Residence permit in Bulgaria for pensioners
Bulgaria is one of the most affordable EU countries for pensioners. The requirements here are much milder than in other European countries, and the cost of living allows you to live comfortably in retirement.
To obtain a residence permit, it is enough to confirm the status of a pensioner and the availability of sufficient funds in the account. No additional grounds are needed.
With a residence permit, a pensioner does not have the right to work for a Bulgarian employer. If the spouse wants to work, he can apply for a residence permit for family reunification and obtain a work permit.
For D visa
Amount in the bank account at the time of submission of documents to the consulate
For a residence permit
The amount in the Bulgarian bank account at the time of applying for a residence permit
Consultation
We analyze your situation, check eligibility, explain the whole process and what needs to be prepared.
Collection of documents for a D visa
We are preparing a package for submission to the Bulgarian consulate in your country of residence. All documents are translated into Bulgarian and certified.
The list of documents is belowApplying to the Consulate and Waiting for a D Visa
You submit the documents to the Bulgarian consulate in person. It is better to sign up in advance - there are queues.
The processing time is about 30-40 daysEntry to Bulgaria
You enter with a visa D. From this moment, you have 6 months to apply for a residence permit - it is better not to delay.
Opening a Bulgarian bank account
Open an account and place the required amount - the equivalent of 12 minimum Bulgarian pensions. A bank statement is needed to apply for a residence permit.
Applying for a residence permit
Submit documents to the migration service in person. In Burgas there is a live queue, there is no appointment, it is better to come in the morning.
Waiting for a decision
The migration service considers the documents.
14 days - up to 1 monthObtaining a residence permit card
The card is issued in person at the migration service. The first residence permit is for 1 year, then renewal. After 5 years, you can apply for permanent residence.
Urgent – 3 days / Standard – 10 days / Regular – up to 30 daysFor a D visa – to be submitted at the consulate
International passport
Valid for at least 18 months, minimum 2 blank pages
Completed application form with photo
Certificate of pension for 3 months
Translated into Bulgarian
Bank statement
The amount is not less than 6 minimum Bulgarian pensions
Proof of housing in Bulgaria
1 Year Lease Agreement or Title Deeds
Health insurance
Coverage of at least €30,000, for a minimum of 6 months
Police clearance certificate
With translation into Bulgarian, valid for 6 months
Certificate of opening an account in a Bulgarian bank
For a residence permit – submitted to the migration service
Application in Bulgarian
International passport with visa D
Original + copy of the main page, page with visa D and entry stamp
Proof of accommodation
Notarized lease agreement or property documents
Health insurance
For the entire duration of the stay
Bank statement
The amount is not less than 12 minimum Bulgarian pensions
Certificate of pension
Translated into Bulgarian