Long-stay visas (Type D)
Bulgarian Self-Funded and Pensioner Residence Permit
A long-stay route for financially independent people, including retirees, who can support themselves in Bulgaria without needing to work.
Important information
- Issued by
- Migration Directorate, MVR (residence permit); consulate issues the type 'D' visa
- Who it's for
- Financially independent people, including pensioners/retirees
- Core test
- Stable, sufficient means of support for the whole stay
- Also required
- Health insurance and accommodation in Bulgaria
- Duration
- Usually 1 year, renewable; counts toward long-term/permanent residence
Who it's for
- Retirees living on a pension who want to reside in Bulgaria
- Financially independent people with savings or passive income who do not need to work
- Non-EU nationals seeking EU/Schengen residence without employment
Requirements
- Proof of stable, sufficient regular income or funds (e.g. pension, savings, passive income)
- Health insurance valid in Bulgaria
- Proof of accommodation in Bulgaria
- Valid passport and type 'D' visa
- Clean criminal record certificate
What you can do
- Reside in Bulgaria long term without taking employment
- Renew the permit annually while you continue to meet the conditions
- Travel within the Schengen area for short stays as a Bulgarian resident
- Progress toward EU long-term or permanent residence over five years
How to apply
Gather evidence of your income/funds, health insurance and accommodation.
Apply for a type 'D' long-stay visa at the competent Bulgarian consulate on the self-funded/pensioner ground.
After arrival, apply in person at the regional Migration Directorate for the continuous residence permit and renew it before expiry.
Documents
- Valid passport with type 'D' visa
- Proof of pension, savings or other sufficient regular income
- Health insurance valid in Bulgaria
- Proof of accommodation
- Criminal record certificate and completed application forms
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The insured, self-funded residence category expressly covers pensioners who can show a sufficient stable income and hold health insurance and accommodation.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
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