International protection
refugee status and humanitarian status · Official name: Международна закрила
People seeking protection in Bulgaria apply at a State Agency for Refugees (SAR) centre or tell any state body. SAR registers the claim, issues a registration card, interviews the applicant and decides. The government portal says the procedure lasts four months, extendable up to six.
Life in Bulgaria
Finance
3
Currency
Bulgarian Lev
BGN
Bulgarian Lev
Cost of living
24
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
Flat 10%
Income tax (national)
VAT 20%
Flat 10% on the annual tax base after mandatory social contributions; 15% for sole proprietors.
Living
1
Happiness
#82 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Who it’s for
People in Bulgaria who fear persecution or serious harm in their home country.
Eligibility
Apply in Bulgaria
Apply in writing at a SAR centre or tell another state body; an interpreter is provided if needed.
- Sofia SAR centre: Registration and Reception Center, Ovcha Kupel, 21A Montevideo Street
Official wording
Visit a SAR centre (in Sofia: Registration and Reception Center, Ovcha Kupel, 21A Montevideo Street) or tell another state body. The application is in writing; an interpreter is provided if needed.
Registration
Give your biographical data, photo and fingerprints, and carry your registration card at all times.
- SAR keeps identity documents until the final decision
Official wording
Biographical data, photo and fingerprints are taken. Identity documents are kept by SAR until the final decision. The applicant receives a registration card to carry at all times.
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- 2 documents
- 1 fee
- 4 steps
- Processing times and conditions
Official sources
Other routes to Bulgaria
- Visit & tourismShort-stay (Schengen type C) visa
- StudyProlonged residence for students and researchers
- Work permitsSingle permit for residence and work
- 3 more routes with Premium
