Bulgaria Golden Visa Benefits

The Bulgaria Golden Visa is a permanent residency by investment program, offering a fast-track route to EU residency and citizenship. Unlike Portugal, where a €512,000 investment grants only temporary residency, Bulgaria provides permanent residency immediately, with no stay requirements or frequent renewals.

This makes Bulgaria one of the most convenient and cost-effective Golden Visa programs in Europe. It allows investors to live, work, and travel freely across the EU, while also enjoying a low-tax business environment and strong investment potential.

Why is the Bulgaria Golden Visa a great option in 2025?

With several European countries tightening or closing their Golden Visa programs, Bulgaria has emerged as one of the most attractive and stable options for investors seeking EU residency in 2025.

In recent years, Ireland and Spain have officially terminated their Golden Visa schemes, eliminating popular pathways for foreign investors. Meanwhile, Portugal has significantly restricted its program, removing key investment options such as real estate and capital transfers, which were once major draws for global applicants.

Adding to this shift, the European Union is taking a firmer stance on Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. The EU has announced plans to revoke visa-free access for passport holders from Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts & Nevis, and Saint Lucia—countries known for offering CBI schemes with minimal connection to residency or physical presence. Notably, Vanuatu passport holders lost their visa-free EU access entirely at the end of 2024.

Against this backdrop, Bulgaria stands out with its transparent, EU-compliant Permanent Residency by Investment program, offering a secure and long-term solution for global investors looking for access to Europe without the uncertainty surrounding other programs.

Key Benefits at a Glance

✔ Permanent Residency from the Start – Unlike Portugal’s temporary residency, the Bulgaria Golden Visa grants permanent residency by investment.
✔ No Frequent Renewals – Residency cards are valid for five years, reducing administrative hassle and ongoing compliance.
✔ No Minimum Stay Requirement – Maintain your residency without relocating or visiting annually.
✔ Fast-Track Processing – Receive your permanent residency card within 10 business days after biometric submission.
✔ Clear Path to Citizenship – Eligible to apply for Bulgarian citizenship after just five years.
✔ Visa-Free European Travel – Enjoy unrestricted movement across the EU and Schengen Area.
✔ Favorable Tax Environment – Take advantage of Europe’s lowest flat tax rate of 10% for both individuals and businesses.
✔ Diverse Investment Opportunities – Invest in real estate, rental income properties, or other business ventures tailored to your goals.
✔ Family-Friendly Program – Include your spouse, children, parents, and parents-in-law under a single application.

1️⃣ Affordability

The Bulgaria Golden Visa stands out as one of the most affordable investment-based residency programs in Europe.

For just €512,000, you can secure permanent residency, while in comparison:

  • Malta requires at least €690,000, with no guaranteed return.
  • Austria demands a massive €2 million investment for citizenship.
  • Portugal only offers temporary residency, requiring ongoing renewals and visits.

In addition to affordability, the investment structure is unique—unlike other programs, Bulgaria allows funds to invest in real estate, offering higher security and tangible assets.

2️⃣ Path to Citizenship

✔ The Bulgaria Golden Visa leads to citizenship through naturalization after five years. Applicants are required to achieve A1 language level and declare income in Bulgaria. 
✔ Unlike Spain or Italy, which require 10 years, Bulgaria provides a faster route to citizenship.

3️⃣ Family Benefits

✔ The Bulgaria Golden Visa extends its benefits to your entire family, making it one of the most inclusive residency programs.

  • Spouse
  • Children (biological or adopted) under 18
  • Parents and parents-in-law
  • Siblings (under 18) if legally dependent

After five years, family members can also apply for Bulgarian citizenship, securing long-term stability for the entire household.

4️⃣ Travel Flexibility

One of the biggest practical advantages of the Bulgaria Golden Visa is the ability to travel freely across the Schengen Zone:

✔ Visa-free travel to the EU & Schengen Area – Stay up to 90 days every 180 days.
✔ No need for additional visas to travel within Schengen countries.

5️⃣ Tax Advantages

Bulgaria boasts one of the most competitive tax regimes in the EU, making it an ideal destination for investors and entrepreneurs:

✔ Flat 10% tax rate – The lowest corporate and personal income tax in the EU.
✔ Dividend tax of just 5%.
✔ No wealth tax.
✔ Minimal property and inheritance tax.
✔ Double taxation treaties with most jurisdictions.

6️⃣ Education Benefits

Families relocating through the Bulgaria Golden Visa gain access to high-quality education in both public and private schools.

✔ Access to Bulgarian public education – Free enrollment in state schools.
✔ Option for private international schooling – Taught in English, with smaller class sizes and modern facilities.
✔ Pathway to study in EU universities with lower tuition fees.

To discuss your Bulgaria Golden Visa application, feel free to contact our team.