For many Indians dreaming of a long-term base in Europe, opportunities to secure residency or citizenship often meant looking at countries like Portugal, Spain, or Greece. But now, a new door has opened—Bulgaria, which officially became part of the Schengen Area on January 1, 2025.
The country has already started gaining attention among global investors, thanks to its Golden Visa programme, launched in 2023. For Indian professionals, business families, and high-net-worth individuals, it combines flexibility, tax benefits, and a clear pathway to citizenship—all at a lower cost compared to many other EU residency schemes.
What is Bulgaria’s Golden Visa?
The Bulgaria Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment programme that allows non-EU nationals, including Indians, to obtain permanent residency from day one. Unlike other European residency schemes, you don’t have to start with temporary permits.
Here’s how it works:
- You must invest €512,000 (around ₹4.5 crore) into licensed Bulgarian investment funds.
- On approval, you and your family immediately get permanent residency (PR).
- After five years of holding your investment, you become eligible to apply for Bulgarian citizenship—giving you full EU rights.
Why Should Indians Consider Bulgaria’s Golden Visa?
For Indians who want a European base without giving up their ties back home, Bulgaria stands out for several reasons:
✅ Direct Permanent Residency – No waiting periods or temporary permits.
✅ Family Inclusion – Your spouse, children, parents, and even in-laws can be added to a single application.
✅ No Stay Requirement – Keep living in India while enjoying full Bulgarian PR benefits.
✅ Schengen Access – Visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone (currently 116 countries).
✅ Low Taxes – Flat 10% personal income tax, one of the lowest rates in the EU.
✅ Fast Processing – Applications are typically approved within 3–6 months.
In short, Bulgaria offers a cost-effective alternative to more expensive programmes in Portugal or Spain.
Who Can Apply from India?
To qualify, you need to meet some basic requirements:
- Be 18 years or older
- Hold a valid Indian passport
- Have a clean criminal record
- Show proof of legal funds and income above the investment amount
- Invest €512,000 in Bulgarian funds
- Pay the official government application and processing fees
Once approved, your family members can be included under the same visa application.
Investment Options: Where Does the Money Go?
Applicants can choose between two investment structures:
- Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs)
- Safer option, professionally managed funds that invest across multiple Bulgarian assets.
- Ideal for investors who want stability and moderate returns.
- Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)
- Traded on the Bulgarian Stock Exchange, offering higher liquidity.
- Easier to sell, but subject to market fluctuations.
⚠️ Note: You cannot mix both AIF and ETF. You must choose one investment route.
Application Process for Indians
Applying for Bulgaria’s Golden Visa is a straightforward step-by-step process:
- Pre-approval check – Background verification, proof of funds, and compliance with AML (Anti-Money Laundering) rules.
- Make the investment – Transfer €512,000 into your chosen licensed fund (AIF or ETF).
- Apply for a D-type visa – Submit your application at the Bulgarian Embassy in India.
- Travel to Bulgaria – Provide biometric data and collect your PR card.
Your Bulgarian Permanent Residence Card is indefinite but must be renewed every five years. After five years, if you maintain the investment, you can apply for Bulgarian citizenship.
Documents Required for Indian Applicants
You will need to submit:
- Valid Indian passport
- Police Clearance Certificate from India (and any other country you’ve lived in)
- Proof of funds and income
- Marriage certificate / Birth certificates (for dependants)
- Passport-sized photographs
- CV and financial documentation
- Investment certificate from the Bulgarian fund
Bulgaria vs Other EU Residency Programmes
While €512,000 (₹4.5 crore) is still a significant investment, Bulgaria stands out with:
- Direct PR from day one (vs temporary residence in Portugal or Greece)
- Family-friendly inclusion (covers parents and in-laws too)
- No minimum stay requirement (rare among EU countries)
- Flat 10% tax (major benefit for Indian entrepreneurs)
- Fast-track to citizenship in 5 years
For Indians who want the prestige and convenience of an EU passport while keeping India as their base, Bulgaria’s Golden Visa is one of the most practical and affordable routes to Europe today.
Final Thoughts
The Bulgaria Golden Visa for Indians is more than just a residency programme—it’s a gateway to the European lifestyle, borderless travel, and business opportunities across the EU.
With immediate PR, family benefits, no physical stay requirements, and one of Europe’s lowest tax rates, Bulgaria offers a compelling value proposition for Indian professionals, global entrepreneurs, and investors alike.
If Europe is part of your long-term vision, Bulgaria just might be the smartest place to start your European journey.
