Bulgaria has officially introduced a Digital Nomad Visa, offering non-EU remote workers a new and affordable base in Europe. With a lower cost of living than many Western European countries, reliable internet infrastructure, and easy access to both mountains and beaches, Bulgaria is becoming an attractive option for digital nomads planning a move in 2026.
Who Is Eligible?
The Digital Nomad Visa is available to non-EU/EEA citizens who work remotely and earn their income from outside Bulgaria. Applicants must fall into one of the following categories:
- Remote employees of companies registered outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland
- Business owners or shareholders holding at least 25% ownership in a foreign company
- Freelancers or independent professionals working with non-Bulgarian clients for at least one year
Applicants must also meet a minimum annual income requirement of €31,000, based on 50 times Bulgaria’s monthly minimum wage (€620).
How to Apply?
The application process consists of two steps:
- Type D Long-Stay Visa:
Applicants must apply at a Bulgarian embassy or consulate in their country of residence. Processing usually takes 4–8 weeks. - Residence Permit in Bulgaria:
After entering Bulgaria, applicants must submit a residence permit application under the Digital Nomad program within 14 days.
Required Documents
Typical documents include proof of accommodation, a clean criminal record certificate, proof of income, valid health insurance covering Bulgaria and the EU, and translated/apostilled documents where required.
Validity
The residence permit is issued for one year and can be renewed for an additional year, provided eligibility conditions continue to be met.
