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BulgariaStudyLast checked October 17, 2026

Prolonged residence for students and researchers

Third-country nationals admitted to full-time study at a Bulgarian college or university, or to a research project with a listed research organisation, can get a prolonged residence permit. They need a type D visa first. Students already admitted in another EU state can get a permit for part of their course in Bulgaria.

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

Your edge here Members

What gives you an edge here: passports, visas and permits you hold, work, study, language and family ties

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Who it’s for

International students, exchange students, unpaid trainees and researchers.

Eligibility

  • Admission

    You need admission for regular training, a high-school exchange programme, or unpaid trainee work.

    • Regular training at a college or university
    Official wording

    Admitted for regular training at a college or university, a high-school exchange programme, or as an unpaid trainee.

  • ResearchersResearchers

    A signed hosting agreement with a research organisation on the national list.

  • Visa

    Hold a type D visa under Art. 15(1).

A sneak peek at what's inside

  • Next requirementMeans
  • Document checklistCopy of valid passport (photo, data, D visa and last entry stamp pages); original shown
  • FeesApplication (service) fee

The full requirements are for members

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  • 1 more requirement
  • 7 documents
  • 2 fees
  • 3 steps
  • Processing times and conditions
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Programs and scholarships Members

Study programs here that can lead to work and settlement, grouped by route and ranked for your background, with scholarships matched to your profile.

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Places to visit in Bulgaria

Attractions picked for you, based on your profile and interests.

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Official sources

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