The Bulgaria
Permanent Residence
& Citizenship
Program

Bulgaria, a Balkan nation known for its low cost of living, strategic location, and EU membership, has emerged as a promising destination for non-EU citizens seeking residence and eventual citizenship. Whether you're an entrepreneur, retiree, or family migrant, Bulgaria's flexible immigration pathways offer practical routes to both permanent residency (PR) and citizenship.

In this guide, we explore:

• Bulgaria Citizenship by Investment – Suspended
• Residence Permit Bulgaria for Non-EU Citizens
• Temporary Residence Permit in Bulgaria
• What is the Bulgaria TRC Card?
• Bulgaria Permanent Residence Requirements (PR)
• Bulgaria Citizenship by Marriage
• Long-Term Residency vs. Permanent Residency
• Final Thoughts
• F.A.Q.

Bulgaria Citizenship by Investment – Suspended

Until recently, Bulgaria was one of the few EU nations offering citizenship through investment. This scheme allowed investors to fast-track their citizenship by contributing approximately €1 million in government bonds or company shares.

Why Was It Suspended?

In March 2022, Bulgaria officially suspended the citizenship-by-investment program, aligning with EU pressure to eliminate fast-track schemes that could risk national security and promote money laundering.

Residence Permit Bulgaria for Non-EU Citizens

Non-EU citizens need to obtain a residence permit to stay in Bulgaria legally for more than 90 days. The process begins with applying for a Type D visa (long-stay), which is the foundation for obtaining a Temporary Residence Card (TRC).

What is a Type D Visa for Bulgaria?

The Type D visa is a long-stay visa issued by the Republic of Bulgaria. It is designed for non-EU/EEA nationals who plan to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days with the intention of applying for residency (temporary or permanent).

Key Features of the Type D Visa:

Temporary Residence Permit in Bulgaria 

Whether you’re planning to work remotely, join your family or start a business in Bulgaria, you’ll need a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) to live in Bulgaria without permanent residence. .

A Temporary Residence Permit allows non-EU citizens to legally live in Bulgaria for more than 90 days, typically up to 12 months at a time, and it can be renewed annually.

Steps to Get temporary Residence Permit

Step 1: Apply for a Type D Visa from Outside Bulgaria

Step 2: Travel to Bulgaria and Register Your Address
Step 3: Apply for the Temporary Residence Permit (TRC Card)

TRC Renewal Rules

You can renew your temporary residence permit annually, and after 5 continuous years, you may become eligible for Permanent Residence (PR).

For TRC, no language test is needed. But it’s useful, especially if you're planning for citizenship in the future.

What is the Bulgaria TRC Card?

TRC stands for Temporary Residence Card. It’s an official ID issued by the Bulgarian government that allows non-EU citizens to legally stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days and up to 12 months, with the possibility to renew.

Think of it as your gateway to legal life in Bulgaria — whether you're there to work remotely, study, join as a spouse, or retire in the countryside.

With more non-EU digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and remote workers heading to the Balkans, the Bulgaria TRC card is used as an affordable and flexible way to access the EU lifestyle.

Who Needs a TRC Card?

If you're a citizen of a non-EU country (like India, USA, UAE, or South Africa), and you want to live in Bulgaria for more than 90 days, you must get a TRC card after entering the country with a Type D long-stay visa.

Typical applicants include:

• Freelancers and digital nomads
• Family members of Bulgarian citizens
• Business owners or startup founders
• Foreign retirees with sufficient income
• Students enrolled in Bulgarian universities

Bulgaria TRC Card Processing Time

Applicants should start the process 2–3 months in advance to avoid delays.

Required Documents for TRC Card:

• Valid passport
• Proof of accommodation in Bulgaria
• Health insurance
• Proof of financial means
• Clean criminal record

Bulgaria Permanent Residence Requirements (PR)

Once a foreign national has lawfully resided in Bulgaria for five consecutive years (under TRC), they become eligible to apply for Permanent Residency.

Bulgaria Citizenship by Marriage

One of the most reliable naturalization routes for non-EU nationals is citizenship through marriage.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Legally married to a Bulgarian citizen
• Lived in Bulgaria with a residence permit for at least 3 years
• Demonstrated integration into Bulgarian society (e.g., basic language skills, civic knowledge)
• Clean criminal history

Benefits:

• Accelerated citizenship timeline
• Access to full civil rights
• No need for investment or extended work history

Long-Term Residency vs. Permanent Residency

While both permit long stays, they differ slightly in PR benefits and timelines.

Final Thoughts

The Bulgarian PR and citizenship framework offers real opportunities for non-EU citizens seeking a life in the EU. Though the investment route has ended, viable paths through residence, work, and marriage remain.

Bulgaria continues to attract global interest due to:

• Streamlined residence processes
• Low cost of living
• Growing international business ecosystem
• Strategic EU location

Always consult with a licensed immigration advisor or Bulgarian legal expert before starting the process, as immigration laws are subject to change.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)