Two Simple Steps for Obtaining a Residence Permit

Legal Basis:

• Pensioners supported by a state pension, who are citizens of the respective country, and have sufficient means to reside in Bulgaria.
• Article 24, paragraph 1, item 10 of the Law on Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria.
• The permit is valid for up to one year.

Who it is suitable for:

•  Age pensioners.
• Disability pensioners.
• Service years pensioners.

Advantages:

• Any foreign pensioner with sufficient means to live in the country can apply.
• Simple document preparation procedure.
• High approval rate of applications.
• Low overhead costs.
• Right to apply for residence permits for family members.

Disadvantages:

•  Increased insurance costs for individuals over 70 years old.
• Need to provide prior evidence of financial support by depositing an amount equal to 12 minimum pensions in a Bulgarian bank.
•  No right to work on an employment basis.
• Some regional migration services require official translation of pension payments to Bulgaria.

For pensioners from abroad, this method provides a legal opportunity to settle and is the most popular among foreign citizens.

Independent application for a Residence Permit in Bulgaria as a pensioner, supported by a pension from the government of the country of which he is a citizen