Bulgaria offers a diverse blend of rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and growing opportunities for work and business. As an EU member state, Bulgaria upholds the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in European law, including the right to family life. For foreigners residing in Bulgaria, the family reunification procedure is a key pathway to bringing loved ones together, ensuring families stay connected and supported in their new home.
Understanding the eligibility criteria for family reunification is essential for those considering this option. In this article, we will explore who can apply for family reunification in Bulgaria and which family members are eligible to join them.
Who Can Apply for Family Reunification in Bulgaria?
Foreigners residing in Bulgaria may apply for family reunification if they meet specific conditions under Bulgarian law, particularly the Law on Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria, as well as relevant EU directives. The following are the primary eligibility criteria:
- Legal Residency Status
- The applicant (referred to as the sponsor) must hold either:
- Permanent residence (“постоянно пребиваване” or “дългосрочно пребиваване”); or
- Long-term residence (“продължително пребиваване”), provided the sponsor meets the specific criteria for family reunification.
- The applicant (referred to as the sponsor) must hold either:
- Financial Means
- The applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient financial resources to support their family members without relying on public funds.
- Accommodation and Health Insurance
- Adequate housing and valid health insurance must be available for all family members.
Who Is Eligible for Family Reunification?
The Bulgarian legal framework allows sponsors to reunite with specific family members. These include:
- Spouse
- Legally married spouses are eligible for family reunification. Partnerships that are not legally recognized as marriages under Bulgarian law (e.g., civil unions) are generally excluded.
- Children
- Dependent children under 18 of either the sponsor or their spouse.
- Adopted children are treated as biological children under Bulgarian law.
- Unmarried adult children may qualify if they are unable to support themselves due to health reasons or disability.
- Parents
- Parents of the sponsor – permanent resident (“постоянно пребиваван” only) can be reunited if they are financially independent
- Special Humanitarian Cases
- While not common, other relatives may qualify for reunification if there are exceptional humanitarian circumstances.
Family Reunification for Bulgarian Citizens
Bulgarian citizens also have the right to reunite with their foreign family members. Eligible family members include:
- Spouse
- The legally married spouse of a Bulgarian citizen is eligible for family reunification.
- Children
- Children under 18 who are dependents of the Bulgarian citizen or their spouse.
- Adult children who are unable to support themselves due to health issues or disability.
- Parents
- Parents of Bulgarian citizens can apply for reunification if they are financially dependent on their child and there is no one else to support them in their home country.
- Other Dependents
- In exceptional cases, other dependent relatives may qualify if humanitarian reasons are demonstrated.
Family Reunification for British Citizens
Under the Withdrawal Agreement following Brexit, British citizens residing in Bulgaria before December 31, 2020, are entitled to family reunification under EU rules. British nationals who arrived after this date are treated as third-country nationals and must follow the national rules outlined above.
Conclusion
Family reunification is a vital pathway for maintaining family ties and ensuring emotional and financial support for loved ones. Bulgaria provides clear opportunities for family members to join their sponsors, fostering a sense of belonging and stability in a new country. However, the eligibility criteria can be complex, and each case may involve specific nuances.
If you are considering family reunification and need personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to contact Legalla, your trusted partner for immigration and legal services in Bulgaria. We are here to assist you in navigating the legal landscape and bringing your family closer together.
