Visa requirements for Bulgaria vary according to nationality and the intended purpose of the stay. EU citizens can live and work in Bulgaria without a visa, while the process is much more complicated for those not from the EU.
Visas for Bulgaria
Understanding the fundamentals
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Short-stay visa (C Visa)
For stays of up to 90 days, nationals of a number of countries – including the US, the UK and Australia – are eligible for a visa on arrival. Those who don’t fall under this category will need to apply for a C Visa ahead of time at a consulate or embassy in their home country.
Applicants should submit the relevant forms and documents no earlier than three months before the intended departure date.
Expats with valid Schengen visas can stay in Bulgaria for 90 days in any six month period without the need for a C Visa.
Long-stay visa (D Visa)
Stays of longer than 90 days require a D visa. Applicants are interviewed in person and will have to show proof of medical insurance, accommodation and access to sufficient funds during their stay.
It isn’t possible to change from a C Visa to a D Visa while in Bulgaria, meaning that the D visa application must be made from an embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of permanent residence.
Long-stay visas allow the holder to reside in Bulgaria for up to 180 days.
Work permits in Bulgaria
Non-EU expats wanting to take up employment in Bulgaria will need a work permit. To apply for one, they must already have a job offer, as the Bulgarian employer takes care of the application process for the most part. Generally, work permits are only issued to expats with specialised skills. They are valid for one year and can be renewed.
For EU nationals, the process is much easier – those wanting to work in Bulgaria simply need to register at the Employment Office in their area.
Long-term residence permit
A long-stay residence permit allows the holder to live in Bulgaria for one year. These are granted to expats who meet specific requirements, including those who have already secured a work permit, are starting a business that will employ a certain number of locals, or are married to a Bulgarian citizen.
The long-term residence permit can be renewed annually. After five continuous years of residence, expats can apply for permanent residency status.