Family reunification in Bulgaria: key procedures and differences

Category 1. Reunification with a Bulgarian citizen

A simplified relocation procedure is provided for family members of a citizen of the Republic of Bulgaria (spouses, minor children).

• Is prior permission required in Bulgaria? No, there is no need to apply to the Migration Directorate of the Ministry of Interior before travelling to obtain the visa.
• Process: The applicant files an application for a long-stay type D visa directly with a Bulgarian diplomatic or consular mission abroad.
• Obtaining the long-term residence permit: After entering the country on a type D visa, the long-term residence permit is issued directly by the Migration Directorate of the Ministry of Interior.

Category 2. Reunification with a citizen of another EU state

The procedure is governed by European legislation (Directive 2004/38/EC), which guarantees freedom of movement for family members of Union citizens. This procedure applies to those whose relatives have already obtained status in Bulgaria.

• Is a type D visa required? No, obtaining an immigration type D visa is not required.
• Process: A family member may enter Bulgaria on a standard Schengen visa, under the visa-free regime (where applicable) or with a valid family member residence card issued by another EU country.
• Obtaining the long-term residence permit: While in Bulgaria, the relative, together with the EU citizen, files an application directly with the local office of the Migration Directorate of the Ministry of Interior. The documents are reviewed promptly, after which a residence card is issued (“Family member of an EU citizen”, «Член на семейство на гражданин на ЕС»).

Category 3. Reunification with a third-country national

This is the strictest, two-stage procedure, for those moving to join a foreign national holding a long-term residence permit, a permanent residence permit or EU long-term resident status in Bulgaria.

Stage 1. Permission in Bulgaria (Migration Directorate of the Ministry of Interior)

The host party files an application (молба) and a set of documents with the Migration Directorate at the place of residence. The review period is up to 1 month. If the decision is positive, an official permit is issued (Решение за разрешение за събиране на семейство).

Stage 2. Obtaining the type D visa

After approval, the family member being reunited applies to the Bulgarian embassy or consulate for a type D visa, presenting the permit obtained.

Comparative table of procedures

Important details and choosing the country where you apply for a type D visa

1. Where is the type D visa issued? As a general rule, documents are submitted to the Bulgarian consulate in the country of citizenship or permanent residence (if you hold a long-term residence permit or permanent residence permit of that country).
2. Applying in a third country: In practice, where there are objective reasons or permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, an application for a type D visa on the basis of an already issued permit may be approved at a Bulgarian consulate in a third country.
3. Completing the procedure: A family reunification permit is usually valid for 6 months. Within this time you must obtain a type D visa, enter the country and submit documents for your long-term residence permit card.

Need help with family reunification in Bulgaria?
Bulgarian Expert specialists will help you determine the right procedure for your particular situation, prepare the documents and guide you through the process — from the reunification permit and type D visa to obtaining a long-term residence permit in Bulgaria.

Book a consultation:
🌐 bulgarianexpert.com
💬 Telegram: @bulgariaexpert