Bulgaria has introduced one of Europe’s most accessible and affordable digital nomad visas, offering remote workers the chance to live and work in the country for up to two years.
The scheme positions Bulgaria as a compelling EU base for freelancers, remote employees and entrepreneurs seeking long‑term residency in a destination known for its low cost of living and diverse landscapes.
The visa is designed for digital nomads who want to base themselves in an EU member state while working remotely for companies or clients abroad. Bulgaria is highlighted as “one of Europe’s most underrated travel destinations,” celebrated for its Black Sea beaches, mountain villages and affordability compared with neighbouring Greece and Turkey. This combination of value and lifestyle makes the new visa particularly attractive for long‑stay travellers.
However, despite the programme being publicly introduced, Bulgarian authorities have not yet announced an official start date for when applications will open. No embassy, ministry or government department has published a formal activation timeline, meaning remote workers will need to wait for the Ministry of Interior and Migration Directorate to issue the final regulations before applying.
Once active, the visa will allow eligible digital nomads to reside in Bulgaria for up to 24 months, one of the longest initial durations offered by any EU digital nomad scheme. Applicants will need to provide proof of remote income, health insurance and accommodation, with full eligibility criteria expected to be released alongside the official launch.
For remote workers, Bulgaria offers strong appeal: excellent internet connectivity, a growing nomad community in cities like Sofia and Plovdiv, and easy access to both the Black Sea coast and the Balkan mountains. The country consistently ranks among Europe’s most affordable destinations, making it ideal for digital nomads seeking to reduce expenses while maintaining a high quality of life.
The introduction of the visa comes as more travellers seek flexible, long‑term options for living abroad. Bulgaria’s scheme stands out for its combination of low cost, long duration and varied lifestyle options and once the government confirms the start date, it is expected to become one of the most competitive digital nomad visas in Europe.
