Bulgaria Residence by Investment

Bulgaria Residence by Investment Overview

Bulgaria offers a structured residence by investment program that grants qualifying applicants permanent residence status through approved financial contributions. Through investment in eligible instruments such as Bulgarian alternative investment funds, collective investment schemes, or qualifying companies, applicants may obtain permanent residence with no minimum physical stay requirement and no language obligation. The residence permit is valid for five years and renewable, providing the right to live, work, and study in Bulgaria, along with access to public healthcare, social security, and education systems.

Strategically positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Bulgaria combines EU connectivity, competitive tax policies, and a cost-effective business environment, making it an attractive option for internationally minded investors and families seeking long-term stability within Europe.

Benefits of Bulgaria Residence by Investment

• Live, study, and work in Bulgaria
• Strategic location with visa-free access to other European Union countries
• Attractive tax regime
• No residence or language requirements
• Family inclusion, allowing the main applicant to include their spouse, unmarried dependent children under 18, and unmarried children over 18 who are unable to support themselves due to a serious health condition
• Access to public healthcare, social security, and education systems

Requirements for Bulgaria Residence by Investment

To qualify for a residence by investment in Bulgaria, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Non-EEA citizen
• A valid type D visa at the beginning of the application process in order to enter Bulgaria
• Proof of no criminal record in the country of residence or citizenship
• Proof of a legitimate source of funds
• Minimum investment of EUR 512,000
• Hold a euro (EUR) bank account in an FATF-compliant country

 Applicants can choose one of following four investment options:

1. Acquire shares or bonds of Bulgarian commercial companies traded on a regulated market or multilateral trading facility, with a market value of at least EUR 1.03 million
2. Acquire shares in Bulgarian collective investment schemes with Bulgarian origin, operating under the Collective Investment Schemes and Other Undertakings for Collective Investments Act, with a market value of at least EUR 512,000
3. Acquire shares in alternative investment funds (AIF) established in Bulgaria, managed by entities that oversee AIFs with Bulgarian origin, operating under the Collective Investment Schemes and Other Undertakings for Collective Investments Act, with a market value of at least EUR 512,000
4. Invest at least EUR 256,000 in the capital of a Bulgarian company, where the investor is a shareholder owning at least 50% of the company’s capital. The investment must result in the acquisition of new long-term fixed assets worth at least EUR 256,000 and the employment of at least 10 Bulgarian citizens for the entire period of residence, as certified by the Ministry of Innovation and Growth

Procedure for Bulgaria Residence by Investment

Foreigners planning to stay in Bulgaria long-term must apply for a permanent residence permit, which is granted for an indefinite period. The residence card is valid for five years and can be renewed upon expiry. After five years of permanent residence, individuals may apply for Bulgarian citizenship; however, this process requires passing a language proficiency test and canceling their current citizenship.