Bulgaria officially joined the Eurozone on 1 January 2026, following its entry into the Schengen Area in 2025. These milestones mark a historic step in Bulgaria’s integration into the European Union, granting full freedom of movement and enhanced economic stability. Together, these developments make Bulgaria increasingly attractive to international investors, particularly those considering the Golden Visa program.

Euro Adoption and Economic Benefits

Joining the Eurozone brings monetary stability, eliminates currency risk associated with the Bulgarian lev, and simplifies cross-border transactions, banking, and investment processes. For Golden Visa applicants, this creates a more secure and predictable investment environment, recognized internationally and aligned with EU standards.

Bulgaria’s Golden Visa Program

Bulgaria offers two main routes for obtaining permanent residence through investment, without the obligation to live in the country:

1. Investment Funds Route: Investment of approximately EUR 500,000 in approved Bulgarian funds. This fully passive option leads to permanent residence and eligibility for citizenship after five years.

2. Real Estate Route: Investment exceeding EUR 316,000 in Bulgarian real estate. This path leads to long-term residence and eligibility for citizenship after ten years, provided the investment and qualifying ties are maintained.

With flexible residence requirements, competitive investment thresholds, and EU integration benefits, Bulgaria’s Golden Visa is now positioned as one of Europe’s most compelling investment migration options.

Summary 

Bulgaria’s Eurozone membership and Schengen access enhance the value of its Golden Visa program by providing economic stability, ease of movement, and internationally recognized investment conditions. Investors can now enjoy secure, flexible, and highly attractive pathways to permanent residence and citizenship, making Bulgaria a standout choice for European investment migration.