The rise of remote work has led countries worldwide to introduce digital nomad visas, which allow freelancers and remote workers to live and work abroad. While Bulgaria does not yet offer a formal digital nomad visa, there are various alternatives that make this beautiful country a prime destination for digital nomads. From affordable living to stunning landscapes, here’s what you need to know if you’re considering relocating to Bulgaria as a remote worker or freelancer.
1. Is There a Digital Nomad Visa in Bulgaria?
As of 2024, Bulgaria does not have an official digital nomad visa. However, Bulgaria is still highly attractive to digital nomads, thanks to its low cost of living, vibrant nomad communities, and various visa alternatives. Cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Bansko are rapidly becoming popular hubs for remote workers, even without a specific visa. Bansko, known for its mountainous beauty and thriving coworking spaces like Nestwork Premium Coworking, is a particularly exciting destination.
2. Alternatives to a Digital Nomad Visa in Bulgaria
If you’re not from the EU and want to work remotely in Bulgaria, there are several visa options available to you. These alternatives to the digital nomad visa in Bulgaria include:
Tourist Visa (Type C): This allows non-EU citizens to stay for up to 90 days within a six-month period.
D Visa (Long-Term Residency): Ideal for those planning to stay longer, this visa grants a stay of six to twelve months and is the closest alternative to a digital nomad visa.
Freelance Visa: Specifically designed for freelancers, this visa lets non-EU freelancers reside and work in Bulgaria. More on this below!
3. EU Citizens: No Visa Needed
If you’re an EU citizen, you’re in luck! You don’t need a visa to work remotely from Bulgaria. You can move freely within the EU and enjoy all the benefits that Bulgaria has to offer. This is a significant advantage, particularly for those who want to avoid visa paperwork.
4. Applying for a Type D Visa in Bulgaria
The Type D visa is a popular option for non-EU citizens looking to stay in Bulgaria for extended periods. You’ll need essential documents like a valid passport, proof of health insurance, and evidence of financial means to support yourself. The Type D visa allows you to apply for residency, making it a fantastic alternative to the elusive digital nomad visa in Bulgaria.
5. Freelance Visa: An Attractive Option for Remote Workers
For non-EU freelancers, the Bulgarian freelance visa is a viable option. Introduced in 2017, this visa lets freelancers stay and work in Bulgaria for one year, with the possibility of renewal. The visa requires a business plan, proof of professional experience, and a bank statement showing sufficient funds. It’s an ideal choice for freelancers who are looking for a digital nomad visa in Bulgaria alternative.
6. Documentation for a Freelance Visa in Bulgaria
Here’s what you’ll need to apply for a freelance visa in Bulgaria:
• A business plan outlining your freelance activities.
• Evidence of at least two years of experience in your field.
• A bank statement showing that you can support yourself during your stay.
• Two recent passport photos.
• Any additional documents specific to your profession.
Once your freelance visa is approved, you can apply for a Type D residence permit, allowing you to extend your stay for up to a year.
7. The Cost of a Freelance Visa in Bulgaria
The fee for a freelance visa in Bulgaria is approximately 200 euros. After submitting your application, expect the National Employment Agency to take about 30 working days to process it. Once approved, you’re all set to live and work in Bulgaria as a freelancer, with the option to renew after one year.
8. Collaboration with Native Teams
At Nestwork Coworking, we have partnered with Native Teams to make your transition to remote work in Bulgaria even smoother. Native Teams provides global payroll solutions, local employment contracts, and tax management services for freelancers and remote workers. Their Employer of Record (EOR) service ensures compliance with Bulgarian tax laws and local employment regulations, which is a fantastic perk for those seeking to establish themselves as digital nomads or freelancers in Bulgaria.
With Native Teams, you can streamline your client invoicing, manage multi-currency wallets, and even receive visa assistance, all while focusing on your work. As a member of Nestwork Coworking, you’ll also receive an exclusive 10% discount on Native Teams services, making it easier than ever to settle into your new life in Bulgaria.
9. Benefits of Moving to Bulgaria as a Digital Nomad
Here are just a few reasons why Bulgaria is a fantastic destination for digital nomads:
Affordable Living: Bulgaria boasts one of the lowest costs of living in Europe, with an average monthly expense of around 750 EUR. This makes it an attractive option for freelancers and remote workers.
Beautiful Landscapes: Whether it’s the beaches along the Black Sea coast or the mountains of Bansko, Bulgaria offers plenty of natural beauty to explore.
Thriving Digital Nomad Communities: Cities like Sofia and Bansko have thriving digital nomad communities, complete with coworking spaces like Nestwork Coworking.
10. Why Bansko Is Perfect for Digital Nomads
Bansko is quickly emerging as one of the top destinations for digital nomads in Bulgaria. Nestled in the Pirin Mountains, Bansko offers affordable housing, a lively coworking scene, and countless outdoor activities like skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. Our coworking space, Nestwork Coworking, is designed to provide digital nomads with high-speed internet, comfortable workspaces, and access to a vibrant community of remote workers.
Conclusion
While Bulgaria may not yet have an official digital nomad visa, there are plenty of ways to live and work remotely in this beautiful country. Whether you choose a freelance visa, Type D visa, or another option, Bulgaria offers the perfect blend of affordability, natural beauty, and welcoming communities. With the help of Native Teams and Nestwork Coworking, you can make your dream of living and working remotely in Bulgaria a reality. Take advantage of our exclusive 10% discount on Native Teams services and start your Bulgarian adventure today!
