How to Buy Property in Bulgaria as an Israeli Citizen

Today’s economic environment, with extremely low or negative interest rates on deposits, is pushing enterprising people to withdraw money from bank accounts and focus on investments.

The property market is one of the most popular investment opportunities. Many people with capital turn to investing in the form of purchasing real estate.

The conditions for buying property in Bulgaria for an Israeli citizen are the same as for local residents:

• you need to choose a property, check the documents, pay a deposit, sign a preliminary contract, complete payment, register the property, obtain a Bulstat certificate, and transfer the electricity and water accounts.
• before buying, define the purpose and budget. When purchasing property, it is important that price, location and quality are in „harmony“ — such a property will always remain liquid and, if necessary, can easily be resold.

Relations between the two countries and the advantages of buying property in Bulgaria for an Israeli citizen

Relations and cooperation between Israel and Bulgaria have gone through various periods, depending on different influences and changes. Nevertheless, the relationship has been sustained, and for the last five years it has been in an intensive process of cooperation. We see ties developing in all spheres, especially in the economy, security, politics, culture and tourism.

The number of tourists and property owners is growing every year by tens of percent, not only on the Black Sea coast but across the whole country. Israelis are beginning to discover the possibilities of domestic tourism in Bulgaria. Israeli tourists stay in spa hotels, explore cycling and mountain routes, and go horse riding. Many love history and visit the museums of Sofia, Vratsa and Silistra. The country is the ”cherry on the cake” of the Balkans in terms of its beauty.

According to the current Agreement between Bulgaria and Israel, tourist trips to both countries are made on a visa-free basis.

The permitted stay for Israeli citizens is 90 days within a 6-month period from the date of travel.

Air connections with Israel are very well established; you can fly in at any time of year and have a great time. The cost of a return ticket booked in advance can be around 40-60 euros per person.

Many people who have visited from Israel once return here again and start thinking about buying an apartment/house in Bulgaria. The country is suitable for both holidays and relocation.

In the past (and still today), Israeli citizenship has been obtained through a direct line of descent (first degree) by people originating from Russia, Ukraine and other countries. Property prices in Israel are high, and not everyone can afford to buy their own home, so they start considering property abroad — often in Bulgaria.

Comparing housing prices in Europe and Israel, it is clear that in Bulgaria you can buy an apartment or house by the sea or at a ski resort favourably and cheaply. Prices vary widely. You can buy a very cheap apartment from as little as 5,000 euros.

Bulgaria is an attractive country with a low cost of living, which is why many Israeli citizens buy apartments and houses with the aim of relocating and living here in retirement. Bulgarian food products are of a high ecological standard.
The people are very friendly and hospitable.

An Israeli citizen can choose from Bulgaria’s property market and buy housing of any type and location: a house with a plot of land, a house in a village, villas, apartments, flats or studios.

Grounds for relocating to Bulgaria from Israel and obtaining a residence permit / permanent residence:

• Opening a trade representative office or being registered in an existing trade representative office.
• Holding a pension certificate. A pensioner from Israel can very easily obtain a Bulgarian residence permit on the basis of “a pensioner with sufficient means”.
• Investing in real estate for a sum of 600,000 leva (306,775 euros).
• Marrying a Bulgarian citizen.
• Enrolling at a university.

Bulgaria Avenue will be delighted to welcome you to our hospitable country, carry out a price analysis with you, introduce you to the best regions, and offer options on both the primary and secondary markets. We are waiting for you in Sunny Bulgaria. See you soon!