Immigrate to Bulgaria from the UK

If you plan to immigrate to Bulgaria from the UK, below you will find useful information to make your arrival in this country easy. We also invite you to ask for the support of our immigration lawyers in Bulgaria if you have difficulties or simply want a hassle-free relocation process.

What conditions must I abide by if I am a British citizen and have EU residence?

Citizens of the UK who lived in Bulgaria before the end of 2020 and have residence permits can enter and leave the country based on their previously obtained documents; therefore, there are no special requirements they need to comply with. Also, they can renew their Bulgarian residence permits prior to expiry.

Do I need an entry visa if I travel from the UK to Bulgaria? How about if I move there on a long-term basis?

You do not need a visa if your stay in Bulgaria is less than 3 months. For periods exceeding 3 months, you need to apply for a Bulgarian temporary residence permit.

What are the means to relocate to Bulgaria from the UK temporarily?

You can apply for a temporary residence permit as a:

• student, if you were accepted in a Bulgarian educational institution;
• employee, if you signed a labor agreement with a Bulgarian employer (in this case, you will also be granted a work visa);
• family member of a Bulgarian resident/ citizen.

IMPORTANT! The initial temporary residence permit is issued for a one-year period, just like in the case of other non-EU citizens.

Where do I submit the documents to immigrate to Bulgaria from the UK?

You can start the immigration procedure with the Bulgarian Embassy in London.

What are the requirements to move to Bulgaria from the UK based on employment?

There are 2 scenarios to consider for those who are interested in moving from the UK to Bulgaria through employment:

• the first one applies to British nationals who have never lived in an EU country before;
• the second one is available for UK citizens who have lived and/or worked in at least one EU state before 2021, under the Withdrawal Agreement.

In the first situation, the British citizen emigrating to Bulgaria from the UK must apply for a work permit and/or residence permit, depending on the type of employment secured. In the second scenario, Withdrawal Agreement rights apply only in the country where the person lived before 2021, so a Bulgarian permit is still needed unless that country was Bulgaria.

Please note that for first-time UK immigrants to Bulgaria, a clean criminal record must also be obtained.

How can I relocate to Bulgaria from the UK as an entrepreneur?

Starting a business in Bulgaria can be a great option for those emigrating to Bulgaria from the UK. For this purpose, British nationals must apply for a temporary residence permit, which can enable them to obtain permanent residency followed by citizenship in Bulgaria.

How long does it take to be issued a Bulgarian temporary residence permit if I am a British national?

Approximately one month. However, it is important to note that you must also apply for a national D visa when moving to Bulgaria from the UK, and the visa will be used as proof of legal stay until your residence card is issued.

What is the most common way for Brits to immigrate to Bulgaria?

Employment and investment. Our Bulgarian lawyers can assist in both types of relocation.

Can I purchase a property and move to Bulgaria from the UK?

Yes, you can buy real estate with the purpose of relocating to Bulgaria.

How long must I reside in Bulgaria to obtain permanent residency?

5 years.

Is there a direct way to obtain permanent residency in Bulgaria as a British national?

Yes, you can enter the residency by investment program, which entails having sufficient money to invest in a government-approved investment fund.

How long must I live in Bulgaria to obtain citizenship?

5 years based on a permanent residence permit. This means a total of 10 years to obtain a Bulgarian passport.

Feel free to contact us for support with the immigration formalities from the UK.