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For many people who want to live in Europe, invest, or create a second life plan, a Bulgarian residence permit is one of the noteworthy options. Offering legal residence in a European Union member state, its proximity to Turkey, and relatively balanced living costs increase this interest. Rather than fast-track citizenship promises, the process should proceed by applying to the correct category and following official procedures.
What Is a Bulgarian Residence Permit?
A Bulgarian residence permit is a status that grants foreign nationals the right to legally stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days. At the first stage, a type D long-stay visa is usually obtained. This visa is a prerequisite for applying for a residence permit in the country after entering Bulgaria. An important point here is that obtaining a residence permit does not mean obtaining citizenship. In addition, a residence permit does not grant the right to work or settle in other European Union countries.
How to Obtain a Bulgarian Residence Permit?
Each application is evaluated based on an individual file. Processing times and required documents may vary by category. The general process proceeds similarly for most application types. The process details are as follows:
- A type D visa application is submitted to Bulgarian representations in Turkey.
- After obtaining the visa, entry is made into Bulgaria.
- A residence permit application is submitted to the Migration Directorate/Foreigners Office in Bulgaria.
- If the application is approved, a residence card is issued.
Types of Bulgarian Residence Permits
Residence permit applications in Bulgaria are not one-size-fits-all. The reason for application directly affects how the process proceeds. Therefore, clarifying from the beginning which category you fall into is important for correctly managing both document preparation and the evaluation period.
Residence Permit for Education
Students who receive acceptance from universities or educational institutions in Bulgaria apply under this category. The residence permit is valid throughout the education period and can be renewed. The commonly required documents are as follows:
- Letter of acceptance from the school
- Proof of accommodation
- Financial sufficiency
- Health insurance
Bulgarian Retirement Residence Permit
One of the most researched topics today is the Bulgarian retirement residence permit. Individuals who are retired in Turkey can apply under this category. The basic expectations are:
- Official retirement certificate
- Proof of regular income
- Registered address in Bulgaria
- Health insurance
This model is preferred by people who plan a calmer life in Europe without making an investment. However, there is no guarantee that every application will be approved; financial sufficiency is important at this point.
Residence Permit by Establishing a Company
People who establish a company or conduct commercial activities in Bulgaria can also apply for a residence permit. However, the important point here is that the company must demonstrate real economic activity. Simply establishing a company alone may not be considered sufficient. In addition, fulfilling tax obligations and documenting commercial activity are expected.
Family Reunification
Spouses and children can apply for family reunification through a person who has legal status in Bulgaria. This method is generally one of the categories with a high acceptance rate.
Similar to golden visa statuses, the Bulgarian Golden Visa is not a system that directly grants citizenship through real estate investment in the classical sense. Programs that previously provided citizenship through investment in Bulgaria were implemented, but these programs were abolished due to legislative changes. In the current situation, although investment may contribute to certain residence or long-term residence processes, it does not offer direct citizenship or automatic transition to citizenship.
How to Obtain Permanent Residence in Bulgaria?
Within the scope of permanent residence programs through investment, some models may require investing in licensed investment funds for a certain period. Such investments are usually kept in the system for at least several years, and the applicant may be expected to document the source of funds, have a clean criminal record, and complete certain official visits.
In some versions of investment-based permanent residence programs, the obligation to physically reside in the country for a long time may be limited, and permanent residence status may be maintained indefinitely. In addition, in some cases it is also possible to apply for residence for financially dependent parents.
Advantages of a Bulgarian Residence Permit
Evaluating the advantages of a Bulgarian residence permit within a realistic framework is important for positioning expectations correctly. Therefore, considering the advantages together with personal goals and life plans is the healthiest approach. The advantages of a Bulgarian residence permit are as follows:
- Legal residence in a European Union member state
- Geographical proximity to Turkey
- More balanced living costs compared to Western Europe
- Competitive tax system for company owners
- Opportunity to apply for permanent residence and subsequently citizenship in the long term
Which Countries Can Be Visited with a Bulgarian Residence Permit?
Following Bulgaria’s accession to the Schengen area, residence card holders can travel visa-free to Schengen countries for short-term trips (within the 90 days / 180 days rule).
Is It Possible to Transition from Residence to Citizenship in Bulgaria?
It is possible to obtain Bulgarian citizenship after receiving a residence permit, but there are elements such as long-term residence, submission of income and tax records, language and integration requirements. The process varies depending on personal circumstances and the type of residence and can usually take many years.
A Bulgarian residence permit can be a logical option for those who have a life plan in Europe. However, this process should be evaluated not with the expectation of fast citizenship but with long-term planning. Acting in accordance with current legislation and choosing the correct application category is the most important step of the process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bulgarian Residence Permits
Can One Work in Europe with a Bulgarian Residence Card?
A Bulgarian residence card only grants its holder the right to legally reside in Bulgaria. It does not grant the right to work in other European Union countries; a separate work and residence permit is required for each country.
Which Countries Can Be Visited with a Bulgarian Residence Permit?
A Bulgarian residence permit allows visa-free travel within the Schengen area for short stays (within the 90 days / 180 days rule); however, it does not grant the right to work or settle long-term in other countries.
Does a Bulgarian Residence Permit Replace a Visa?
People with a Bulgarian residence permit do not need to obtain a separate Schengen visa for short-term travel within the Schengen area. One can travel in Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This 90-day right is recalculated in each 180-day period. However, this permit does not grant the right to work or stay long-term in other Schengen countries; for such cases, the relevant country’s national visa must be obtained.
You can also check out our previous blog post: How to Obtain a Portuguese Residence Permit?
