Living in Bulgaria: A Quick Guide for U.S. Expats

Getting a Visa

• To be considered for a residency permit, you need to apply for a Type D visa first.
• To qualify for a long-term visa, you need to satisfy at least one of the following conditions:
• An offer of employment from a Bulgarian company
• Ownership of a Bulgarian business that employs at least 10 nationals
• Enrollment in a Bulgarian university as a full-time student
• Desire to retire in Bulgaria and have enough funds to support yourself

Getting Around

• The major cities have public transit options such as buses, trams, and metros.
• Taxicabs and walking are also popular options.
• If you live outside the center or travel frequently, consider buying a car.

Cost of Living

• The cost of living is very low, making it possible to maintain a comfortable lifestyle without worrying too much about finances.
• A four-person family can expect to spend around $2,015 per month without rent.
• A one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from $372 to $620 per month.
• Basic utilities cost approximately $200 per month.
• A high-speed internet connection costs no more than $19 per month.
• A week's worth of groceries costs around $60.

Where Do U.S. Expats Live?

• The expat scene in Bulgaria is dominated by Europeans, but there is also a tight-knit American expat community.
• The main areas are Sofia, Bansko, and Varna.

Sofia

• Sofia is the capital and largest city, ideal for business travelers, remote workers, and freelancers.
• The city is the center of commerce and home to the country's top museums and universities.

Bansko

• A ski resort town at the foot of the Pirin Mountains, known for its mountain peaks, ski slopes, and old-growth pine forests.
• Pleasant for those seeking a mountain lifestyle and laid-back setting.
• Home to the American University in Bulgaria.

Varna

• A coastal city on the Bulgarian Riviera, known for its beach lifestyle.
• A major economic, cultural, and social center with a hub for healthcare, education, and business.
• The American High School of Bulgaria is located here.

Working in Bulgaria

• The low cost of living and growing start-up scene attract many Americans to work in Bulgaria.
• Some work for multinational or local companies, while others have started their own businesses.
• A growing community of expat freelancers and remote workers is also present.

Retire in Bulgaria

• Bulgaria has become a top destination for retirees due to its low taxes, cost of living, and crime rate.
• Sofia is the cheapest European capital for buying and renting real estate.
• To retire in Bulgaria, you need to apply for a Type D visa and a long-term residence permit, renewable every year.
• After 5 years, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.

Your Tax Obligations

• If you live and work in Bulgaria, you are considered a resident for tax purposes.
• You need to pay a 10% tax on your worldwide income.
• The U.S. federal tax code requires American citizens and permanent citizens earning a minimum of $12,400 (or $400 for self-employed individuals) to file a federal tax return every year, even if you live and work in Bulgaria.
• The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) taxes your worldwide income.