Family is central in most of the major life decisions, including relocation to another country. Family reunification for Bulgarian residents is an important way through which families can be reunited in Bulgaria. Whether you are a third-country citizen or an EU long-term resident in Bulgaria, cognizance of the legal framework regulating family reunification provides a key to success in the pursuit of this process.
Benefits of Family Reunification in Bulgaria
- Enhanced Stability: Allows families to live together under a single legal framework. It is suitable when at one of the family members plans to stay in Bulgaria on some of the legal grounds for longer period.
- Access to Rights and Services: Reunited family members gain access to health, education, and employment opportunities.
- Pathway to Permanent Residence or Citizenship: Family members may eventually qualify for long-term residence or Bulgarian citizenship.
Who Is Eligible for Family Reunification?
Family reunification in Bulgaria is primarily designed to allow certain categories of family members to join a resident who holds a valid residence permit. Eligible family members typically include:
- Spouses;
- Minor children, including adopted children of the resident or their spouse.
These are the most usual cases. Depending on the legal ground of the resident’s permit, there could be more potential applicants for family reunification in Bulgaria. For example, there is the procedure under art. 24, para 1, n. 7: Eligible for family reunification are financially secure parents of a Bulgarian citizen or a foreigner who holds a permanent residence permit, when the documents certifying the family ties originating abroad are recognized or allowed for execution and are registered in accordance with the Bulgarian legislation.
Eligibility of the Resident
- Long-Term or Permanent Residence – the inviting person must hold a valid long-term residence permit or permanent residence permit in Bulgaria. The same is applicable for a foreigner granted asylum, temporary protection or humanitarian status. Having a residence permit or such status is a mandatory requirement for initiating the Family Reunification Procedure in Bulgaria.
- Duration of Stay Requirement – Non-EU nationals holding a long-term residence permit are typically required to have resided in Bulgaria for at least one year before applying for family reunification. This requirement ensures a stable legal status for the sponsor.
Residence Permits for Family Members
Upon approval of a family reunification application, family members may receive:
- Long-Term Residence Permits: Typically valid for one year and renewable annually.
- Permanent Residence Permits: Available after a qualifying period, often five years of continuous residence.
The duration of the permit could be also determined by the permit of the family member who first applied for Bulgarian residence permit. Family members may also gain access to the Bulgarian labor market, education, and healthcare services, subject to specific conditions. It depends on the residency legal ground and on other legal requirements. Under Art. 3. (1) Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria have all the rights and obligations according to the Bulgarian laws and the ratified international treaties to which the Republic of Bulgaria is a party, with the exception of those for which Bulgarian citizenship is required
Required Documentation
The application process involves submitting detailed documentation to the Bulgarian Migration Directorate. Key documents include:
- Valid passports for all family members applying.
- Proof of family relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificates).
- Proof of suitable accommodation in Bulgaria (usually with the Bulgarian resident).
There are other documents that should be provided to the Government authorities as some of them may be on their further request, but the above mentioned are the crucial ones without there can’t be any success in the procedure.
Application Process
- Initiating the Application: Keep in mind that the procedure is strictly personal on the presence of all involved parties is mandatory. There will be interviews and personal submission of documents where most certainly you will need some consulting prior to that.
- Document Verification: Bulgarian authorities will review the application for accuracy and compliance with legal requirements. It is crucial to submit everything as per the instructions and in time. Of course, some additions could be made, but it will slow up the process and can make it more expensive.
- Decision Timeline: Decisions are typically issued within 90 days, though this timeline may vary depending on the complexity of the case. It also depends on the accuracy of the documentation and if everything is submitted properly.
Specific Considerations for Non-EU Family Members
Family members from non-EU countries may face additional requirements, such as presenting apostilled or legalized documents. They must also obtain a Visa D before entering Bulgaria for the purpose of reunification. This makes the process a bit more costly and time consuming, but there are additional requirements when it comes to thirds country citizens. You can reach to for more information in that regard.
While the process of family reunification in Bulgaria is straightforward on paper, applicants may encounter challenges such as document translation, legalizations, representation or proving financial sufficiency. Partnering with experienced legal professionals can simplify these complexities, ensuring a smoother family reunification in Bulgaria. If you have any question, you can always reach out to us and we would be glad to take care of your case.
