Bulgaria has officially joined the growing list of European countries offering special residence options for remote workers, launching a new digital nomad visa aimed at attracting international talent.
The introduction of the visa follows Bulgaria’s entry into the Schengen Area and its transition to the euro, marking a strategic move to position the country as an attractive base for location-independent professionals. Under the new scheme, foreign remote workers can legally reside in Bulgaria while benefiting from its relatively low cost of living and expanding coworking infrastructure.
The digital nomad visa is open to citizens of non-EU and non-EEA countries who work remotely and earn income from sources outside Bulgaria. Eligible applicants include employees of foreign companies, business owners with at least a 25% stake in an overseas company, and freelancers with stable contracts from non-Bulgarian clients lasting at least one year.
A key requirement is proof of a minimum annual income of €31,000, equivalent to 50 times Bulgaria’s minimum monthly wage. Authorities say the threshold is designed to ensure financial stability while remaining competitive compared with similar schemes across Europe.
Application process and validity
The application process is carried out in two stages. Applicants must first obtain a long-stay Type D visa from a Bulgarian consulate abroad. After entering Bulgaria, they are required to apply for a residence permit within 14 days. The total processing time is estimated at around three months.
The residence permit is issued for one year and can be renewed annually, provided the applicant continues to meet the income and remote work requirements.
Why Bulgaria appeals to remote workers
Digital nomads and long-term travellers are increasingly drawn to Bulgaria for its combination of affordability and quality of life. The country offers access to both ski resorts and the Black Sea coast, alongside improving transport links across Europe enabled by Schengen membership.
Applicants must submit standard documentation, including proof of accommodation in Bulgaria (rental or ownership), a criminal record certificate, valid health insurance covering the entire Schengen area, and officially translated documents in Bulgarian.
With the launch of the digital nomad visa, Bulgaria joins a competitive European market for remote workers, positioning itself as a cost-effective and well-connected alternative to more established digital nomad destinations.
