Bulgaria is introducing visas for digital nomads!

With the amendments made to the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act, the country will provide the opportunity to obtain a special visa for remote workers.

When does the new regime take effect?

The law was passed by the National Assembly on 18 June 2025 and published in Държавен вестник No. 52 of 27 June 2025. According to information from EY Bulgaria, the new visa regime for digital nomads takes effect on 30 June 2025.

️ When will the regime become fully operational?

According to the transitional provisions of the law, full application of the new regime is expected at the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026.

‍ Who can apply?

To obtain the visa, an applicant must meet one of the following criteria:

• Have an employment contract with an employer registered outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland and provide remote services using information technology;
• Be a co-owner or manager of a foreign company that provides remote services and does not serve clients in Bulgaria;
• Or be a self-employed professional (freelancer) who has been providing remote services for at least one year prior to submitting the application, also without working with Bulgarian clients.

What steps need to be taken?

Before submitting the application, the applicant must obtain a long-term type D visa, valid for up to 6 months and granting the right to stay in Bulgaria for up to 180 days.

Why choose Bulgaria?

With the introduction of the new visa regime, Bulgaria joins the ranks of European countries actively supporting modern forms of employment. An affordable cost of living, developed IT infrastructure and rich cultural heritage make the country attractive to digital nomads. This new measure will also contribute to the development of the economy, tourism and the technology sector.