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GinnyHench

GinnyHench

Active member

American looking for information about Bulgaria

Forum posts

79

Contacts

21

About me

American

Lives in Sofia, Sofia-Capital

Speaks American English (native speaker), fairly good French and Italian, and am starting to learn Bulgarian

Registration: 19 September 2018

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
2 years ago
chchristov

Criminal background check for VISA D by chchristov

Has anyone done the criminal background check for the visa D? We're looking to do this for a Canadian citizen. Do you need the fingerprints when doing the criminal background check from abroad or did you just do the basic criminal background ...

GinnyHench

@Marharyta Unless they've changed it recently, it's good for 6 months. I believe (but don't know for sure) that the fingerprints and name are run through the FBI's computerized records, to see whether there is anything to report. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
2 years ago
grumpyoldbird

Income streams for D Visa by grumpyoldbird

I know there are lots of threads about the requirements for a D Visa, but I cant find anything that answers my query, so I'm hoping maybe someone knows the answer. Would income from one rental property in the UK and another one in France, be ...

GinnyHench

@grumpyoldbird according to my immigration lawyer, proof of income (apart from pensions) is not accepted for purposes of issuing the D visa for Bulgaria. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
2 years ago
TonyFF

question about Apostille by TonyFF

Hello all, I got FBI clearance with Apostille that is needed for my application for long-term residence.It is supposed to be translated. But does it need to be legalized or the translation service is enough?thanks a lot

GinnyHench

My experience was this:  get all necessary documents,  including FBI background check.  Get all U.S.  documents apostilled. Next, send them to my lawyer in Sofia, who is also a  certified translator,  recognized by ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
2 years ago
GuestPoster347

Moving to Bulgaria - questions by GuestPoster347

Hello, I am planning to move to Bulgaria next year and have a few questions.The initial visa that I must get is a D type visa.It's requirements are stated, but iam not clear on some aspects of it.For a retired persons visa:1) At what point do I need ...

GinnyHench

@D H16 Hi - I don't know how much the pension currently needs to be -- if one pension is more than the required amount, then I would think it's ok just to submit that one. When I applied, each of my pensions exceeded the minimum, which is why I was ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
2 years ago
jetmon135

Visiting Bulgaria Oct 5-19 by jetmon135

Hi,My name is Alex in Oregon, USA. I searching for other U.S. expats that may point me in the right direction as far as the documents I need to bring with me to Sofia Bulgaria for initially applying for a 1 year residency permit. I’m not sure ...

GinnyHench

@jetmon135 Hi - The LA Consulate is actually in Santa Monica. I had to go there from Honolulu for my interview. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
2 years ago
D H16

Moving to Sofia by D H16

Hello, I plan on moving to Sofia next year from the US. I have a $1600 pension and a large savings to last until I am 60, which is when my pension will triple. I just want to know the basics, what is important to know and if can I live off that $ ...

GinnyHench

If you live modestly, as you say, you can manage on your current pension -- I'm reading your message to say that you are currently receiving it, right? There is a retiree visa available in Bulgaria , but as far as I am aware, Bulgaria doesn't grant ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
3 years ago
johnnyb82

D visa for pensioners background check question by johnnyb82

Hello all,I am a US citizen who is considering moving to Bulgaria as a pensioner. I have been living in another EU state for the last 3 years, but the cost of living has risen significantly since I moved here and I am looking for better options. I ...

GinnyHench

Hi - the background check is done by the FBI - you can apply online, but you have to send them physical copies of your fingerprints. I would be surprised if any traffic offenses showed up in the FBI records. If you go to the FBI website you can ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
3 years ago
maseehadsa47

visa applications to Bulgaria from South Africa by maseehadsa47

Hi Could anyone kindly post the web page for visa applicantions to Bulgaria from South Africa please.Best RegardsM. Dsa

GinnyHench

@gwynj That is how it worked for me. I had to submit all of my notarized, apostilled, translated documents (plus fee and application form.) After I submitted those documents, I was advised by my attorney to phone for an appointment, which I did. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
3 years ago
remurphytx

Fingerprints in Bulgaria by remurphytx

In case any US citizen wants to be fingerprinted in Bulgaria to initiate the FBI Criminal Records report without going back to the US, here is what to do: 1. Learn Bulgarian language 2. The US Embassy said local police departments will take ...

GinnyHench

It's correct, as someone said above, that the FBI itself does not require the fingerprints to be apostilled or otherwise certified, as long as they are clear and in the proper format. However, the resulting FBI document (the criminal background ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
3 years ago
chchristov

Criminal background check for VISA D by chchristov

Has anyone done the criminal background check for the visa D? We're looking to do this for a Canadian citizen. Do you need the fingerprints when doing the criminal background check from abroad or did you just do the basic criminal background ...

GinnyHench

You're very welcome. Good luck - Ginny Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
3 years ago
chchristov

Criminal background check for VISA D by chchristov

Has anyone done the criminal background check for the visa D? We're looking to do this for a Canadian citizen. Do you need the fingerprints when doing the criminal background check from abroad or did you just do the basic criminal background ...

GinnyHench

I see that I have an editing error in one sentence: It should read: "I flew to Los Angeles for my scheduled appointment and a couple of weeks after the interview I was notified that my visa was granted, so then . . . " Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
3 years ago
chchristov

Criminal background check for VISA D by chchristov

Has anyone done the criminal background check for the visa D? We're looking to do this for a Canadian citizen. Do you need the fingerprints when doing the criminal background check from abroad or did you just do the basic criminal background ...

GinnyHench

@dcw121165 Hi - Here's what I did: I did the application on the FBI website, where you can do everything BUT the fingerprints. There were clear directions - there undoubtedly still are. That application remains incomplete until they receive your ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
3 years ago
charlian99

D visa application process by charlian99

Hi everybody, my name is Ian, a retired 73 year old Geordie living in Newcastle, married to a Bulgarian lady and planning to emigrate to Shvistov next March. Am finding the D visa application process a bit confusing and hoping to benefit from your ...

GinnyHench

@Vasilev I agree -- the retiree visa D is quite straightforward. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
3 years ago
GuestPoster347

Moving to Bulgaria - questions by GuestPoster347

Hello, I am planning to move to Bulgaria next year and have a few questions.The initial visa that I must get is a D type visa.It's requirements are stated, but iam not clear on some aspects of it.For a retired persons visa:1) At what point do I need ...

GinnyHench

In my case (U.S.) the apostille for my state pension had to be done by my state Attorney General's office: First, I had to have the document notarized in the usual manner. Then, the notarized document had to be submitted with the proper request ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
3 years ago
GuestPoster347

Moving to Bulgaria - questions by GuestPoster347

Hello, I am planning to move to Bulgaria next year and have a few questions.The initial visa that I must get is a D type visa.It's requirements are stated, but iam not clear on some aspects of it.For a retired persons visa:1) At what point do I need ...

GinnyHench

I am not an expert by any means, but I did apply for and receive a "D" visa based on retiree status. I'm a U.S. citizen, retired. I submitted proof of my two pensions (one from my home state employment, one from the federal government). I was ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
4 years ago
Julien

New members of the Bulgaria forum, introduce yourselves here - 2022 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Bulgaria forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...

GinnyHench

@jtorren Hi - Welcome. I'm in Sofia, but I'm retired and don't have kids, so my situation is a bit different.  Since you're interested in Sofia, I'm happy to give whatever information I have, but I probably won't be able to address a lot ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
4 years ago
GuestPoster221

Help with visa D by GuestPoster221

Could someone please recommend a solicitor to help us with our visa D.

GinnyHench

Zachary Tsvetkov is excellent. You can find his web page by googling his name. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
4 years ago
Julien

New members of the Bulgaria forum, introduce yourselves here - 2021 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Bulgaria forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...

GinnyHench

Yes, there are many options for becoming a resident. The original post mentioned applying for -citizenship- which is not the same as residence. For most applicants, it is not possible to go straight to citizenship. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
4 years ago
Julien

New members of the Bulgaria forum, introduce yourselves here - 2021 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Bulgaria forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...

GinnyHench

Unless you were born in Bulgaria or are married to a Bulgarian or have close blood relatives here, it is unlikely that you can go straight to applying for citizenship. That shouldn't stop you from moving forward with your plans to move here and ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
4 years ago
Diksha

What are you missing in Bulgaria? by Diksha

Hi everyone, Living in Bulgaria, on the long or short run, it is completely normal to feel homesick sometimes. We would like to know what you are missing the most about your home country in Bulgaria. Do you miss any aspects of your home ...

GinnyHench

nothing Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
4 years ago
gwynj

D Visa Guidance by gwynj

[b]INTRODUCTION[/b] I have posted much of this information in reply to several forum posts, but I think it might be helpful to have it one place. Following Brexit (and the end of the Transition period i.e. from 1/1/21), British citizens now need ...

GinnyHench

I was required to have a Bulgarian bank account in addition to proving the amount of my pension when I applied for my D visa. I also had to have a Bulgarian bank account to apply for and renew my residency permit. I would check with an immigration ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
4 years ago
gwynj

D Visa Guidance by gwynj

[b]INTRODUCTION[/b] I have posted much of this information in reply to several forum posts, but I think it might be helpful to have it one place. Following Brexit (and the end of the Transition period i.e. from 1/1/21), British citizens now need ...

GinnyHench

Yes to both questions. I don't recall the exact amount, but the bank account must be at least the equivalent of six months of minimum wages. The pension must exceed a certain amount, but I don't recall the number. Per my immigration lawyer, ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
chchristov

Criminal background check for VISA D by chchristov

Has anyone done the criminal background check for the visa D? We're looking to do this for a Canadian citizen. Do you need the fingerprints when doing the criminal background check from abroad or did you just do the basic criminal background ...

GinnyHench

Hi again. I applied for my visa "D" in 2018. I am retired, and applied for the retiree visa, but I think the over-all process is the same for other types of "D" visas - On a visit to Bulgaria, I opened a bank account, and hired a ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
chchristov

Criminal background check for VISA D by chchristov

Has anyone done the criminal background check for the visa D? We're looking to do this for a Canadian citizen. Do you need the fingerprints when doing the criminal background check from abroad or did you just do the basic criminal background ...

GinnyHench

I'm a U.S. citizen, not Canadian, but I'd be happy to share my experience if it would be helpful. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
gwynj

D Visa Guidance by gwynj

[b]INTRODUCTION[/b] I have posted much of this information in reply to several forum posts, but I think it might be helpful to have it one place. Following Brexit (and the end of the Transition period i.e. from 1/1/21), British citizens now need ...

GinnyHench

The U.K. is not part of the E.U., so you are correct that a Visa "D" is required. It is also true that the visa "D" must be applied for in one's home country. The different categories and the requirements for each can be ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
Neo-uk1

Transport help by Neo-uk1

Hi erveyone. I'm in need of a bit of help. I have some belongings being brought back from Bulgaria to the UK and the courier has asked me for a EROI number ?? Has anyone heard of this before. I went online and I think it's more for companies ...

GinnyHench

You are correct. Even private individuals who are retired, and have no association with any business must have the EORI to receive a package from customs. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
Munchkin120268

Residency in Bulgaria by Munchkin120268

Would anyone be able to tell me how long we can stay for in the house that my wife and I purchased as we are currently in the UK and planning to move permanently when we retire in 5 years - Martin

GinnyHench

Hi - You're very welcome. As for applying at the Bulgarian Embassy in London, that's the same (in principle, but obviously not in geography) as what I did. I see my post wasn't clear on this point. All non-EU applicants have to apply ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
Munchkin120268

Residency in Bulgaria by Munchkin120268

Would anyone be able to tell me how long we can stay for in the house that my wife and I purchased as we are currently in the UK and planning to move permanently when we retire in 5 years - Martin

GinnyHench

This is what I had to do -- I don't think the requirements have changed, but I don't know for sure. First, the "D" visa must be applied for in your home country. You should look online at the different categories, because there ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
Munchkin120268

Residency in Bulgaria by Munchkin120268

Would anyone be able to tell me how long we can stay for in the house that my wife and I purchased as we are currently in the UK and planning to move permanently when we retire in 5 years - Martin

GinnyHench

I obtained a D visa from a non-EU country (US). I now have residency. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
Munchkin120268

Residency in Bulgaria by Munchkin120268

Would anyone be able to tell me how long we can stay for in the house that my wife and I purchased as we are currently in the UK and planning to move permanently when we retire in 5 years - Martin

GinnyHench

That was my guess, also, but this is a forum for people from many different countries. When asking for help or advice, it might be helpful for a poster to mention the relevant nationality so that people wanting to help or offer suggestions ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
Munchkin120268

Residency in Bulgaria by Munchkin120268

Would anyone be able to tell me how long we can stay for in the house that my wife and I purchased as we are currently in the UK and planning to move permanently when we retire in 5 years - Martin

GinnyHench

Hi - if I missed something, HelenDinBg, apologies, but are you talking about a UK citizen, or some other country? UK citizens already living in Bulgaria have different rules than citizens of the US, or Canada, or other countries. I didn't seen ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
marg2404

Looking for a lawyer by marg2404

Hi, My partner and I am about to move to Bulgaria in a few months. We are looking for legal advice mainly in taxes expertise before we move. Could someone please recommend lawyer from Bulgaria who speaks English? Greetings!

GinnyHench

I have an excellent immigration lawyer in Sofia. He speaks excellent English and has done work for me and other people I know. If you would like his information, please send a message. Unfortunately, it is not possible to post specific information ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
joaope99

Insurance - which is best? by joaope99

Hello everyone, this is my first time posting onto the forum. I will be living in Veliko Tarnovo permanently and wanted to know what was the best health insurance to have? I have tried Allinaz, but their insurance cover is temporary, how long does ...

GinnyHench

I notice that a lot of the private insurance companies apparently do not issue policies for persons (non-EU) over 64. Is anyone aware of "upgraded" health insurance (not the basic mandatory insurance) being offered? Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
5 years ago
10452

Advice on Medical Insurance in Bulgaria by 10452

Hello! I have searched a lot for a medical insurance in Bulgaria for my family and myself but to no avail. The only result I always found for foreigners was: the obligatory insurance for foreigners applying for visas or residence permit. I need a ...

GinnyHench

Hello - Thanks for the links -- The Uniqa link was to a site that is only in Bulgarian. I'm not yet fluent enough to read it. Does anyone have a link to a page for Uniqa in English? There did not seem to be an option on the page to switch to ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago
Jenfy

Quarantine in Bulgaria by Jenfy

Hi all I am looking for advice. I am UK citizen currently in UK and have a home in Bulgaria which I have sold. I have to be in Bulgaria to complete the sale first 2 weeks of August. If the 14 day quarantine in Bulgaria is not lifted would I be able ...

GinnyHench

Best of luck. I'm sorry I don't have any more suggestions to offer. Maybe someone on this site will come up with some ideas. Good luck! :) Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago
Jenfy

Quarantine in Bulgaria by Jenfy

Hi all I am looking for advice. I am UK citizen currently in UK and have a home in Bulgaria which I have sold. I have to be in Bulgaria to complete the sale first 2 weeks of August. If the 14 day quarantine in Bulgaria is not lifted would I be able ...

GinnyHench

Depending on where your place is in Bulgaria, there are grocery delivery services. Probably just in the cities, but you could check. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago
Andykinsgb

Possible move to Bulgaria by Andykinsgb

Hello, advice needed. Once this pandemic is under control I'll be looking to relocate from the UK possibly to Bulgaria. Housing appears to be far cheaper than the UK, how about employment general living expenses. What would be the best area to ...

GinnyHench

I'm from the US, not the UK, but I moved here about a year ago. I'm retired, so I can't advise on employment, but housing is definitely less than in the US, and I believe it's also less than in the UK. I'm in Sofia and like it a ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago
DrDuane

BG tax payment by DrDuane

I read on FB BG that if you have a pension and are an expat, that you can file documents that nullifies your BG tax payment. Is this correct?

GinnyHench

I've been told that pensions are not taxable here in Bulgaria. Anyone know for sure? TIA - Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago
Johnkwt

Join health system by Johnkwt

Hi to all I have lived in sofia for 6 months. I am a UK national but have not lived there for many years so not paid national insurance etc. I have Bulgarian residence permit. I now wish to join the Bulgarian health system. Does anyone have ...

GinnyHench

Thanks - I'll look into that. I appreciate the information. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago
Johnkwt

Join health system by Johnkwt

Hi to all I have lived in sofia for 6 months. I am a UK national but have not lived there for many years so not paid national insurance etc. I have Bulgarian residence permit. I now wish to join the Bulgarian health system. Does anyone have ...

GinnyHench

OK, Thanks - so far I am just paying as I go, and it's not bad, but if anyone else knows about non-EU retirees, I'd love to hear from them. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago
Johnkwt

Join health system by Johnkwt

Hi to all I have lived in sofia for 6 months. I am a UK national but have not lived there for many years so not paid national insurance etc. I have Bulgarian residence permit. I now wish to join the Bulgarian health system. Does anyone have ...

GinnyHench

Hi Ian - that's helpful, thanks! What about retirees? Is it possible to get on the health system? I'm in Sofia, and have my residency permit. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago
DrDuane

BG tax payment by DrDuane

I read on FB BG that if you have a pension and are an expat, that you can file documents that nullifies your BG tax payment. Is this correct?

GinnyHench

I'm a U.S. citizen, legal resident in Bulgaria, and my immigration lawyer told me that I do not have to pay taxes on my U.S. pension (which is taxed in the U.S., of course). I'll probably ask the local equivalent of a CPA, to confirm, but ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago

Res/v/citizinship

No, not residency. Depending on your circumstances, you might be able to get dual citizenship eventually - you'd need to consult a lawyer on that - but residency doesn't affect your citizenship. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago

bulgaria

Hi - For what it's worth, I think it is important to visit as often as you can before you decide, and also to prepare yourself as much as possible by visiting various online forums, Facebook pages, etc, and also to look at webpages from ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago
DrDuane

Streaming television for English speakers by DrDuane

Is there streaming TV service with English programs/apps, for example, Brit Box, Prime, etc?

GinnyHench

I have the Amazon fire stick and it works fairly well. Only the most basic fire stick works here, according to Amazon's customer service. There is a lot of online content which cannot be downloaded or viewed in Bulgaria, but there is plenty that ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
6 years ago
Julien

New members of the Bulgaria forum, introduce yourselves here - 2019 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Bulgaria forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...

GinnyHench

Hi - At least in Sofia, there are seem to be as many Bulgarians as expats in InterNations. Events are in English, except for the Russian subgroup, and another subgroup whose purpose is to practice speaking Bulgarian. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
DrDuane

Americans in Bulgaria by DrDuane

I am interested in your location, how long you have been in BG and what you have done re: automobile, taxes, etc. Thanks.

GinnyHench

Hello - no, it is not absolutely necessary to hire a lawyer to get the visa "D", but in my opinion, it is advisable. Yes, for general information you can look on government websites, and it certainly makes sense to look at the ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
DrDuane

Americans in Bulgaria by DrDuane

I am interested in your location, how long you have been in BG and what you have done re: automobile, taxes, etc. Thanks.

GinnyHench

Hi Dr Duane - Yes, I"m here - all's well. I've applied for residency (the first year application) and expect to hear back in a couple of weeks -- all's well here! Looking forward to catching up. Ginny Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
Lee4

Health insurance, healthcare, EHIC by Lee4

Hi guys if I move to Bulgaria as a UK citizen without buying Bulgarian health insurance once there, which from what i've read costs around £12 per month per person, and i only have an EHIC card, what happens if I am taken ill and need ...

GinnyHench

I'm from the US, and I'm a retiree, so my experience will not be exactly what you're looking for, but for whatever it's worth, I would strongly suggest that you contact an immigration lawyer in Bulgaria to advise you. There is a lot ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
DrDuane

Streaming television for English speakers by DrDuane

Is there streaming TV service with English programs/apps, for example, Brit Box, Prime, etc?

GinnyHench

Also- I have had no problems playing NPR and other news sources from their apps on my IPad. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
DrDuane

Streaming television for English speakers by DrDuane

Is there streaming TV service with English programs/apps, for example, Brit Box, Prime, etc?

GinnyHench

I have Amazon Prime, Netflix, and depending on what cable service you get, you can get BBC, CNN, etc. Not familiar with BritBox. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
DrDuane

Healthcare for an American in BG by DrDuane

A current thread has discussed healthcare for an expat from the UK. I am curious about how Americans are managing their healthcare/insurance in BG.

GinnyHench

To get the visa "D", which you need before you can apply for residency, you must purchase health insurance. My lawyer arranged it. Once I got the visa "D" and began the current process of applying for residency, I extended the ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
DrDuane

Americans in Bulgaria by DrDuane

I am interested in your location, how long you have been in BG and what you have done re: automobile, taxes, etc. Thanks.

GinnyHench

Hi DrDuane- I’ve been here about a month. I haven’t needed a car, and if I do, will probably just rent one as needed. (I’m in Sofia). I’m retired, so my income is US based and taxed there.Ginny Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
Johann147

Immigrating to Bulgaria - Looking for a reliable immigration lawyer by Johann147

Hello! I'm hoping that someone can refer me to an immigration lawyer that they've used to help them with the major bureaucratic process of immigrating to Bulgaria. I've Googled a few and reached out to them, but they usually just name ...

GinnyHench

Hi - yes, send me a pm and I'd be happy to supply the info on the lawyer who helped me get my visa D. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
horsepower918

Bulgaria visa online by horsepower918

We are a travel company in west africa . We cover alot of countries that support tourism in africa and the world. We wish to know if it is possible to apply for a bulgarian tourist visa online as holders of passports of ,Guinea, Mali, Senegal and ...

GinnyHench

Hi - sorry. I tried to help. If you want the information, please send me a message. I've been informed that I cannot give you the information you requested. Sorry. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
Johann147

Immigrating to Bulgaria - Looking for a reliable immigration lawyer by Johann147

Hello! I'm hoping that someone can refer me to an immigration lawyer that they've used to help them with the major bureaucratic process of immigrating to Bulgaria. I've Googled a few and reached out to them, but they usually just name ...

GinnyHench

HI - OK. Sorry I couldn't help the person who asked for the information. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
horsepower918

Bulgaria visa online by horsepower918

We are a travel company in west africa . We cover alot of countries that support tourism in africa and the world. We wish to know if it is possible to apply for a bulgarian tourist visa online as holders of passports of ,Guinea, Mali, Senegal and ...

GinnyHench

Hi - yes, I received the documents and had the interview at the Consulate of Bulgaria on March 6. They said that all was well and that I should receive the visa in late April. **** Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
lauraball

Opening Bank Account - As non bulgarian speaker and no bulgarian ID by lauraball

Ok, not been a successful couple of days now! We went to open a bank account at Raffeisen and it seems that only one staff member had very basic English (completely understandable, we recognise we are guests here and do not expect English to be ...

GinnyHench

If you're in Sofia, I really suggest you at least stop by the Unicredit Bulbank branch closest to the Serdika stop. When you go in, there's a guard, and he speaks enough English to direct you to where you open accounts. You take a number, ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
lauraball

Opening Bank Account - As non bulgarian speaker and no bulgarian ID by lauraball

Ok, not been a successful couple of days now! We went to open a bank account at Raffeisen and it seems that only one staff member had very basic English (completely understandable, we recognise we are guests here and do not expect English to be ...

GinnyHench

I opened an account at Unicredit Bulbank in Sofia with no problem. (I went to the branch closest to the Serdika Metro stop). I did not at the time have a Bulgarian address (I was staying with a friend) and I do not have a Bulgarian ID, but that ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
horsepower918

Bulgaria visa online by horsepower918

We are a travel company in west africa . We cover alot of countries that support tourism in africa and the world. We wish to know if it is possible to apply for a bulgarian tourist visa online as holders of passports of ,Guinea, Mali, Senegal and ...

GinnyHench

I’m in the process of applying for a visa D, and according to what my Bulgarian immigration lawyer told me, the process requires a good deal of documentation, background check, and a personal interview. I’m applying from the U.S. and had ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago

Example of Bulgarian language exam for residency?

Hello - I'm still a beginner in learning Bulgarian, but looking ahead, I hope to get to a level of fluency enough to pass the language test for residency. I'm a US citizen, and am still in the visa D application process, so it's a ways ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
alohabg12

Vivacom & roaming by alohabg12

Hi all, I need some advice regarding mobile plans in Bulgaria. I subscribed a plan in a Vivacom store. (the plan you can see on this link to be more specific [url=Vivacom ...

GinnyHench

I am curious about what mobile phone companies are best in Bulgaria, especially for a foreigner who travels a lot. Any recommendations? Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
notreve2

Long stay residency permit of permanent resident by notreve2

When applying for either one of these does a person have to prove they are employed [by a company] or show proof of self-employment? In other words, can a EU citizen live in Bulgaria for a prolonged period of time ...

GinnyHench

Mondly is great - so is UTalkGo - Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
OliviaFree

Overstaying repercussions... by OliviaFree

Okay, so long story short i have overstayed my Bulgarian visa free allowance. What will happen when i leave? Story longer, i am Australian my husband is French. We have moved to Sofia, however the lawyers we have hired to take care of the residence ...

GinnyHench

A friend of mine overstayed due to severe flu last winter, and was assisted by this immigration lawyer: https://www.zacharytsvetkov.com/ Mr. Tsvetkov is fluent in English. My friend had a successful resolution and now has the visa D. Good luck. Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
GinnyHench

American, Retired, looking to settle in Sofia, BG by GinnyHench

Hello all - I just joined this group, and am following the leader in introducing myself :) I am starting the process for a long-term visa, I'm female, currently living in Hawai`i for the last 25 years. I'm staying in Sofia with friends right ...

GinnyHench

Thank you very much! I’m so new here that I haven’t figured out how to send you a message, but would be very interested in your perspective as a retiree in Bulgaria Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
GinnyHench

American, Retired, looking to settle in Sofia, BG by GinnyHench

Hello all - I just joined this group, and am following the leader in introducing myself :) I am starting the process for a long-term visa, I'm female, currently living in Hawai`i for the last 25 years. I'm staying in Sofia with friends right ...

GinnyHench

Thank you, Kristiann - can anyone recommend a hiking group or similar organizations in and around Sofia? Ideally, I’d like to develop a circle of friends of all backgrounds, Bulgarian, and others, not only US or British expats. I’m still ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
JimAH1152

Healthcare in Bulgaria by JimAH1152

My wife and I will be retiring to Europe within the next few years. We love Sofia (wife is Bulgarian, I’m from the United States), but wanted to know how good is healthcare for older retirees in a city like Sofia?

GinnyHench

Hello- I am also interested in health insurance issues- I am retired and in very good health at present. I have looked at the official websites, but the information is not completely clear to me. Any thoughts or tips? Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench replied to a thread
7 years ago
GinnyHench

American, Retired, looking to settle in Sofia, BG by GinnyHench

Hello all - I just joined this group, and am following the leader in introducing myself :) I am starting the process for a long-term visa, I'm female, currently living in Hawai`i for the last 25 years. I'm staying in Sofia with friends right ...

GinnyHench

Thank you - I'm visiting right now, and will probably need to make a few more trips in the near future. I'm not sure what questions I need to ask - am starting the long term visa process - am also interested in getting to know who is in the ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench created a thread
7 years ago

American, Retired, looking to settle in Sofia, BG

Hello all - I just joined this group, and am following the leader in introducing myself :) I am starting the process for a long-term visa, I'm female, currently living in Hawai`i for the last 25 years. I'm staying in Sofia with friends right ... Read More

GinnyHench
GinnyHench joined Bulgaria expat community
7 years ago