bulgarian and Norwegian
What countries have you been to?
To many countries, over 60 countries
How is your business going ?
I am employed at the moment but looking for for an opportunity to open my own business.
What advice would you give to other people who would like to come to live in Bulgaria?
If you plan to move to Bulgaria ask questions to people that are living in Bulgaria for advice. And if you plan to rent or buy an apartment or house check with a local lawyer and don’t buy until you are settled. I try to inform people in LinkedIn with articles about living in Bulgaria. I also manage “Svenskar i Bulgarien” on Facebook and LinkedIn. So you are welcome to contact me for any questions
Thank you Per-Åke for taking the time to talk to us, we hope soon you will find the right opportunity to start your own business here in Bulgaria.
