What Is the Bulgaria Golden Visa in 2026

The Bulgaria Golden Visa is a permanent residency by investment program that requires a €512,000 investment in a Bulgaria government-regulated fund. The fund must be managed by a Bulgarian Fund Management Company and is strictly mandated to invest exclusively in Bulgarian assets. At present, only a limited number of funds meet the rigorous criteria outlined in the Bulgarian Citizenship Act to qualify for this program.

Compared to Portugal’s Golden Visa, Bulgaria’s program offers greater investment flexibility, as funds are also permitted to invest in real estate. In contrast, real estate-focused programs like Greece’s Golden Visa may present challenges, such as inflated property prices driven by local agents. The Bulgarian Golden Visa stands out with its transparent, government-regulated framework, making it a secure and attractive choice for investors looking to obtain EU residency or citizenship.

Stay Updated on the Latest Developments in the Bulgaria Golden Visa Program

🏆 Steps to Obtain Bulgaria Golden Visa & Permanent Residency

Step 1: Due Diligence & Eligibility Check (⏳ Improved to 4 weeks as of Jan 2026)

📌 Conducted by the Bulgarian Investment Agency
✅ Requirements:

• Bank reference confirming a balance of at least €512,000 in an EUR account held in an FATF-compliant jurisdiction
• Source of Income
• No criminal record
  🚀 Outcome: Pre-approval to proceed with the investment

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Step 2: Investment & Visa Application (⏳ 2 Months)

💰 Make the Investment

• Subscribe to a Bulgarian Investment Fund by transferring the €512,000
  📄 D Visa Application
• Submit documents to the Bulgarian Embassy in your home country
• Processing time: Up to 2 months
  🚀 Outcome: Issuance of a D Visa (valid for 6 months)

👉 Why the Bulgaria Golden Visa Program Is Not Publicly Advertised?

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Step 3: Permanent Residency Application (⏳ 2 Months)

🛂 Apply for Permanent Residency

• Must be done within 3 months before the D Visa expires
  ✈ Visit Bulgaria for providing biometrics
  📅 Residency Card Issued in 10 Days
  🚀 Outcome: Permanent Residency Granted

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Step 4: Family Reunification

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Initiate Family Reunification

• Once permanent residency is granted, family members (spouse, children, and parents) can apply to join you

👉 Bulgaria’s Golden Visa program does not recognize same-sex LGBTQ+ spouses as eligible family members.

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Step 5: Citizenship Eligibility (After 5 Years)

⏳ Maintain Investment for 6 Years
🏛 After 5 Years – Option to apply for Bulgarian Citizenship or keep PR status

👉 Do I Need to Renounce My Citizenship to Obtain Bulgarian Citizenship?

Bulgaria Vs Portugal Golden Visa Comparison

Feature	Bulgaria Golden Visa	Portugal Golden Visa
Minimum Investment Requirement	€512,000	€500,000 (varies by investment type)
Investment Options	Investment in Bulgarian Fund	Investment funds, job creation
Permanent Residency Granted Immediately	✅ Yes, immediately upon approval	❌ No, initially temporary residency
Time to Permanent Residency	6 to 8 months	5 years after temporary residency is granted
Time to Citizenship Eligibility	5 years	10 years
Physical Residency Requirement	✅ No, no mandatory stay required	🚨 Yes, minimum 7 days per year required
Visa-Free Travel	✅ Yes, visa-free travel within EU & Schengen	✅ Yes, visa-free travel within EU & Schengen
Family Inclusion	✅ Yes, includes spouse, children & parents	✅ Yes, includes spouse, children & dependent parents
Renewal Frequency	Every 5 years	🚨 Every 2 years
Language Requirement for Citizenship	✅ Exemption possible (basic A1 level required)	🚨 Yes, full Portuguese A2 language test required
Tax Benefits	✅ Low tax rates, 10% corporate & personal tax	✅ Tax incentives (NHR tax regime for 10 years)
Citizenship Processing Time	12-18 months	12-18 months
Is the Fund Allowed to Invest in Real Estate?	✅ Yes, funds can invest in real estate	❌ No, funds cannot invest in real estate

Bulgaria Golden Visa Investment Process

1. Direct Investment Route

Investors can directly transfer their investment into a Fund, bypassing brokers and intermediaries. This streamlines the process and enhances efficiency.

2. No Bulgarian Bank Account Required

Investments can be made from abroad, provided that the investor’s bank complies with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) regulations. This eliminates the need to open a bank account in Bulgaria, simplifying the application process.

3. Fast & Efficient Processing

Once the funds are received, investment certificates are issued promptly, enabling a faster Golden Visa application process.

Who Can Apply for the Bulgaria Golden Visa Program?

The Bulgaria Golden Visa Program is open to applicants of all nationalities, with no restrictions based on country of origin. However, to qualify, individuals must meet specific financial, legal, and procedural requirements.

A key requirement is financial eligibility. Applicants must hold a bank account denominated in EUR with a minimum balance of €512,000, opened in a FATF-compliant jurisdiction. Please find all requirements of the Bulgaria Golden Visa program. If your country does not fully comply with FATF requirements, our team can connect you with a consultant who will assist in opening an eligible EUR account in a FATF-compliant jurisdiction.

Why Choose Us?

🔹 Results-Oriented Approach – We only take on cases where we have proven experience and confidence in achieving the desired outcome. We understand that when you invest in a premium service, you expect premium results.

🔹 Transparent Expectations – You will have a clear understanding of your chances before committing. No false promises, no hidden surprises—only straightforward, informed decision-making.

🔹 Commitment to Excellence – We work exclusively with trusted partners and legal professionals who share our dedication to delivering results.

🔹 End-to-End Assistance – From investment structuring to legal support, we handle every step of your Bulgarian Golden Visa application, ensuring a smooth and successful process.