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BulgariaStatus in-countryLast checked October 17, 2026

Prolonged residence for pensioners

Foreign nationals who receive a pension (from Bulgaria, their home country or another country) and have enough money to live can get a prolonged residence permit. They show a pension certificate and a Bulgarian bank account where the pension is paid. Applicants normally enter on a type D visa.

See requirements ↓

Life in Bulgaria

Money

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.

Official rates, 2026 · headline only

Living

1

Happiness

5.7

#82 of 145 countries

World Happiness Report 2025

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Who it’s for

Retirees receiving a foreign or Bulgarian pension.

Eligibility

  • Pension

    Granted a pension under the law of Bulgaria, the home country or another country.

  • Means

    At least the minimum pension or minimum monthly wage for the period of stay.

  • Bulgarian bank account

    A bank certificate showing an account in Bulgaria where the pension will be received.

A sneak peek at what's inside

  • Document checklistCopy of valid passport (photo, data, D visa and last entry stamp pages); original shown
  • FeesApplication (service) fee
  • Steps to applyGet a type D visa from a Bulgarian mission

The full requirements are for members

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  • 8 documents
  • 4 fees
  • 3 steps
  • Processing times and conditions
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