Residence permit / Permanent residence

Turnkey residence permit in Bulgaria — D visa and residence permit processing

Obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria — is an official process that requires a lawful basis, correct preparation of documents and compliance with all legal procedures.

Bulgaria Avenue provides complete support in arranging the D visa and obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria. We accompany clients at every stage — from selecting a basis to receiving the residence card.

If you are planning to obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria, we will select the optimal basis and ensure a safe and transparent application process.

Grounds for obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria

A residence permit in Bulgaria can be obtained by citizens of CIS countries, the EU and other states, provided there is a lawful basis. Below are the main ways to obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria.

Residence permit in Bulgaria for financially independent pensioners

A residence permit in Bulgaria for pensioners is one of the most accessible grounds for obtaining a residence permit.

It is suitable for applicants who hold a pension certificate, regardless of age.

To apply for a residence permit in Bulgaria, it is necessary to confirm the receipt of pension income over the last 6 months, as well as the availability of financial funds and a residential address in Bulgaria.

Residence permit in Bulgaria through investment

A residence permit in Bulgaria can also be obtained on the basis of investment.

By investing from €307,000 in property or other assets stipulated by law, the applicant becomes entitled to apply for a residence permit in Bulgaria.

Trade representative office in Bulgaria

Opening a trade representative office is one of the most popular ways for foreigners to obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria.

This basis is suitable if you own an active company registered outside Bulgaria.

The company must have been registered for at least 2 years and have a turnover of at least €50,000. It may be registered in your name or in the name of a third party.

On the basis of the company, a trade representative office is opened in Bulgaria which does not carry out commercial activity but grants the right to obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria.

It is also possible to obtain a residence permit for family members under the family reunification procedure. Up to 2 representatives may be entered into the representative office.

Residence permit in Bulgaria through study (university)

A residence permit in Bulgaria can be obtained upon enrolment in an accredited Bulgarian state university.

A student D visa to Bulgaria grants the right to obtain a temporary residence permit for the period of study, with the possibility of extension.

D visa to Bulgaria — the first stage of obtaining a residence permit

A category D visa to Bulgaria is a mandatory stage for obtaining a residence permit.

The D visa is issued in approximately 30 days.

Without obtaining a D visa, it is impossible to submit documents for a residence permit in Bulgaria.

We accompany the D visa process: preparation of documents, booking of the submission appointment, consultations and support.

Support in obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria

Bulgaria Avenue provides a full range of services for arranging D visas and residence permits in Bulgaria for foreigners.

We accompany the client at every stage:

from consultation and choice of basis to receipt of the residence permit card.

Cost of a residence permit in Bulgaria: €1,500 — full «turnkey» support package

What the service includes:

Individual consultation and selection of the optimal basis for the residence permit
Preparation and compilation of the full document package
Review and legal correction of documents
Booking and organisation of the submission
Accompaniment during the D visa submission
Full support in arranging the residence permit in Bulgaria
Accompaniment until receipt of the residence card

The price includes:

Government fees
Medical insurance

The price does not include:

Translation and legalisation of documents

Obtain a D visa and residence permit in Bulgaria

If you would like to obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria quickly and without unnecessary complications, leave a request on the website or contact us.

Bulgaria Avenue specialists will select the optimal basis and fully accompany the application process.

Our contacts: +359884470432

Email: mail@bulgaria-avenue.com

Stages of obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria

Determining the basis for obtaining a residence permit

As the first step, Bulgaria Avenue specialists help to determine the legal basis for obtaining a residence permit. This may be studies (obtaining higher education in Bulgaria), investments in the country's economy in the amount of more than €307,000, the purchase of property, arrangement of a residence permit under a pension programme (if you have a pension in another country), marriage to a Bulgarian citizen, ownership of an active company that has existed for at least 2 years and has a turnover of at least €50,000 per year over the last two years, or opening a branch of a foreign company in Bulgaria. Such a branch does not have to carry out active operations, but it can serve as a lawful basis for obtaining a residence permit.

Preparation of the mandatory conditions

Before submitting the documents, a number of mandatory requirements must be fulfilled. First of all, it is necessary to have housing in Bulgaria — this may be a rental with a minimum term of 1 year or purchased property. It is also required to arrange medical insurance in Bulgaria, the indicative cost of which is around €100 per year. The next step is opening a bank account with a Bulgarian bank. The account must hold funds: for pensioners — an amount equal to 12 minimum pensions, and for other applicants — 12 minimum salaries. The bank issues an official certificate confirming the funds in the account, which is included in the document package.

Preparation and legalisation of documents

At this stage, the applicant prepares the necessary documents in their country of residence. The main document is the certificate of no criminal record, which must be legalised or apostilled depending on the country of issue. If the residence permit is being arranged under a pension programme, a pension certificate is additionally required, together with its translation and legalisation into Bulgarian. All documents must be translated and prepared in accordance with the requirements of Bulgarian legislation.

Submission of documents for a category D visa

Once the full document package has been prepared, an application is submitted for a long-term category D visa, which is a mandatory stage before obtaining a residence permit. The application is lodged through the Bulgarian consulate or embassy in the applicant's country of residence. The review of the application usually takes around 1 month, although in some cases it may take longer.

Entry into Bulgaria and submission of documents for a residence permit

After receiving the category D visa, the applicant can enter the territory of Bulgaria. From the moment of receiving the visa, the applicant has up to 6 months to enter the country and submit documents for arranging a residence permit at the migration service of Bulgaria.

Review of the residence permit application

Once the documents have been submitted, the review of the application begins. The review usually takes around 2 weeks. After approval, the procedure for issuing the residence permit card begins.

Receipt of the residence permit card

Following a positive decision, the residence permit card is issued. The card production time depends on the chosen urgency and may be 3 days, 1 week, 3 weeks or up to 1 month. The cost of producing the card depends on the chosen processing time.

Advantages of obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria

Residence in a European country

Obtaining a residence permit provides the opportunity to officially reside in Bulgaria and enjoy all the benefits of life in a European country. Bulgaria is a member of the European Union, which ensures a stable legal system, developed infrastructure and comfortable living conditions.

Free movement across Europe

Holding a residence permit in Bulgaria allows convenient travel and movement across European countries, including the Schengen zone. Thanks to Bulgaria's advantageous geographical location and well-developed transport connections, it is easy to visit other European countries.

Opportunity to work and run a business

Residence permit holders can work in Bulgaria, open companies and engage in business activities. This provides the opportunity to develop your own business or build a career in the European economic environment.

Access to the banking system and financial services

A residence permit allows the use of banking services in Bulgaria, including opening accounts, carrying out financial transactions and obtaining loans. This significantly simplifies financial activity and the management of funds.

Prospects of obtaining permanent residence and citizenship

After residing in Bulgaria for a certain period of time with a residence permit, it becomes possible to arrange permanent residence and then apply for Bulgarian citizenship.

Opportunity for the whole family to relocate

One of the important advantages is the possibility of family reunification. If one family member has obtained a residence permit, the other family members can also arrange a residence permit.

Residence permits for spouses and children

Under the family reunification procedure, spouses and children may obtain residence permit status. For children under 18, a residence permit may be arranged together with the parents, allowing the entire family to reside legally in Bulgaria.

Gallery

Real moments and milestones from our clients who have already settled in and are beginning a new life in Europe — their successes speak for themselves.

Reviews

Words of gratitude that inspire us!

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I contacted Bulgaria Avenue for help and was completely satisfied with the results. Their staff demonstrated a high level of professionalism, and all services were provided promptly and efficiently.

I am extremely satisfied with the services of the company! The deal went quickly and without any problems. Full support from Evgenia Prokazova. Professionalism and accuracy! I highly recommend, especially after my collision (and disappointment) with other companies in Bulgaria

We chose Bulgaria Avenue and have never regretted it! Eugenia and Dimitar are fantastic! They are highly qualified experts in real estate, they have an extensive database of offers, their professional approach in working with clients, decency, honesty, sincerity and kindness deserve the highest praise! They value client time and are patient and respectful of all requests, wishes and questions. I had 2 days at my disposal and we managed to do everything: choose a flat, sign a preliminary contract, open a bank account! Their advice in choosing locations, builders, quality of renovation is highly professional. They are very professional and knowledgeable in their choice of locations, builders and quality of renovation.

Highly recommend to use Bulgaria Avenue services if you want to buy your first property in Bulgaria or even if you think you know Bulgarian market well enough to buy property by yourself. Evgeniya (Director of the Bulgaria Avenue) is very experienced agent. Property which was selected by Evgeniya for us, based on our requirements, exceeded our expectations. Without hesitation we recommend Bulgarian Avenue services for their professional advice; for post sale support; for making buying experience simple and very pleasant; for helping us to convert dream property into welcoming home.

Frequently asked questions

What does the “turnkey residence permit / permanent residence” service include?

This service provides full support of the client by the agency's specialists up to the moment of obtaining a residence permit or permanent residence in Bulgaria. We handle the collection of documents, choose the date of the visit to the migration service, our interpreter is present during the interview so that the client does not worry, and we track the status of the application review. A residence permit can be obtained on the following grounds: opening a business/company, purchase of property, official employment, family reunification, obtaining education or a pension. We have made this process easy and as simple as possible for the client, so that they do not waste time and can focus on preparing for their future relocation.

What are the processing timelines and what do they depend on?

Processing a residence permit in Bulgaria takes from 3 to 6 months from the moment your documents are submitted. Several factors influence the timeframe, including: the basis for obtaining the residence permit, the correctness of the completed forms and the availability of all documents, the season, and how busy the migration service is at the time of submission. A residence permit can be obtained more quickly with investments in business or the purchase of property worth at least €300,000. To obtain a full list of the required documents, we recommend submitting a request on the website for a consultation with our specialists. Bulgaria Avenue agency monitors the process and, where possible, accelerates it so that the client does not have to wait long.

Is it possible to obtain a residence permit without buying property, and what basic conditions are required for this?

Yes, obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria is possible not only through the purchase of property. The status can be obtained in other ways: official employment; opening one's own firm/business (EOOD or OOD with a share capital from 2 leva); marriage to a Bulgarian citizen or family reunification if the relative holds permanent residence; obtaining education at one of Bulgaria's higher education institutions; retirement (in which case it is necessary to confirm the availability of means for living and present a pension certificate). Among the conditions for a prospective resident: to have a lawful income, a clean background (no criminal record) and to arrange medical insurance. If you would like to relocate from Ukraine to Bulgaria, call or message us on messengers to receive a free consultation and choose the appropriate service.

Which documents most often cause difficulties when applying for a residence permit / permanent residence, and how do you help to avoid a refusal?

As practice shows, difficulties arise with documents that need to be apostilled (confirmation of the legality and authenticity of the documents). These include marriage/divorce certificates, birth certificates of children and higher education diplomas, as well as a certificate of no criminal record (not older than six months). In addition to the apostille, these documents also require a notarised A prospective resident needs to obtain medical insurance in Bulgaria and prepare a certificate confirming the legality of income (if it exceeds 6,000 leva per year), and this also costs time and money. Bulgaria Avenue agency works in such a way that all documents and certificates are prepared at once and correctly the first time, so as to reduce the likelihood of refusal and not waste time. More information about the support services can be obtained during a consultation online or in person at the office in Bulgaria.

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Residence permit and permanent residence in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a popular destination in the EU for relocation and living. Economic stability, a low crime rate, developed resort infrastructure and a favourable attitude towards investors make it one of the leading countries for immigration.

Obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria with the subsequent arrangement of permanent residence is an opportunity to build a life in a European country.

What is a residence permit?

A residence permit is an official status that allows a foreigner to lawfully live in the country for 6 months to 1 year, with the right of extension.

What does residence permit status in Bulgaria give a foreigner?

Residents can:

cross the country’s border without restrictions and without a visa;
enjoy state social guarantees (receive education and medical care);
invite relatives to join them;
open an account with European banks;
after 5 years of residence in the country, apply for permanent residence with the subsequent option of obtaining Bulgarian citizenship.

Is it possible to work while holding a residence permit in Bulgaria? For official employment, you need to hold a work permit or register a business.

What is permanent residence and how do you obtain it?

Permanent residence is an indefinite status under which a foreigner lives in the country for an unlimited time and enjoys essentially the same rights as locals (the exception being participation in political elections).

How can you obtain permanent residence?

the total absence from the country over 5 years on residence permit status must not exceed 10 months;
the intention to live in the country permanently.

The process is accelerated by large investments in the country’s economy or by Bulgarian origin, which must be documented. In other cases, the deadlines are strictly regulated by law.

Grounds for obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria

How can you arrange a residence permit and permanent residence in Bulgaria? There are conditions for obtaining a residence permit which the foreigner chooses based on their financial situation and the purpose of their stay in the country.

Residence permit in Bulgaria through a representative office of a foreign company

This basis is often chosen thanks to its accessibility. A residence permit through opening a representative office of a foreign firm allows the documents of several employees to be arranged at once. The advantage of this method is that there is no need to conduct business in Bulgaria — it is sufficient to be registered with the country’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Residence permit for financially independent persons and entrepreneurs

Persons with confirmed means of support, and entrepreneurs ready to create jobs (usually at least 10 positions for Bulgarian citizens), may apply for a residence permit on the basis of financial solvency or business activity.

Obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria through the purchase of property

One of the popular options chosen by well-off foreigners. According to Bulgarian legislation, when purchasing property in any city of the country for an amount of at least €307,000, a non-resident is fully entitled to obtain a residence permit.

If the price of the property is below the specified amount, it may then serve as a condition (own housing) for arranging the status on another basis.

Residence permit in Bulgaria for pensioners

Foreigners of retirement age may fall under the «Financially Independent Pensioner» programme and obtain a residence permit. The conditions for this are: hold confirmed pensioner status in your home country, receive a pension and have sufficient funds for living in Bulgaria. It is also necessary to confirm the availability of housing (rented or owned).

Our agency will help you open an account with a local bank, go through all stages of registration and adapt to life in a new country.

What documents are required for the application, the cost and status renewal

To arrange a residence permit in Bulgaria, a standard package of documents is required:

application form and 2 photographs;
a valid international passport;
a document confirming housing (certificate of ownership or rental agreement);
a bank statement confirming funds for living;
a certificate of no criminal record;
medical insurance;
receipts for payment of the state fee.

Renewal of the status is carried out annually: to do this, an updated document package and a valid resident card must be submitted.

The indicative price of «turnkey» support starts from €800 – €1,200. Additional costs include: the state fee for the residence permit (from €100 to €400, depending on the term), medical insurance (up to €150 per year), notary services, translation and legalisation of documents.

Residence permit in Bulgaria for Ukrainians

A residence permit is particularly relevant for Ukrainians and Israelis who have found themselves in a difficult situation in their home country.

How can Ukrainians obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria? Citizens of Ukraine can obtain temporary protection here or begin the procedure for arranging a residence permit on one of the grounds indicated above.

Step by step, it looks as follows:

At the embassy in your place of residence, you need to arrange a D visa, providing the documents listed above.
On arrival in Bulgaria, you need to apply to the migration service and submit the application, D visa and receipts for payment of the state fee.

If everything is done correctly, the applicant is issued a residence permit card. The process may take up to 2 months.

Why it is worth arranging a residence permit and permanent residence in Bulgaria through the Bulgaria Avenue agency

When arranging a residence permit on your own, you may encounter errors in completing forms, incorrectly prepared documents or inaccurate translation of certificates. This often becomes a reason for refusal.

The Bulgaria Avenue agency offers assistance in obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria. Our specialists provide a full cycle of support: starting from the initial consultation, choice of basis for long-term residence and collection of documents, through to receiving the resident card.

Trust the Bulgaria Avenue team to make relocation to Bulgaria an easy and organised process, and adaptation to a new country quick and full of positive emotions!