Bulgaria Launches a New Digital Nomad Visa

Bulgaria officially launched its Digital Nomad Visa and started accepting applications on December 20, 2025.

The new permit creates a formal route for remote professionals and entrepreneurs from outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland to live and work from Bulgaria while employed or running businesses abroad.

Key Program Details

• Minimum income: €31,000 per year (50 times Bulgaria’s monthly minimum salary)
• Permit validity: 1 year, renewable once for another year
• Residency path: No direct route to permanent residency unless transitioning to another visa type
• Eligibility: Remote employees, business owners, or self-employed service providers working exclusively with non-EU clients

Applicants must first obtain a multi-entry visa before applying for residence inside Bulgaria.

The entire process, from visa issuance to residence approval, typically takes between 4 and 8 weeks.

Dependents may also apply through family reunification procedures.

Bulgaria’s Expanding Mobility Framework

The new Digital Nomad Visa adds to Bulgaria’s growing portfolio of mobility programs.

The country also operates an Investor Visa, granting permanent residency to investors committing BGN 1 million (~$602,000) to eligible projects or funds, with potential citizenship after approximately six years.

By launching this new digital nomad pathway, Bulgaria joins other EU states such as Greece, Spain, and Portugal in offering flexible residence options for remote professionals.