Bulgaria has launched a new residence permit specifically for remote workers outside the European Union, providing a formal immigration pathway for digital nomads for the first time. Applications opened on December 20, 2025, marking a major step in Bulgaria’s efforts to attract international talent and tap into the growing global demand for flexible work arrangements, according to Business Today.Â
Who Can Apply
The permit targets three main groups of foreign nationals who work remotely for companies outside the EU, European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland:
- Employees of companies registered outside these regions who meet minimum salary requirements.
- Entrepreneurs or managers owning more than 25% of a company registered abroad, as long as they do not provide services to Bulgarian entities.
- Individuals who have worked remotely for at least one year prior to applying, do not serve Bulgarian clients, and are not freelancing in Bulgaria.
Each category requires specific documentation for application processing.
Duration and Application Process
The residence permit is valid for one year and can be extended for an additional year. Applicants must first submit a Visa D application from their home country or legal residence, which typically takes one to two months.Â
Upon approval, they can enter Bulgaria and provide further documentation, which takes two to four weeks. The final step involves obtaining an identification card, a process lasting between three and thirty calendar days.
Dependents may also be included under the permit through a family reunification procedure, allowing families to move together.
A Step Toward Remote Work-Friendly Policies
Bulgaria joins a growing number of countries offering specialized immigration options for digital nomads, recognizing the shift toward location-independent work. Previously, no formal pathway existed for remote workers, making this a significant policy change.
However, experts caution that working across borders still involves legal complexities. Noncompliance with immigration or labor regulations can carry penalties, including restrictions on hiring foreign talent. Both employers and employees need to understand and follow the rules in their destination country.
