Bulgaria residence permit

Bulgaria, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, attracts more and more foreign entrepreneurs and investors every year due to its competitive tax rates, low costs of doing business and convenient geographical location. A residence permit in Bulgaria grants foreigners the right to legally reside and do business in the country, as well as the opportunity to enjoy the benefits offered by a member state of the European Union.

1. What is a residence permit in Bulgaria?

A residence permit in Bulgaria is an official authorisation allowing foreign nationals to reside and carry out activities in the country for a certain period of time. It gives access to the local labour market, social system and educational institutions, as well as visa-free travel to Schengen countries (after Bulgaria’s accession to Schengen). The residence permit can be temporary or permanent, depending on the purpose of stay.

2 The main types of residence permits in Bulgaria

  • Temporary Residence Permit: This is issued for a period of one to five years and is suitable for those coming to Bulgaria for work, study, business or family reasons.
  • Permanent Residence Permit: grants the right to reside in Bulgaria indefinitely and access to all social benefits. It is available to those who have lived in the country on a temporary residence permit for more than five years or to investors who have made significant investments in the country’s economy.
  • Residence permit for entrepreneurs and investors: intended for persons who start a business or invest in the Bulgarian economy, including the purchase of real estate, participation in the capital of companies or job creation.
  • Residence permit for employees: granted to foreign nationals who have received a job offer from a Bulgarian employer. It is necessary to have a work permit and fulfil the requirements of the vacancy.
  • Residence permit for students: issued to foreign students enrolled in Bulgarian educational institutions and allows them to partially work in the country.

3. basic requirements for obtaining a residence permit

The requirements for obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria depend on the type of permit, but general criteria include:

  • Proof of purpose of stay: employment contract, business plan, study invitation or documents proving family ties.
  • Financial sustainability: the applicant must prove that he/she has sufficient funds to live in Bulgaria without applying for social assistance. This can be confirmed by bank statements, proof of income or savings.
  • Health insurance: it is compulsory to have a health insurance covering all risks in Bulgaria.
  • Criminal record certificate: from the country of residence and all countries where the applicant has lived for more than one year in the last five years.
  • Proof of housing: rental agreement or documents of ownership of housing in Bulgaria.

4. Application process

The process of applying for a residence permit in Bulgaria involves several key steps:

  • Collection and preparation of documents: all documents must be translated into Bulgarian and notarised.
  • Submission of the application: the application is submitted to the Bulgarian consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country of residence. If the applicant is already in Bulgaria, the documents can be submitted to the Migration Office.
  • Application processing: the process can take from a few weeks to a few months depending on the type of residence permit and the completeness of the documents submitted.

5. Advantages of obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria

Obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria offers significant advantages:

  • The right to legally live and work in one of the most dynamic countries in Europe.
  • Access to the social system, health care and education on an equal footing with Bulgarian citizens.
  • Free movement within the Schengen area (after Bulgaria’s accession to Schengen).
  • Prospect for permanent residence and citizenship: after several years of residence and fulfilment of all conditions, it is possible to apply for permanent residence and citizenship in Bulgaria.

A residence permit in Bulgaria is a strategically important step for foreign investors and professionals seeking to utilise all the advantages of this country. Compliance with all requirements and correct preparation of documents will ensure successful obtaining of the permit and allow you to realise your business and personal plans in Bulgaria, one of the most attractive countries in Eastern Europe.

What is a Bulgaria residence permit?

Bulgaria, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, attracts foreign citizens with its favourable tax policy, strategic location and comfortable conditions for doing business. A residence permit in Bulgaria opens access to living, working and doing business in the country, as well as provides opportunities for free movement around Europe.

1. What is a residence permit in Bulgaria?

A residence permit in Bulgaria is an official permit that grants foreign citizens the right to legally reside in the country for a definite or indefinite period of time. It allows to do business, work, study and use all social services in Bulgaria. The residence permit is an important step for those who want to integrate into Bulgarian society and enjoy the benefits of living in a country that is a member of the European Union.

2 The main types of residence permits in Bulgaria

There are several types of residence permits in Bulgaria, each of which has its own peculiarities and is intended for different categories of applicants:

  • Temporary Residence Permit (Temporary Residence Permit): granted for a period of one year or more with the possibility of renewal. Suitable for work, study, business, family reunification and other purposes.
  • Permanent Residence Permit: is issued for an unlimited period of time and provides a more stable status in the country. It is usually obtained after five years of residence on a temporary residence permit or through investment in the Bulgarian economy.
  • Residence permit for entrepreneurs and investors: intended for foreign citizens who start a business or invest in the Bulgarian economy. Requires submission of a business plan and proof of financial solvency.
  • Residence permit for employees: intended for foreign professionals who have received a job offer from a Bulgarian employer. The applicant must have a work permit and fulfil the requirements of the vacancy.
  • Student residence permit: for foreign students enrolled in accredited educational institutions in Bulgaria, allowing them to study and partially work.

3 Basic requirements for obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria

Requirements for obtaining a residence permit can vary depending on the type of permit, but basic criteria include:

  • Proof of purpose of stay: documents proving the reason for the stay, such as employment contract, business plan, invitation from an educational institution or evidence of family ties must be provided.
  • Financial sustainability: the applicant must prove that he/she has the means to live in Bulgaria without having to apply for social assistance. This can be bank statements, proof of income or savings.
  • Medical insurance: having a medical policy covering all risks on the territory of Bulgaria is a prerequisite for obtaining a residence permit.
  • Criminal record certificate: a document proving the absence of criminal records from the country of residence and other countries where the applicant has lived in the last five years.
  • Proof of accommodation: rental agreement or documents proving ownership of property in Bulgaria.

4. Advantages of a residence permit in Bulgaria

Obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria opens up a number of significant advantages for foreign citizens:

  • The right to legally reside and work in a country with a favourable tax regime and low costs of doing business.
  • Access to the social system and health services on an equal footing with Bulgarian citizens, including the possibility of receiving quality education and medical care.
  • Free movement within the Schengen area (after Bulgaria’s accession to the Schengen Agreement).
  • The prospect of permanent residence and citizenship after several years of residence in the country and fulfilment of all conditions.

5. Application process for a residence permit

The process of applying for a residence permit in Bulgaria involves several key steps:

  • Collection and preparation of documents: all documents must be translated into Bulgarian and notarised.
  • Submission of the application: the application is submitted to the Bulgarian consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country of residence or to the local migration office in Bulgaria.
  • Application processing: the process can take from a few weeks to several months depending on the type of residence permit and the completeness of the documents submitted.

A residence permit in Bulgaria offers a wide range of opportunities for foreign investors and professionals wishing to do business, work and reside in one of the most attractive countries in Eastern Europe. Compliance with all requirements and proper preparation for the application process will ensure successful obtainment of the permit and help maximise the benefits of living in Bulgaria.

How to get a Bulgaria residence permit?

Bulgaria, with its favourable tax regime, low costs of doing business and membership in the European Union, is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for foreign investors and professionals. Obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria gives foreign citizens the right to legally reside, work and do business in the country.

1 Determining the appropriate type of residence permit

The first step in the process of obtaining a residence permit is to choose the right type of permit that suits your purpose of stay in Bulgaria:

  • Temporary Residence Permit: for work, business, study, family reunification or investment. It is issued for up to one year and can be renewed.
  • Permanent Residence Permit: available for those who have lived in the country on a temporary residence permit for more than five years or for investors who have made significant investments in the Bulgarian economy.
  • Residence permit for entrepreneurs and investors: for persons starting a business or investing in Bulgaria. Requires submission of a business plan and proof of financial solvency.
  • Residence permit for employees: for those who have received a job offer from a Bulgarian employer.
  • Student residence permit: for foreign students enrolled in Bulgarian educational institutions.

2. Collection of necessary documents

After determining the type of residence permit, it is necessary to collect all the required documents. The basic list includes:

  • A completed application for a residence permit.
  • A valid passport and copies of all its pages.
  • Document confirming the purpose of stay: employment contract, business plan, invitation from an educational institution or documents confirming family ties.
  • Evidence of financial stability: bank statements, income certificates or other documents proving that you have sufficient funds to live on.
  • Health insurance: a policy covering all medical expenses in Bulgaria.
  • Criminal record certificate: from the country of residence and all countries where the applicant has lived for more than one year in the last five years.
  • Proof of housing: rental agreement or documents of ownership of housing in Bulgaria.

3. Submitting an application

The application for a residence permit is submitted to the Bulgarian consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country of residence. If you are already legally staying in Bulgaria, the application can be submitted to the local migration office.

  • Appointment to apply: in most cases, an appointment to apply is required in advance. It is advisable to make an appointment in advance as queues can be busy.
  • Submission of documents: all documents must be translated into Bulgarian and notarised.

4. Consideration of the application

The application process can take from several weeks to several months depending on the type of permit and the workload of the migration services. During this time, migration services may request additional documents or schedule an interview.

  • Checking the status of the application: applicants can check the status of their application through the online portals of migration services or by contacting the consulate where the application was submitted.

5. Obtaining a residence permit

Once your application is approved, you will receive a residence permit, which is usually issued for one year with the possibility of renewal. Once you have received your permit, you must register your place of residence with the local municipality within seven days of entering the country.

6. Renewal of residence permit

The residence permit must be renewed before it expires. Renewal requires the submission of up-to-date documents confirming that the conditions under which the original permit was issued remain valid.

7. Transition to a permanent residence permit

After five years of residence in Bulgaria on a temporary residence permit, you have the right to apply for permanent residence, which provides a more stable status and access to all social benefits of the country. Obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria is a complex but achievable process, provided that you prepare properly and fulfil all the requirements carefully. By following the steps outlined above and considering the nuances of each type of residence permit, you will be able to successfully obtain a residence permit in one of the most dynamic countries in Europe, which will open up new opportunities for business, work and life.

Types of Bulgaria residence permit

Bulgaria, being a member of the European Union and strategically located in Eastern Europe, offers attractive conditions for foreign nationals wishing to reside, work and do business in the country. A residence permit in Bulgaria opens access to the labour market, social services and many other advantages.

1. Temporary Residence Permit (Temporary Residence Permit)

Temporary residence permit is the most common type of permit and is suitable for foreign nationals who come to Bulgaria for work, business, study or family reasons. The permit is issued for a period of up to one year with the possibility of renewal.

  • Purposes for obtaining: work, study, business, family reunification, long-term medical treatment, investment.
  • Requirements: proof of purpose of stay, availability of financial means for accommodation, health insurance, certificate of no criminal record, proof of accommodation.
  • Advantages: legal residence and work in the country, access to the local social and medical system, possibility to renew the permit annually.

2. Permanent Residence Permit (Permanent Residence Permit)

A permanent residence permit entitles foreign citizens to reside indefinitely and enjoy all social and economic privileges available to Bulgarian citizens. A permanent residence permit can be obtained after five years of residence on a temporary residence permit or on the basis of significant investments.

  • Purposes of obtaining: long-term residence, investment, family reunification with Bulgarian citizens or permanent residents.
  • Requirements: residence in Bulgaria for at least five years on a temporary residence permit, significant investment in the country’s economy, no criminal record, medical insurance.
  • Advantages: indefinite residence, free access to the labour market, possibility to apply for citizenship after five years.

3. Residence permits for entrepreneurs and investors

This type of residence permit is intended for foreign nationals who open a business or invest in the Bulgarian economy. The Bulgarian government actively encourages foreign investment by providing favourable conditions for entrepreneurs.

  • Purposes of obtaining: starting a business, participation in the capital of Bulgarian companies, purchase of real estate, creation of jobs.
  • Requirements: business plan, company registration, proof of financial solvency, proof of significance of the business for the Bulgarian economy.
  • Advantages: opportunity to do business legally in Bulgaria and EU countries, low taxes, access to state business support programmes.

4. Residence permits for employees

A residence permit for workers is issued to foreign professionals who have received a job offer from a Bulgarian employer. A prior work permit is required to obtain such a permit.

  • Purposes of obtaining: employment in Bulgaria, contract work with local companies.
  • Requirements: employment contract, work permit, health insurance, proof of qualification.
  • Advantages: legal employment, access to social protection and health care.

5. Residence permit for students

Student residence permit is issued to foreign students enrolled in accredited educational institutions in Bulgaria. This type of permit allows you to study and partially work during your studies.

  • Purposes for obtaining: study at universities, colleges and other educational institutions.
  • Requirements: letter of acceptance from an educational institution, proof of financial solvency, health insurance.
  • Advantages: access to quality education, possibility of part-time employment, prospect of further employment in Bulgaria.

6. Residence permit for family reunification

This type of residence permit is intended for family members of Bulgarian citizens or foreigners already holding a residence permit. It allows spouses, children and other close relatives to join the main applicant.

  • Purposes of obtaining: reunification with family residing in Bulgaria.
  • Requirements: proof of family ties, financial stability of the sponsor, availability of housing.
  • Advantages: living and working in Bulgaria, access to the social system and education.

Bulgaria offers various types of residence permits, each of which has its own peculiarities and provides unique opportunities for foreign nationals. Whether you are an investor, entrepreneur, professional or student, Bulgaria provides favourable conditions for the integration and development of your business and career. Understanding the requirements and proper preparation for the application process will help you choose the best way to legally live and work in this promising European country.

Temporary residence permit in Bulgaria

Bulgaria, being a member of the European Union and a country with attractive conditions for business, is becoming increasingly popular among foreign citizens wishing to obtain a temporary residence permit (TPL). A residence permit in Bulgaria offers a wide range of opportunities to live, work and do business in the territory of the country and the whole EU.

1. Legal grounds for obtaining a temporary residence permit in Bulgaria

The legal basis for obtaining a temporary residence permit in Bulgaria is regulated by the Act on Residence of Foreign Citizens in the Republic of Bulgaria. The main grounds for obtaining a residence permit include:

  1. Business and investments: Foreign citizens who open a business or invest in the Bulgarian economy are entitled to a residence permit. For example, the establishment of a company with a minimum of 10 jobs for Bulgarian citizens is grounds for obtaining a residence permit.
  2. Work and employment: Employees of foreign companies or professionals working in Bulgarian companies may apply for a residence permit, provided they have a work permit.
  3. Study: Foreign students enrolled in accredited educational institutions in Bulgaria can obtain a temporary residence permit for the duration of their studies.
  4. Family reunification: Family members (spouses, minor children) of Bulgarian citizens or foreign nationals legally residing in the country may also apply for a residence permit.
  5. Pensioners and persons with sufficient means: Persons who prove that they have sufficient means to live in Bulgaria can obtain a residence permit without the need to be employed or run a business.

2. Application process for a temporary residence permit

Step 1: Preparing the necessary documents

The following package of documents will be required to apply for a residence permit:

  • Application for residence permit (in the prescribed form).
  • A passport valid for at least 6 months after the intended period of stay.
  • Document confirming the purpose of stay (e.g. employment contract, study document, company registration).
  • Proof of financial solvency (bank statements, income declaration).
  • Health insurance covering the whole period of stay in Bulgaria.
  • Criminal record certificate from the country of origin (for some categories of applicants).
  • Document on registration of place of residence in Bulgaria.

Step 2: Submitting an application to the Migration Directorate

The application is submitted to the local unit of the Directorate of Migration under the Ministry of Interior of Bulgaria. It is important to comply with all the requirements for documents and deadlines.

Step 3: Review the application and make a decision

The application process can take up to 14 working days, but in some cases the timeframe can be extended. After a favourable decision, a temporary residence permit card is issued for a period of one year with the possibility of extension.

3. Rights and obligations of temporary residence permit holders

Obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria grants a foreign citizen the following rights:

  • Residence on the territory of Bulgaria during the period of validity of the residence permit.
  • Free movement within the Schengen area up to 90 days per half-year.
  • The right to do business, work and study in Bulgaria.
  • Access to the local health care system with appropriate insurance.

However, holders of a residence permit are obliged to comply with Bulgarian legislation, to renew the residence permit in time and to notify the migration authorities of any changes (e.g. change of residence or employment).

4. Advantages of a temporary residence permit in Bulgaria

  • Low taxes and favourable business climate: Bulgaria attracts investors and entrepreneurs with low tax rates and affordable conditions for doing business.
  • Easy transition to permanent residence permit and citizenship: After five years of residence on the basis of a residence permit, a foreign citizen can apply for a permanent residence permit and then for Bulgarian citizenship.
  • Strategic location: Bulgaria is an important transit centre between Europe, Asia and the Middle East, which creates additional business opportunities.
  • Access to quality education and health care: The residence permit provides access to high quality educational and health care facilities.

A temporary residence permit in Bulgaria is a convenient and promising tool for foreign nationals seeking to live, work or do business in Europe. Understanding the legal basis, application process and requirements for a residence permit will help avoid mistakes and speed up the process of obtaining the desired status. Bulgaria continues to be an attractive country for foreigners, offering comfortable living and business conditions. If you still have questions or need advice on obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria, contact a professional lawyer or migration counsellor to discuss all the details and receive qualified assistance in the application process.

Permanent residence permit in Bulgaria

Obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria represents an attractive opportunity for foreign investors and entrepreneurs wishing to expand their activities in Europe. Bulgaria, being a member of the European Union, offers a stable economic and political environment as well as favourable tax legislation.

Legal grounds for obtaining a residence permit

Foreign citizens can apply for a residence permit in Bulgaria based on several criteria:

  1. Economic activity: Investments in the country’s economy, including investments in real estate, business projects or purchase of government securities.
  2. Family ties: Presence of close relatives already living in Bulgaria.
  3. Educational programmes: Admission to Bulgarian educational institutions.
  4. Scientific and cultural activities: Participation in scientific research or cultural projects.

The process of obtaining a residence permit

Filing of documents

The application for a residence permit is submitted to the Bulgarian migration authorities in person or through an accredited representative. The required package of documents includes:

  • Application in the prescribed form;
  • A valid passport;
  • Evidence of economic activity or investment;
  • A certificate of no criminal record;
  • Health insurance valid in Bulgaria.

Timeframe for review

The application is processed within one to three months. If approved, the applicant is granted a residence permit for one year with the possibility of further extension.

Advantages of a Bulgarian residence permit

  • Access to EU markets: A residence permit allows you to travel and do business freely within the Schengen area.
  • Low tax burden: Bulgaria offers one of the lowest tax rates in the EU, making it attractive for business.
  • Simplified access to financial and legal services: Having a residence permit simplifies the process of opening bank accounts and registering companies.

Obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria offers great prospects for foreign investors and entrepreneurs wishing to strengthen their presence in the European Union. Properly executed documents and compliance with all legal requirements contribute to the successful obtaining of this status and its subsequent extension.

Requirements to apply for a Bulgaria residence permit

A residence permit in Bulgaria offers significant advantages for foreign entrepreneurs, including access to European Union markets and legal stability. However, the process of obtaining this status requires careful compliance with legal requirements and preparation of necessary documents.

Basic requirements for applicants

1. Documentary proof of identity and status

  • A valid passport or other identity document;
  • Notarised copy of passport;
  • Passport size photographs.

2. Financial solvency

  • Certificate from a bank stating that there are sufficient funds for living in Bulgaria (the amount is determined on the basis of current regulations);
  • Proof of a stable source of income (e.g. contracts, financial statements for the last year).

3. Health and medical insurance

  • A medical certificate confirming the absence of diseases threatening public health;
  • A valid health insurance policy covering the entire period of stay in Bulgaria.

4. legal grounds for stay

  • Evidence of the purpose of the stay (e.g. property purchase documents, co-operation agreements, investment contracts);
  • In case of family reunification, relevant marriage or relationship certificates.

5. No criminal record

  • Certificate of absence of criminal record issued by the competent authorities of the country of permanent residence.

Application process

  1. Preparation of documents: All documents must be translated into Bulgarian and notarised.
  2. Submission of the application: The application must be submitted in person or through a representative to the Bulgarian Migration Service.
  3. Waiting for a decision: The time it takes to process an application can vary, but is usually between one and three months.

Careful preparation and precise compliance with all requirements guarantees the successful obtaining of a residence permit in Bulgaria. This opens up new opportunities for foreign investors to do business in the country, providing access to the single European market and ensuring legal protection of their investments.

How to apply for a Bulgaria residence permit?

Obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria is a key step for foreign investors planning to expand their activities in the territory of the European Union. The process involves preparing and submitting a number of documents, following legal procedures and fulfilling requirements.

Step 1: Determining the category of residence permit

The first step is to determine the type of residence permit that best suits your goals: investment, work, study, family or long-term. Each category has its own requirements and conditions.

Step 2: Gathering the necessary documents

The following application package will be required to apply:

  • Application form;
  • A valid passport with copies of all completed pages;
  • Notarised copies and translations of documents;
  • Proof of sufficient financial resources for living expenses;
  • Health insurance policy valid in Bulgaria;
  • Documents proving the purpose of stay (e.g. contracts, investment plans, marriage certificates, etc.);
  • Certificate of absence of a criminal record.

Step 3: Submitting an application

The application is submitted in person at the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence or at the Migration Service in Bulgaria. It is important to make an appointment in advance via the official website or by phone.

Step 4: Review procedure

Once an application is submitted, the application process begins, which can take from a few weeks to a few months. During this time, additional documents may be requested or an interview may be conducted.

Step 5: Obtaining a residence permit

After the application has been processed, a residence permit card is issued, which must be picked up in person at the Migration Service. The residence permit is usually issued for one year with the possibility of renewal.

The process of obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Errors in documents or failure to follow procedures can lead to delays or rejection. Timely planning and preparation, possibly with the help of legal advisors, will help ensure successful processing of the residence permit, opening up new opportunities for doing business and living in the European Union.

Residence permits for employment in Bulgaria

A residence permit for employment in Bulgaria is an important legal document that allows foreign citizens to legally reside and work in the country. This is especially relevant for professionals who seek to expand their professional activities within the European Union.

Legal grounds

Obtaining a residence permit for employment is possible if you have a valid labour contract with a Bulgarian employer or if you start your own business in Bulgaria.

Requirements for applicants

1. labour contract

  • The applicant must have a concluded labour contract with a Bulgarian employer, which is supported by relevant documents.
  • The employer must prove that the vacancy cannot be filled by the local labour market.

2. Proof of qualification

  • Professional and educational certificates showing the applicant’s qualifications to perform the work.

3. Business registration

  • If the application is based on starting your own business, you must provide company registration documents and proof of financial stability.

Application process

Document preparation

  • Passport or other identity document;
  • Labour contract or business registration documents;
  • Certificate of no criminal record;
  • Health Insurance;
  • Certificates of financial strength or income.

Submitting an application

The application is submitted in person at the nearest Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate or at the Migration Service in Bulgaria. It is important that all documents are translated into Bulgarian and notarised.

Advantages of obtaining a residence permit for employment

  • Legal residence and employment in Bulgaria;
  • Access to the European Union labour market;
  • Possibility of attracting family to Bulgaria;
  • Long-term prospects of obtaining permanent residence and citizenship in Bulgaria.

The process of obtaining a residence permit for employment in Bulgaria requires careful preparation and compliance with all legal procedures. This opens up significant opportunities for foreign professionals and entrepreneurs planning to develop their professional and business activities within the European Union.

Residence visa/long stay visa in Bulgaria

Long-term visa (type D) and residence permit in Bulgaria open opportunities for foreign citizens to develop business, education and family reunification in the territory of the European Union. These documents are an important step towards integration into Bulgarian society and economy, providing a number of legal and economic advantages.

Grounds for obtaining a long-term visa (type D)

A long-term visa is granted to foreign nationals who plan to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days in a six-month period on the following grounds:

  1. Work: Availability of a labour contract with a Bulgarian employer.
  2. Education: Enrolment in a Bulgarian educational institution.
  3. Family reunification: Joining family members already residing in Bulgaria.
  4. Commercial activities: Starting and managing a business in Bulgaria.

Requirements for obtaining a long-term visa

Papers

  • Completed application form;
  • A valid passport;
  • Photos in an appropriate format;
  • Document confirming the purpose of stay (e.g. employment contract, invitation from an educational institution, company registration documents);
  • Proof of financial solvency (bank statements);
  • Medical insurance for the whole period of stay;
  • Certificate of absence of a criminal record.

Submission procedure

The visa application is submitted to the consular section of the Bulgarian embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence.

Obtaining a residence permit

After entering Bulgaria on a long-term visa, applicants can apply for a residence permit, which entitles them to stay for more than one year with the possibility of extension.

Documents for residence permit

  • ID;
  • Evidence of housing in Bulgaria;
  • Evidence of sufficient funds for living expenses;
  • Health insurance for the duration of the residence permit.

Advantages

  • Access to the EU market: The ability to move freely and do business in Schengen countries.
  • Research and educational opportunities: Access to educational programmes and research in Bulgaria and other EU countries.
  • Economic stability: Taking advantage of Bulgaria’s economic stability and investment opportunities.

Obtaining a long-term visa and residence permit in Bulgaria is a strategic step for foreign entrepreneurs wishing to strengthen their presence in Europe. It not only expands commercial and professional opportunities, but also provides a stable basis for long-term residence and integration into European society.

Can you travel with a Bulgaria residence permit?

A residence permit in Bulgaria opens to foreign citizens not only the possibility of long-term stay in the country, but also facilitates travelling within the European Union. However, like any legal document, a residence permit has its own peculiarities, which you should be aware of in order to avoid legal violations and utilise all available advantages.

Travelling within the Schengen area

Holders of a Bulgarian residence permit can travel to Schengen countries without a visa for up to 90 days in each 180-day period. This offers considerable convenience for business, tourism and personal travel.

Travel documents

The following documents are required for travelling within Europe:

  • A valid national passport;
  • A residence permit issued by the Bulgarian authorities.

Travelling outside the Schengen area

Travelling to non-Schengen countries may require additional visas depending on the nationality of the residence permit holder and the laws of the destination country.

Return to Bulgaria

It is important to remember that in order to return to Bulgaria after travelling it is necessary to have a valid residence permit and a national passport. If you lose your documents abroad, you should immediately contact the nearest Bulgarian consulate to resolve the issue of return.

Limitations and cautions

Although the residence permit gives ample opportunities for travelling, some restrictions need to be considered:

  • You should not exceed the authorised time of stay in Schengen countries;
  • It is important to keep track of the validity of your residence permit and passport;
  • In case of prolonged absence from Bulgaria (more than 6 months per year), the authorities may question the appropriateness of extending the residence permit.

Conclusion

Possession of a residence permit in Bulgaria greatly simplifies international travelling for its holders. However, it is important to plan travel in advance, follow immigration rules precisely and regularly update personal documents. These measures will help to avoid legal problems and make your stay in Bulgaria and travelling in Europe as comfortable and safe as possible.

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