3-4 months
3-4 months
€307,000 EUR
170+ countries
3-4 months
€307,000 EUR
170+ countries
The Bulgaria Residency by Investment Program provides an attractive pathway for individuals looking for EU residency, with investment options offering both security and flexibility. With its potential for citizenship after five years, it is a popular choice for investors seeking long-term benefits and access to the European Union.
Bulgaria offers a thriving business environment with a flat 10% corporate tax, one of the lowest in the EU. Its strategic location between Europe and Asia makes it an attractive hub for trade and investment. The country supports foreign investors with incentives and a simplified company registration process.
Bulgaria provides affordable, high-quality education, with a mix of public, private, and international schools. Universities are recognized across Europe, and many programs are available in English, German, and French, making it a great choice for international students.
Bulgaria has a universal healthcare system, offering both public and private medical services. Private healthcare facilities provide high-quality treatment at competitive costs, making the country an emerging destination for medical tourism.
Bulgaria has a welcoming expat community, especially in major cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna. The country’s mix of modern urban life and scenic countryside provides a balance between cultural experiences and outdoor activities.
Bulgaria offers a low cost of living compared to Western Europe while maintaining a high quality of life. It boasts stunning nature, historic sites, and a relaxed lifestyle, with an emphasis on family, social gatherings, and outdoor activities.
Want a deeper look at the pros and cons of relocating? Read our Top Pros and Cons of Living in Bulgaria: Our Guide.
Bulgaria has a flat 10% personal income tax rate, making it one of the most tax-friendly countries in Europe. Investors are not required to become tax residents unless they spend more than 183 days in the country. There are no wealth, inheritance, or local taxes, further enhancing its appeal for investors.
Bulgaria offers an affordable cost of living, making it an attractive option for investors and expatriates. Housing is reasonably priced, with rental and property costs significantly lower than in Western Europe. Utilities, groceries, and transportation are also budget-friendly, allowing residents to enjoy a high quality of life without excessive expenses. Dining out is affordable, and the country’s healthcare system provides accessible and cost-effective medical services. Overall, Bulgaria provides a comfortable and financially sustainable lifestyle, especially for those looking to optimize their expenses while enjoying a European living experience.
| Category | Details |
| Program Overview | The Bulgarian Residency Program enables foreign investors to obtain residency through investing in Bulgarian Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) or Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). |
| Investment Requirements | Minimum investment: BGN 1 million (approximately €512,000) |
| Residency Approval | Granted within 6-9 months. |
| Eligibility | Open to all nationalities. However, some banks may face compliance restrictions when opening accounts for nationals of Iran, Afghanistan, or Syria. |
| Eligible Dependents | Eligible dependents include the spouse and children under 18. Parents of the main applicant or spouse may also be included if they are over 55 and receive a pension |
| Schengen Access | Since January 2025, Bulgaria has been a full Schengen member, allowing travel without border controls. |
| Faster U.S. Visa Process | Holders can apply for a B1/B2 U.S. visa through the U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria. |
| Path to Citizenship | Permanent residency can be obtained after 5 years, leading to citizenship if conditions are met. |
Key Facts
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To apply for the Bulgaria Golden Visa, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including:
Obtaining Bulgarian permanent residency through investment is a structured, multi-phase process that takes around 6-9 months with the following steps:
The application fee for the Bulgaria Golden Visa varies based on the number of applicants and specific administrative costs. Fees typically cover government processing, legal services, and biometric registration. Additional costs may apply for dependents, document translation, and notarization.
The minimum investment required for the Bulgaria Golden Visa is 600,000 BGN (approx. 307,000 EUR).
The Bulgaria Golden Visa allows the main applicant to include their spouse and children under 18. Parents of both the applicant and spouse can also qualify if they are over 55 years old and have a pension income.
Residency is initially granted for one year and must be renewed annually. The renewal process requires a visit to Bulgaria or the Bulgarian embassy once per year, with processing taking approximately five working days. Permanent residency can be obtained after five years, provided all conditions are met.
The Bulgaria permanent residency card is valid for 5 years, and then it needs to be renewed. The renewal application should be submitted before the card’s expiry. The process takes 2 weeks; in case there’s a need for additional documents, the process can take up to 1 month.
During the renewal, you need to provide the following:
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Program Summary
Learn more about the country and it's citizenship by investment.
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate, and work with an experienced lawyer to guide you through the process.
Yes, Bulgaria is now part of the Schengen area. A Schengen visa allows travel to Bulgaria, Romania, and other Schengen countries for a short stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
You can include your spouse, children under 18, and parents over 55 with a pension income.
Though not officially called a "Golden Visa”, Bulgaria grants permanent residence through an approved investment of at least 1 million BGN in AIFs or bulgarian based ETFS or government-approved projects.
No longer valid as real estate is not an investment option anymore.
Through a qualified investment of at least 1 million BGN (€512,000) in approved financial instruments like AIFs or ETFs.
Around 6-9 months.
