Bulgaria introduced a Digital Nomad Visa in mid-2025, adding a new legal ground for long-term residence for remote workers from outside the EU. While the legal basis existed since June 2025, the procedure only became practically applicable after the adoption of the implementing rules on 20 December 2025. As of January 2026, applications can now be submitted under a clear and functioning framework.
This article serves as a practical legal guide for foreigners considering Bulgaria as a base for remote work, outlining who qualifies, what the key conditions are, and what makes the country an increasingly practical choice.
What is the Bulgarian Digital Nomad Visa?
The Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU, non-EEA and non-Swiss nationals to obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria while carrying out professional activities entirely remotely for foreign employers or clients. The permit is issued for a period of up to one year and may be extended once, allowing a total stay of up to two years under this ground.
The core idea behind the visa is simple: the work must be performed remotely, income must originate from abroad, and no services may be provided to clients or entities located in Bulgaria.
Who qualifies for the digital nomad viSa?
Under the Foreigners in Bulgaria Act, a digital nomad is a foreign national who fits one of these categories:
Remote employee
Has a valid employment contract with a company registered outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland and provides services online. The contract must remain valid for at least as long as the residence permit.
Business owner or shareholder
Acts as an owner, director, or shareholder (holding at least 25% of shares) in a foreign-registered company that provides online services exclusively outside Bulgaria.
Freelancer or independent contractor
Has been delivering online services for at least one year prior to the application and does not work with Bulgarian clients.
Note: In all cases, services cannot be provided to clients in Bulgaria under this visa.
Income requirements
Applicants must prove a minimum average annual income equal to at least 50 Bulgarian minimum monthly salaries for the previous calendar year, based on the gross amount of earnings.
Note: The minimum monthly salary for 2026 is at the amount of EUR 620.
This threshold is intended to ensure financial self-sufficiency during the stay in Bulgaria and is one of the key points reviewed during the application process.
Length of Stay
The residence permit is issued for one year and may be extended once for an additional year. After the two-year period, applicants must consider a different residence ground if they wish to remain in Bulgaria.
Why is Bulgaria an attractive base for remote work
Bulgaria continues to attract remote professionals due to its overall affordability, good infrastructure and legal clarity for long-term residence.
Living costs remain lower than in most EU countries, especially outside the capital. This allows digital nomads to maintain a comfortable lifestyle without excessive monthly expenses.
Internet connectivity is strong and reliable, and mobile data plans are widely accessible. Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna and Bansko all have established coworking communities, as well as co-living concepts designed specifically for remote workers.
From 2026, Bulgaria officially adopted the euro as its national currency. This removes currency exchange risks, simplifies cross-border payments and makes everyday financial planning easier for both foreigners and local residents. The euro also strengthens Bulgaria’s integration into the EU internal market, which is relevant for entrepreneurs and mobile professionals alike.
Internet & Coworking Spaces
For digital nomads, reliable internet is a non-negotiable when choosing the next base. Bulgaria offers some of the fastest internet speeds across Europe, with affordable mobile data plans as a bonus.
Sofia offers more than 30 co-working spaces, while Plovdiv, Varna, and even the ski town of Bansko also have growing remote work communities. There are also co-living spaces where you can both live and work while you are residing in Bulgaria. There are all the conditions you could wish for to continue your life the best way possible.
Culture, Food & Lifestyle
Bulgaria blends rich history with a modern, welcoming feel. The food is delicious and affordable, with local favorites like banitsa (a pastry snack), shopska salad, and grill.
The country also offers an exciting nightlife scene, relaxing spa resorts, and endless outdoor activities – from hiking in the Rila Mountains to chilling on the Black Sea coast. The nature is beautiful and you can find almost any landscape possible and practice your hobbies and interests regularly.
Taxes & Banking
One of the biggest financial perks of moving to Bulgaria is its low tax rate. Many nomads are deciding to register a company in Bulgaria due to the attractive 10% flat tax rate. Also, becoming a tax resident of Bulgaria could also bring you positives when it comes to tax optimization for you as a person. It could be really useful, especially when you want to cut such costs to a minimum.
Setting up a local bank account can have its difficulties, but many digital nomads prefer using online banking solutions for easier and cheaper international transactions.
Challenges to Consider
While Bulgaria has a lot to offer, there are a few things to keep in mind before making the final decision on relocating yourself and your business:
The language barrier
English is widely spoken in bigger cities, but in smaller towns, learning some basic Bulgarian will go a long way. It may be good to learn some basic Bulgarian even though it is not the easiest language.
Bureaucracy can be annoying and sometimes expensive
Paperwork for visas and residency permits can take time, so having a local consultant is almost a must. Even if you have a relative – reach out to them and ask them for support, otherwise it can be really challenging and also a money-consuming process.
Conclusion
For digital nomads considering the new Digital Nomad Visa in Bulgaria, the country provides an appealing combination of low taxes and a steadily growing entrepreneurial network. This visa makes it easier for freelancers and remote workers to enjoy Bulgaria’s affordable lifestyle, cultural richness, and safe living conditions, while having more time and resources to invest in both personal and professional growth.