FAQ
Common questions.
How much income do I need for the Bulgaria retirement visa?
You need the right to a pension and enough money to live on, at least the Bulgarian minimum monthly wage or minimum pension for each month of your stay. The official page does not give the current figure.
Is there an age limit for the Bulgaria retirement visa?
There is no set age, but you must already have the right to a pension.
What do I need for the Bulgaria retirement visa?
The official page asks for: document showing your right to a pension, bulgarian bank account for the pension, proof of a home, medical insurance valid in Bulgaria, criminal record certificate and passport with a type D visa.
Do I need health insurance?
Compulsory medical insurance valid in Bulgaria, unless you are covered by Bulgarian health insurance.
Can I work on the Bulgaria retirement visa?
The official page does not say whether you may work on this permit.
How long do I need to spend in Bulgaria?
The official pages do not set a minimum stay for this permit. For permanent residence you must not have been away for more than 30 months in the 5 years.
Does the Bulgaria retirement visa lead to permanent residence?
After 5 years of legal and unbroken residence you can apply for permanent residence, if you were not away for more than 30 months in that time.
How long does the Bulgaria retirement visa last?
Long-term residence is granted for up to 1 year. Yes. Apply at least 14 days before your permit or visa ends.
How much does the Bulgaria retirement visa cost?
BGN 10 to apply, then BGN 200 for a permit of up to 6 months or BGN 500 for up to 1 year, as the official page lists them.
Who can apply for the Bulgaria retirement visa?
Open to people from outside the EU, the EEA and Switzerland. People from outside the EU who have the right to a pension and enough money to live on in Bulgaria.
Can I bring my family?
Family members of the permit holder can also apply for long-term residence.
How do I apply?
First get a type D visa at a Bulgarian embassy or consulate. Then apply to the Migration Directorate of the Ministry of Interior or the regional police directorate in Bulgaria. Up to 14 days from the application, which can be extended by one month.
Sources
- Bulgaria: Long-term residence permit for people with a pension (продължително пребиваване) (iisda.government.bg)
- Bulgaria: Long-term residence permit for people with a pension (продължително пребиваване) (mfa.bg)
- Bulgaria: Long-term residence permit for people with a pension (продължително пребиваване) (mfa.bg)
General information, not legal advice. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.