Through its digital nomad visa program, Bulgaria has opened itself to workers who aren’t European Union residents but still want to enjoy long-term access.

A site dedicated to the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) notes that Bulgaria opened its digital nomad visa applications in late December 2025. The new program reportedly aims to appeal to working foreigners who can contribute to Bulgaria’s economy without integrating into the country’s job market.

The application process has several steps and reportedly can extend for months. Applicants will first apply for a Type D visa. Upon approval and moving to Bulgaria, they’ll later apply for a residence permit. Moreover, they’ll also need to obtain an identity card.

Eligible parties are issued a one-year stay in Bulgaria under its digital nomad visa program. That said, the visa can be extended for another year, offering up to a two-year stint. Family members can later join approved digital nomad visa applicants in Bulgaria, but they’ll also have to be eligible and submit documentation.

To be considered for approval, applicants will need to provide their criminal record, proof of health insurance, and the address where they’ll be staying in Bulgaria. The person needs to be employed and bring in income from a source (a company, client, etc.) that is “registered outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland.” Eligible persons will either be remote workers, business executives with at least a 25% stake in a foreign company, or freelancers who’ve been working with at least one foreign client for a minimum of a year. Additionally, applicants must prove that, in the prior year, they earned at least “50 times Bulgaria’s monthly minimum wage.” As of this reporting, that would be around $36,000.

What Else Is There To Know About Bulgaria’s Digital Nomad Visa Program?

As of now, Bulgaria’s digital nomad visa doesn’t offer a pathway to citizenship.

If the digital nomad stays in Bulgaria over 183 days, the country may subject them to a 10% tax on their international income.

Bulgaria is one of Europe’s oldest countries, and now, it may be the perfect choice for foreigners seeking an affordable, long-term stay within the EU. Its digital nomad visa requirements are easier to meet than in many popular digital nomad hotspots in Europe. Also, Bulgaria offers a lower cost of living than other options like Portugal or Spain.

For eager explorers, the country has a longstanding, history-filled wine scene and dazzling beaches along the Black Sea. Furthermore, the country is a gateway to the broader Balkan Peninsula, as it borders Romania, Turkey, Greece, Serbia, and North Macedonia.

This month, Bulgaria’s population of around 6.4 million adopted the euro as its currency, leaving behind the lev.

For those still on the fence, Slovenia has a lower income requirement for digital nomad visa applicants, and it just launched its program last year.