Overview 

Bulgaria, an EU Member State with full Schengen access as of January 2025, offers a strategic gateway to Europe. It combines affordability with opportunity, providing access to public education and healthcare systems, and a stable environment supported by legally sound and professionally managed processes. With a cost of living and investment framework more attractive than many Western EU countries, Bulgaria ensures a straightforward permanent residency renewal process every five years, making it an appealing option for those seeking long-term European residence and integration.

Bulgaria’s Residency by Investment Program stands out as one of the most secure, flexible, and cost-effective Golden Visa options in the European Union. Through investment in approved real estate or regulated funds, applicants can obtain permanent residency with the potential to apply for citizenship by naturalization in just five years. The program offers full Schengen travel rights, a simplified process, and does not require relocation or physical residence — making it ideal for global investors seeking European access, lifestyle benefits, and future citizenship opportunities.

Key program details 

Visa-free countries (after citizenship): 179
Visa-free access to Schengen: Yes 
Minimum Investment: €316,000

Residency requirement: No Physical stay requirement but if invested through the real estate route, the main applicant will be required a one two-week visit per year.

Leads to Permanent Residency: Direct PR, but through the Real estate route, the PR will be eligible after 5 years of temporary residency. 

Leads to citizenship: After 5 years

Investment holding period: 5 years

Eligible Family Members:

• Spouse
• Minor children
• Dependent Parents

For personal assistance, contact ROC Citizenship to schedule a free consultation. Our team will assess your eligibility and guide you through every stage of the application process.

Benefits of Bulgaria Residency

• Schengen Access granted immediately with PR
• No Physical stay requirement
• Dual citizenship allowed
• Full Inclusion of Spouse, minor children, and dependent parents
• Low investment threshold compared to other EU programs
• Stable economy and EU legal protection
• Cost-effective living and tax benefits
• Strong real estate growth and fund performance
• Path to citizenship after 5 or 10 years

Investment Options

• Real Estate Route – Minimum Investment of €316,000

• Property held for 5 years 
• Rental returns: typically, 3%–6% annually 
• In Strategic cities: Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, Burgas 
• Full legal support included 

• Regulated Investment Fund Route – Minimum Investment of €512,000

• Into a government-approved Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) 
• Permanent Residency granted after full process (~8 months) 
• No relocation or presence requirements 
• Returns up to 7% annually, with multiple risk-based sub classes being introduced soon 
• Strong legal and regulatory framework aligned with EU norms

Application Process

Step-by-Step Application Procedure (Real Estate Route)

1.  CONSULTATION AND PROPERTY SELECTION: Choose qualifying property with legal and tax guidance. 
2. LEGAL PURCHASE AND FUND TRANSFER: Complete purchase through notary; funds transferred via licensed process.
3. D VISA APPLICATION: Apply via Bulgarian consulate with required documents (passport, insurance, proof of funds, etc.)
4. TEMPORARY RESIDENCY: Issues upon arrival and biometrics (~14 business days processing)
5. Permanent Residency Eligibility: After 5 years of continuous temporary residency and must retain property for the duration.
6. CITIZENSHIP APPLICATION: After 5 years of PR and Basic Bulgarian language required (A1/A2 level); exemption possible via completion of a language course leading to A1. 

Step-by-Step Application Procedure (Investment Fund Route)

• PRE-APPROVAL & BACKGROUND CHECK: Submit documents to the Bulgarian Investment Agency (~2 months).

• FUND TRANSFER TRANSFER: €512,000 to the regulated fund; obtain investment certificate.

1. 1. D VISA APPLICATION: Submit visa application at a Bulgarian embassy (processing ~2 months).
   2. PERMANENT RESIDENCY ISSUED: Upon biometrics appointment in Bulgaria (~2 months)

• TOTAL TIMELINE: End-to-end process takes approximately 8 months, accounting for administrative and client response delays.
• CITIZENSHIP ELIGIBILITY: After 5 years of PR (5 years from start) and Basic Bulgarian language required (A1/A2 level); exemption possible via completion of a language course leading to A1.