Introduction
Bulgaria, as a member of the European Union, is an attractive options for relocation for foreign investors. One of the most effective ways to obtain long-term residency is through investment in real estate. Under the Law on Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria, foreign nationals who invest at least BGN 600,000 (approx. EUR 307,000) in real estate can qualify for long-term residence. This investment can be made personally or through a Bulgarian company where the applicant owns more than 50% of the shares (majority shareholder). This program allows investors to establish a stable presence in Bulgaria while benefiting from a strategic location in the EU.
This pathway is both easy and increasingly preferred due to the rising price of property in Europe. While a few years ago this seemed like a high investment, it now equates to the cost of a comfortable three-room apartment in a desirable neighborhood in Sofia.
Eligibility Criteria
A foreign national can apply for long-term residence if they meet one of the following criteria:
1. Personally own real estate in Bulgaria worth at least BGN 600,000, OR
2. Hold more than 50% of the shares in a Bulgarian company that owns real estate worth at least BGN 600,000.
✅ The real estate can be one or multiple properties, totaling at least BGN 600,000.
✅ The company does not necessarily need to be operational, but it must legally own the real estate.
✅ At the time of applying for a long-term residence permit, the foreigner or the legal entity must have fully paid the purchase price, and the funds must have been deposited in a Bulgarian-licensed bank institution.
✅ If the properties were acquired with loaned funds, the outstanding portion of the loan must not exceed 25% of the total investment.
Step-by-Step Procedure
1. Purchase Real Estate
• The applicant must purchase real estate in Bulgaria either personally or through a Bulgarian company where they hold more than 50% of the shares.
• The purchase must be officially registered in the Property Registry.
• Payments should be made via bank transfer.
2. Obtain a Type D Visa (Visa D)
• Before applying for residency, the applicant must apply for a Type D visa from the Bulgarian embassy in their home country.
⏳ Processing time: Up to 60 days.
3. Apply for a Long-Term Residence Permit
• Once in Bulgaria with a Type D visa, the applicant must submit a residence permit application to the Migration Directorate of the Ministry of Interior.
⏳ Processing time: Up to 14 days.
• If approved, the applicant receives a one-year renewable long-term residence permit.
Key Conditions
✅ The investment (BGN 600,000+) must be maintained throughout the residence period.
✅ After 5 years of continuous lon-term residence, the applicant can apply for permanent residence.
Additional Considerations
• Family Members: The applicant’s spouse and children are eligible for family reunification.
Conclusion
Investing in Bulgarian real estate—whether personally or through a company—is a viable pathway to long-term residency. With Bulgaria’s EU membership, holding a residence permit grants access to a dynamic business environment, travel flexibility, and potential opportunities for permanent residency or citizenship.
Legalla.io can assist investors throughout the entire process, including:
✅ Company incorporation for investment purposes
✅ Finding and securing the right real estate property
✅ Verification of the ownership documents
✅ Representing the buyer before the notary
✅ Supporting with Visa D and residency applications
If you are considering real estate investment in Bulgaria 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.
