As immigration consultants, we provide expert guidance and support for individuals and families seeking to immigrate to Bulgaria. Located in Southeastern Europe, Bulgaria offers a unique blend of rich cultural history, beautiful landscapes, affordable living, and a growing economy. Our team of experienced professionals can assist you with all aspects of the immigration process, from selecting the appropriate visa or permit to helping with the application and settling in Bulgaria.

Why Immigrate to Bulgaria?

Bulgaria is becoming an increasingly popular destination for immigration due to several reasons:

1. Affordable Cost of Living: Bulgaria is known for its low cost of living compared to many other European countries. Housing, food, transportation, and entertainment are quite affordable, making it an attractive destination for retirees, digital nomads, and those looking for a more cost-effective lifestyle.

2. Growing Economy: Bulgaria has experienced steady economic growth over the past decade. It offers various opportunities for foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals in sectors such as information technology, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.

3. Rich Cultural Heritage and Natural Beauty: Bulgaria is famous for its historical sites, cultural festivals, and diverse landscapes, ranging from mountains and ski resorts to sunny beaches along the Black Sea coast.

4. Strategic Location: Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Bulgaria provides easy access to many countries in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. It is an excellent base for travel and business opportunities in the region.

5. Low Taxes: Bulgaria has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the European Union (10%), making it attractive for entrepreneurs and businesses.

6. Friendly Immigration Policies: Bulgaria offers various visa and residence permit options to accommodate different types of immigrants, such as investors, highly skilled professionals, retirees, students, and family members.

Types of Bulgarian Visas and Residence Permits

The specific requirements and types of visas or residence permits for immigration to Bulgaria depend on the purpose of stay, such as work, study, business, family reunification, retirement, or other reasons. Below are the main categories:

1. Short-Stay Visa (Type C Visa:
– Purpose: For stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, private visits, cultural activities, and other short-term purposes.
– Requirements: Valid passport, visa application form, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, proof of financial means, and other documents based on the purpose of stay.

2. Long-Stay Visa (Type D Visa):
– Purpose: For stays longer than 90 days and up to one year in Bulgaria. This visa is required for those seeking residence permits.
– Types: Work, study, business, family reunification, retirement, and other long-term purposes.
– Requirements: Valid passport, visa application form, proof of health insurance, proof of accommodation, proof of financial means, and specific documents related to the purpose of stay (e.g., employment contract, enrollment letter, proof of family relationship).

3. Residence Permits:
– Purpose: Allows non-EU citizens to reside in Bulgaria for an extended period based on various grounds.
– Types:
– Temporary Residence Permit: Initially issued for up to one year and can be renewed annually.
– Permanent Residence Permit: Issued after five years of continuous legal residence in Bulgaria on a temporary residence permit. Provides similar rights to Bulgarian citizens, except voting rights.
– Long-Term EU Residence Permit: Granted to non-EU citizens who have resided legally and continuously in Bulgaria for five years and have not left the country for more than 10 months within that period.

4. Work Permits:
– Purpose: For non-EU citizens who have a job offer from a Bulgarian employer.
– Requirements: Employment contract, proof of qualifications, valid passport, health insurance, and accommodation proof. The employer must apply for the work permit on behalf of the employee.

5. Start-up Visa:
– Purpose: For foreign entrepreneurs who want to establish a start-up company in Bulgaria.
– Requirements: Business plan, proof of sufficient financial means, proof of qualifications, and other documents.

6. Investor Visa:
– Purpose: For non-EU citizens who invest a significant amount in the Bulgarian economy, such as real estate, businesses, or government bonds.
– Requirements: Proof of investment, valid passport, health insurance, accommodation, and financial stability.

7. Student Visa and Residence Permit:
– Purpose: For non-EU/EEA students who wish to study at a Bulgarian educational institution.
– Requirements: Acceptance letter from a Bulgarian university, proof of financial means, valid health insurance, accommodation proof, and language proficiency (Bulgarian or English).

8. Family Reunification Permit:
– Purpose: For family members (spouses, children, dependent relatives) of Bulgarian citizens or permanent residents to join them in Bulgaria.
– Requirements: Valid passport, proof of relationship, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient financial means, health insurance, and clean criminal record.

General Requirements for Immigration to Bulgaria

While specific requirements can vary based on the type of visa or permit, some common requirements include:

– Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
– Visa Application Form: Completed and signed visa application form.
– Proof of Financial Means: Evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Bulgaria (bank statements, proof of income, etc.).
– Health Insurance: Valid health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Bulgaria.
– Criminal Record Certificate: Clean criminal record from your home country or country of residence.
– Accommodation Proof: Evidence of accommodation in Bulgaria, such as a rental agreement, hotel reservation, or invitation letter.
– Language Proficiency: For certain types of residence permits, proof of Bulgarian or English language proficiency may be required.
– Medical Certificates: In some cases, a medical certificate confirming you do not suffer from any contagious diseases may be required.

Application Process for Bulgarian Visas and Permits

1. Initial Consultation: Determine the most suitable visa or permit type based on your purpose and individual circumstances.
2. Document Preparation: Gather and prepare all necessary documents for the visa or residence permit application.
3. Submit Application: Submit the application to the Bulgarian consulate or embassy in your home country or country of residence.
4. Visa Issuance: Once approved, obtain the visa and travel to Bulgaria.
5. Post-Arrival Formalities: Register with the local Migration Directorate within five days of arrival in Bulgaria and complete any additional procedures for residence permits or extended stays.

How We Can Help You

Our team of experienced immigration consultants provides the following services:

– Personalized Consultation: Assess your eligibility and provide guidance on the best visa or permit options.
– Document Preparation: Assist in preparing all required documents and forms.
– Application Support: Help submit applications and follow up with Bulgarian immigration authorities.
– Post-Arrival Assistance: Guide you through registration, residence permits, and settling in Bulgaria.

Bulgaria offers a diverse range of opportunities for those looking to live, work, or invest in the country. Its affordable cost of living, growing economy, and welcoming environment make it an appealing choice for immigrants. Our immigration consultants are here to help you successfully navigate the process of moving to Bulgaria and ensure a smooth transition. Contact us today to start your journey to Bulgaria!