A long-term residence type "D" visa is required for all prospective students who are citizens of non-EU and non-Schengen countries and are not exempt from visa requirements. Students admitted under Decree of Council of Ministers No. 103/1993 are exempt from applying for this visa. The visa can be issued for up to 6 months or 1 year, depending on the purpose of the stay in Bulgaria, such as pursuing a Bachelor's or postgraduate degree, conducting scientific research, or undertaking a student internship.
To obtain a long-term residence permit, applicants must provide evidence that:
Accommodation is arranged.
They have health insurance.
They possess sufficient funds to cover daily expenses, at least equivalent to the country's minimum wage for the period of residence.
They have no criminal convictions.
They have been accepted into an accredited Bulgarian university.
They have been approved by the Ministry of Education and Science of Bulgaria.
Overview
A long-term residence visa, valid for up to 6 months with the right to stay for up to 180 days, is issued to foreign nationals intending to settle in Bulgaria for an extended period or permanently (per Article 15, para. 1 of the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act).
A long-term residence visa valid for up to one year with the right to stay for up to 360 days may be issued to:
Foreigners conducting scientific research.
Students in study programs lasting up to one academic year.
Specialists or trainees.
Foreign nationals seconded by a foreign employer to oversee or coordinate a contract for tourist services.
Foreigners sent by a foreign employer to carry out investments certified under the Investment Promotion Act (per Article 15, para. 2 of the FRBA).
This visa allows multiple entries into Bulgaria during its validity period. It is canceled upon the issuance of a residence permit by the administrative control authorities for foreigners.
Application Process
Applications for a long-term residence visa must be submitted at the diplomatic and consular missions in the applicant's country of permanent residence or at missions accredited for the applicant's country. Personal interviews are mandatory without exceptions.
Required Documents
When applying for a long-term residence visa, applicants must submit:
Two completed visa application forms.
A valid foreign travel document free of errors.
Two copies of the travel document's pages containing personal data and any visas or residence permits.
Two recent passport-sized color photos.
Original documents and two copies substantiating the request for a long-term residence visa, including proof of financial means for subsistence and accommodation.
An insurance policy from a licensed insurance company within the EU, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros, covering repatriation, emergency medical assistance, and emergency hospital treatment for the entire period of residence.
Residence Permit Requirements
To obtain a long-term residence permit, applicants must have secured accommodation, mandatory health and social insurance, and sufficient funds to support themselves without relying on social assistance, in an amount not less than the minimum monthly salary or pension in Bulgaria. Upon the initial application for a residence permit, individuals aged 18 and over must present a criminal record certificate from their country of citizenship or habitual residence, except for stateless persons.
By meeting these requirements, applicants can successfully obtain a long-term residence permit in Bulgaria.
For more information, don't hesitate to contact our team.
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