The Bulgaria Golden Visa is now one of the most attractive residency-by-investment programs in Europe. Since January 1, 2025, Bulgaria has been a full member of the Schengen Area, granting investors unparalleled freedom of movement and making this program a leading choice for those seeking EU mobility, stability, and tax efficiency.
Quick Answer: Bulgaria Golden Visa
The Bulgaria Golden Visa allows non-EU citizens to obtain permanent residence in Bulgaria through a qualifying investment of €512,000 (approximately BGN 1,000,000) in government-regulated investment funds. Successful applicants receive permanent residency from day one, no physical stay requirement, full family inclusion, and Schengen travel freedom, with eligibility to apply for Bulgarian citizenship after five years.
What is the Bulgaria Golden Visa?
The Bulgaria Golden Visa allows non-EU citizens to obtain permanent residence in Bulgaria through a qualifying investment. From day one, successful applicants and their families enjoy nearly the same rights as Bulgarian citizens – with the exception of voting.
For a broader overview of residency options, see our guide: Bulgaria Residence Permit: A Complete Guide for EU & Non-EU Citizens.
Investment Requirements
To qualify, investors must place €512,000 (approximately BGN 1,000,000) into government-licensed investment funds (AIFs) or other qualifying vehicles. These funds are regulated by the Bulgarian Financial Supervision Commission and focus primarily on Bulgarian assets.
A major advantage of the program is the pre-approval stage: the InvestBulgaria Agency verifies the origin of funds and the applicant’s background before the investment is made, reducing risk for investors.
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to non-EU citizens from all countries (except those under international sanctions). Applicants may include spouses, children, parents, and in-laws in the same application.
Key Benefits
- Permanent Residence from Day One – no temporary permits required.
- Fast Processing – typically between 3 to 8 months.
- No Physical Stay Requirement – residency can be maintained without living in Bulgaria.
- Low Taxes – a flat 10% personal income and dividend tax rate, among the lowest in the EU.
- Comprehensive Family Inclusion – cover close family members in one application.
- Path to Citizenship – eligible to apply for a Bulgarian passport after 5 years of PR.
- Schengen Freedom – travel without border checks across the entire Schengen Zone.
For tax implications, see our detailed guide: Tax Residence in Bulgaria: A Guide for Expats and Investors.
Practical Considerations
- Applicants must present a clean criminal record and proof of a lawful source of funds.
- A FATF-compliant foreign bank account is sufficient; opening a Bulgarian bank account is not always necessary.
- There is no language requirement for permanent residency.
- For citizenship, basic language skills and integration checks apply.
- The D Visa application is handled via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Consular Services before permanent residency is granted.
Why Bulgaria?
With its EU membership, Schengen access, low cost of living, and business-friendly environment, Bulgaria offers both lifestyle advantages and financial efficiency. The Bulgaria Golden Visa provides investors and their families with a secure and straightforward route to residency and, in time, EU citizenship.
👉 How Aidos Can Help
At Aidos, we guide international clients through the entire Bulgaria Golden Visa process. Our integrated legal and accounting team provides:
- Structuring the investment to meet all legal requirements.
- Navigating the pre-approval and application process with the authorities.
- Tailored tax planning for global assets.
- Assistance with company formation if required.
Contact us for a confidential consultation to see how the Bulgaria Golden Visa can be the right solution for you and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Bulgaria Golden Visa
1. How long does it take to obtain Bulgaria Golden Visa residency?
Processing usually takes 3 to 8 months, depending on documentation and authority checks.
2. Do I need to live in Bulgaria to keep my residency?
No. The Bulgaria Golden Visa has no physical stay requirement.
3. Can my family be included in the application?
Yes. Spouses, children, parents, and in-laws can be included.
4. Is there a fast-track option for citizenship?
Currently, you must hold permanent residency for 5 years before applying for citizenship.
5. Do I need a Bulgarian bank account?
No, a FATF-compliant foreign bank account is accepted.
6. What taxes apply under the Bulgaria Golden Visa?
Residents benefit from Bulgaria’s flat 10% tax on personal income and dividends.
Last reviewed and updated: January 2026
📌 Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Immigration and tax laws may change, and each case should be assessed individually with professional guidance.
Note: Some of the images used in this blogpost are AI-generated for illustrative purposes only.