България отваря врати за „дигиталните номади“

New law changes residency rules

In response to global trends in the working environment and the desire to modernize national legislation, the Republic of Bulgaria is introducing significant changes to the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act. Published in the State Gazette, issue 52 of 2025, тези актуализации включват изцяло ново основание за продължително пребиваване за дигитални номади. Тази стъпка позиционира България като атрактивна дестинация за отдалечени работещи, предлагайки им ясна и правно регламентирана рамка за живот и работа в страната.

What does the term "digital nomad" mean?

According to the §1, item 36 of the Supplementary Provisions of the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act, a "digital nomad" is a foreigner who falls into one of the following categories:

Employee of a foreign employer: A foreigner who is employed under an employment contract by an employer registered or established outside a Member State of the European Union, the European Economic Area, or the Swiss Confederation. An important condition is that this employee must provide remote services using information technology. If the employment contract is concluded for a fixed term, the remaining term of the contract must not be less than the term of the long-term residence permit.
Owner or manager of a foreign company: A person who is a legal representative, member of a management body, owner, partner, or shareholder holding more than 25 percent of the capital of a company registered or established outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland. Through this company, they must provide remote services using information technology and must not perform work and/or provide services to persons on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria.
Freelancer providing remote services: A foreigner who provides remote services in a personal capacity using information technology for a period of not less than one year prior to the date of application, and who also does not perform work and/or provide services to persons on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria and/or does not perform freelance activities on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria.

This broad definition covers a wide range of professionals—from IT specialists and software developers to designers, consultants, and other experts whose activities do not require physical presence and generate income from sources outside Bulgaria.

What are the advantages of the new status?

The introduction of this special visa and residence permit is a big plus for Bulgaria, as it:

Attracts highly qualified professionals: Digital nomads are often highly qualified and experienced people who can contribute to the country's economy and innovation.
It increases local revenue: Although they work for foreign companies, digital nomads spend their money locally—on rent, food, services, and tourism—which stimulates the economy.
Diversifies local culture: The influx of people from different countries contributes to cultural diversity and the exchange of ideas.
Modernizes Bulgaria's image: This legislative change shows that Bulgaria is modern and open to new forms of work.

Applying

To obtain a long-term residence permit as a digital nomad, you will need to submit an application to the Migration Directorate or the relevant departments of the Ministry of Interior. Standard documents must be attached to the application.

Foreign citizens usually have to provide documents proving that they have secured accommodation, medical insurance, and sufficient means of support. These funds must not be less than the minimum monthly wage, minimum scholarship, or minimum pension under Bulgarian law for the entire period of stay, in order to avoid dependence on the social assistance system. However, there is a flexible alternative for those who cannot provide all of the above documents. The foreigner may prove that they have an average annual income that is not less than 50 minimum monthly wages under Bulgarian law for the previous calendar year. For the purposes of determining the amount of income, the gross amount of all income earned is taken into account.

Duration of stay

The permit is valid for one year and may be extended once for another year. It is important to note that if the permit expires while the extension procedure is ongoing, the foreigner has the right to continue their stay in the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, provided that the application was submitted within the period of validity of the initial permit.

Conclusion

The introduction of the long-term residence permit for digital nomads is an important step for Bulgaria, placing it among the countries adapting to modern forms of work. This change will not only attract new talent and investment but will also contribute to the development of the country's economy and culture.

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