Bulgaria’s Digital Nomad Visa: A New Route for Remote Workers

Private Clients Insights, Citizenship and Immigration

As of last Friday (27 June 2025), Bulgaria has officially introduced a new legal framework allowing digital nomads from third countries to reside in the country while working remotely. This long-anticipated move places Bulgaria among the growing number of countries offering a digital nomad visa, making it a serious contender for remote professionals seeking a dynamic yet affordable European base.

The development of this legislative framework was the result of extensive public-private collaboration. New Balkans Law Office was proud to support this effort, with partner Nevena Bekyarova and associate Ivan Petrov working closely with the Bulgarian Startup Association (BESCO) to help shape the proposal into a workable, future-facing legal solution. Their involvement reflects our firm’s broader commitment to innovation, regulatory development, and fostering Bulgaria’s position as a destination for global talent.

The option was introduced through recent legislative changes to the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act. While the law is now in force, the option will become available to applicants in three months, once secondary regulations come into effect. These implementing acts are expected to clarify application procedures, required documentation, and the administrative process.

Who Qualifies as a Digital Nomad in Bulgaria?

According to the new law, a digital nomad is a non-EU national who:

1. Is employed under a contract with a company established outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, providing remote services through information technologies. The remaining term of the contract must not be shorter than the intended duration of stay in Bulgaria
2. Is an owner, partner, shareholder (holding over 25 percent equity), or legal representative of a foreign company which offers remote IT-based services. The individual must not work for or offer services to clients on Bulgarian territory
3. Provides remote services as a self-employed individual using IT tools for at least one year prior to application and without serving clients or performing freelance activities in Bulgaria

Why Bulgaria Introduced the Digital Nomad Visa

The rise of digital nomadism globally, fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic, the rise of high-speed internet, cloud technology, and remote collaboration tools, has reshaped how and where people work. As flexible work becomes the norm, more countries are crafting policies to attract this highly mobile group of professionals.

The Bulgarian government introduced the Digital Nomad Visa for several key reasons 

1. To modernise and internationalise the Bulgarian economy by attracting high-income mobile professionals.
2. To stimulate the local economy by encouraging foreign spending on housing, food, services, and travel. 
3. To promote Bulgaria’s global image as a welcoming, open, and innovative European destination. 
4. To align with international trends, as many other countries already offer similar options for digital nomads.

With low living costs, a vibrant tech scene, excellent internet infrastructure, rich culture, and stunning nature, Bulgaria is uniquely positioned to attract digital nomads. Sofia, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, and Bansko are already on the radar of many remote workers.

Unlike tourist visas or rigid work permits, the digital nomad visa offers legal certainty and longer stays on top of providing greater flexibility for professionals and entrepreneurs. There is no need to contract with a Bulgarian employer and applicants gain access to EU-level infrastructure and services while residing in a more affordable jurisdiction.

Bulgaria Joins Global Leaders in Remote Work Policy

Bulgaria joins a growing list of global leaders offering tailored residency options for digital nomads including Estonia, with the pioneering Digital Nomad Visa introduced in 2020, Portugal with its D8 visa for remote workers, and Croatia which offers up to a 12-month permit for digital nomads.

These frameworks reflect a global trend. Forward-looking countries are using immigration law as a tool to attract talent, generate local economic activity, and build bridges with global markets.

Looking Ahead: Bulgaria as a Digital Nomad Hub

With the final application procedure expected to go live in three months, digital nomads in Bulgaria will soon have a fully legal, streamlined way to live and work from one of Europe’s most underrated destinations. The impact could be significant, bringing in talent, and investment from around the world.

This policy not only aligns with European and global trends but opens the door to long-term benefits for Bulgaria’s economy and society. With a clear legal path and proactive support, Bulgaria could emerge as a true hub for the next generation of mobile professionals.