Citizenship for ethnic Bulgarians

It’s simple

For most people, obtaining Bulgarian citizenship becomes a difficult quest — you can only apply for it after ten years of residence in the country: first with a long-term residence permit, then with a permanent residence permit. But when it comes to ethnic Bulgarians, that is, people with Bulgarian roots, the citizenship procedure is considerably simplified.

It so happens that Bulgaria’s population is slowly but surely declining: young people are leaving the country in search of a better life. That is why the authorities are trying to attract Bulgarians from other countries. Bulgarian citizenship by origin (on the basis of Article 15 of the Citizenship Act) may be claimed by children (including adopted children) of ethnic Bulgarians or Bulgarian citizens.

Applications from people wishing to return to their historical homeland are carefully reviewed and verified. If the Bulgarian origin is beyond doubt, you can safely submit an application for citizenship.

Advantages

Obtaining citizenship on the basis of Bulgarian roots is one of the few options that allows you to keep your previous citizenship. So what does Bulgarian citizenship give you?

First of all, newly minted citizens receive all the rights held by Bulgarians born and raised in the country. They can, for example, work (including in public office) and earn a living; receive medical treatment using insurance-based healthcare; buy and register property and land in their own name; receive benefits; take out loans; vote in elections and even stand as candidates in them.

In addition, since the country joined the European Union in 2007, Bulgarians have had the right to move freely within the EU, to live, study and work in other member states. Citizens of the country already have this opportunity now, before the accession to Schengen planned for 2017.

A Bulgarian passport is viewed favourably not only in Europe. EU citizens usually find it easy to obtain a visa to visit other countries, and the attitude towards them is somewhat more lenient than towards holders of Russian, Ukrainian or Belarusian passports.

Bulgarian citizenship

Citizenship in Bulgaria by naturalisation

Citizenship in Bulgaria by origin

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