Relocating to Bulgaria
RESIDENCE PERMITS FOR INVESTORS AND ENTREPRENEURS
Bulgaria is rapidly becoming one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for those seeking EU residence with flexible and well-defined legal pathways. With EU and Schengen access, low taxes, and affordable living and business costs, Bulgaria offers a compelling base for investors, families, and entrepreneurs.
Two main routes are available under Bulgarian law:
- Investment-based residence
- Business program via a Bulgarian branch
These routes are governed primarily by:
Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act
https://www.mig.government.bg/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/foreigners_in_the_republic_of_bulgaria_act.pdf
Investment Promotion Act
https://investmentpolicy.unctad.org/investment-laws/laws/382/bulgaria-investment-promotion-act
1. Residence permit by investment
Bulgarian law explicitly grants long-term residence to foreigners who make qualifying investments in the Bulgarian economy. These rules are set out in Article 25, Paragraphs 6–8 of the Foreigners Act.
Regulated investment funds – Article 25(6)(c)
One of the most widely used structures is investing in Bulgarian collective investment schemes.
Financial instruments or investment funds
- Investment in alternative investment funds (AIFs), ETFs, or publicly traded shares may meet the residence requirements.
- Indicative minimum investment: approximately €500,000
- The investment must be maintained for a defined period to keep residency status.
Risk capital investment
- Lower investment thresholds may apply if part of the funds are allocated to risk capital, contributing to economic growth and job creation within Bulgaria.
Advantages of the investment route:
- No requirement to run an active business.
- Ideal for passive investors, retirees, or individuals seeking stable EU residency.
- Possibility to include family members in the residence application.
Other possible routes for investment:
- Alternative financial investments – Article 25(6)(a)
- Priority investment projects – Article 25(7)
- Large private company investment – Article 25(8)
2. Business program via a Bulgarian branch
An alternative to passive investment is establishing or expanding business operations in Bulgaria through a local branch of a foreign company. This option is particularly attractive to international entrepreneurs and business owners.
What is the business program?
Under this program, a residence permit can be obtained by showing a business plan in Bulgaria through a Bulgarian branch of an existing foreign company. The focus is merely on marketing promotion of mother sponsor company services, trading, or other commercial activities.
This route is grounded in Article 24, Paragraph 6 of the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act, which allows long-term residence for foreigners who represent a foreign company with a registered and verified presence in Bulgaria and a proven business history.
Key requirements
- Register a Bulgarian branch of a foreign company with the Bulgarian Commercial Register.
- Present a viable and sustainable business plan.
Why choose the business program?
- Ideal for those who want to get access to the European market
- Residency is directly linked to your agent role.
- A practical solution for business owners (or deputy owners) willing to get European market access.
Additional considerations
Family reunification
In both pathways, spouses and dependent children can usually apply for residence permits linked to the main applicant, making relocation easier for the whole family.
Schengen mobility
With Bulgaria’s integration into the Schengen Area, residence permit holders benefit from freedom of movement across Schengen countries, a key advantage for business and travel in Europe.
Timelines and procedures
Processing times is very attractive: with quality of documentation, resident permits will be obtained in 3-4 months
Why choose Bulgaria?
Key advantages include:
- Access to the European Union and Schengen Area. And from 1st of January 2026 EURO area.
- Competitive tax system. Lowest in all European Union
- Lower living and business costs compared to many EU countries.
- Attractive opportunities for both investors and entrepreneurs seeking a legal base in Europe.
- One of the lowest debt/cost ratios. With only 26% Bulgaria demonstrate a very attractive investment climate, resulting in Lower risk premium for capital allocation
- No minimum stay required by the law
Final thoughts
Bulgaria offers two powerful and fully legal ways to secure EU residence:
- Invest under Articles 25(6)–(8)
- Operate a business through a Bulgarian branch under Article 24(6)
The right choice depends on whether you prefer to deploy capital or explore business opportunities.
Useful resources for your move
To help you navigate your relocation, we recommend consulting these official and informative sources:
- Taxation & Finance: Bulgarian National Revenue Agency – Understand the 10% flat tax system.
- Business setup: InvestBulgaria Agency (IBA) – Official government portal for foreign investors.
- Schengen information: European Commission - Schengen Area – Details on travel rights for residents.
- Company research: Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) – For networking and business verification.
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