Get Your Bulgaria Golden Visa – Investment Residency Guide
Eligibility Overview
Bulgaria offers a Golden Visa program that grants permanent residency through investment. It’s one of the more affordable options in the EU, with relatively fast processing and no residency requirement.
To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a non-EU/EEA citizen
- Hold a valid passport
- Have a clean criminal record
- Prove a legal source of funds
- Make a minimum investment of €512,000
Investment Options
Applicants can invest in regulated Bulgarian financial instruments, including:
- Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) – the most common route, designed for stable, diversified returns
- Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) – liquid investments traded on stock exchanges
All investments must:
- Be licensed by the Bulgarian Financial Supervision Commission
- Be held for at least 5 years
Family Inclusion
You can include:
- Your spouse
- Your children
Family members can apply once the main applicant receives permanent residency.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Pre-Approval & Due Diligence
Submit initial documents to the Bulgarian Investment Agency, including proof of funds, background checks, and compliance declarations.
Step 2: Make the Investment
Invest €512,000 into an approved Bulgarian fund and receive an official investment certificate.
Step 3: Apply for a D-Type Visa
A D-Type Visa is a long-stay visa that allows you to enter Bulgaria and complete your permanent residency application. Apply at a Bulgarian embassy or consulate. Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks
Step 4: Obtain Permanent Residency
Travel to Bulgaria, complete biometrics, and apply for your permanent residence card.
Step 5: Add Family Members
Once approved, your family members can follow the same process
Benefits of the Bulgaria Golden Visa
Bulgaria’s program is attractive because it combines low investment thresholds with strong EU benefits:
- Fast permanent residency (typically 6–9 months)
- No physical residency requirement
- No language requirement
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen area
- Flat 10% tax rate (one of the lowest in the EU)
- Access to EU healthcare and education
- No need to open a Bulgarian bank account
Frequently asked questions.
How long does it take to get Bulgaria permanent residency?
Most applicants receive permanent residency in about 6 to 9 months.
Do I need to live in Bulgaria?
No, there is no physical residency requirement, making it ideal for remote investors.
Can I get citizenship through this program?
Yes, but you must maintain your investment and meet long-term residency requirements.
Do I need to speak Bulgarian?
No, there is no language requirement for permanent residency.
Can my family apply with me?
Yes, you can include your spouse, children, and dependent parents.
Do I need to pay taxes in Bulgaria?
If you become a tax resident, Bulgaria offers a flat 10% income tax rate, one of the lowest in Europe.