grumpyoldbird
English looking for information about Bulgaria
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Registration: 24 April 2023
How to get my stuff from UK to Bulgaria by wendygould2
Hello can anyone please tell me how easy it is to take all my stuff from UK to Bulgaria? Which is best way id like to take most of my belongings over there. Thank you any advice would be appreciated .
I found that most Bulgarian removal companies only have standard Luton vans of around 15m3. If that's all you have to move, then there are plenty of options available. If you need more room than that, I got a quote from Move Day Removals. It was a ... Read More
S1 with French address
I'm not sure if anyone will have personal experience of this, but it's worth a try.I'm a retired UK citizen living in France post Brexit. I contacted the OHS to change my S1 details to Bulgaria, as I plan to move over later this year.Turns out that ... Read More
Any Brits moved from another EU country to Bulgaria post Brexit? by grumpyoldbird
I'll be moving to Bulgaria from France later this year. My S1 is registered to my French address, but if I change it to a Bulgarian address before I leave France, I won't have health cover until its registered in Bulgaria.I will need to produce my ...
@janemulberry Hi Jane, I could do with finding the answer, because I really don't want to pay for my French one to be notarised and apostilled and then find out they won't accept it. There are so many grey areas and it seems impossible to get a ... Read More
Any Brits moved from another EU country to Bulgaria post Brexit? by grumpyoldbird
I'll be moving to Bulgaria from France later this year. My S1 is registered to my French address, but if I change it to a Bulgarian address before I leave France, I won't have health cover until its registered in Bulgaria.I will need to produce my ...
@Kath948381 Thanks Kath. It's been a bit of a long winded process, but hopefully I'm getting there. 😊 Read More
Recommendations for Banks in Bulgaria (EU Citizen) by sfriggieri75
Hi everyone. Can anyone please share which bank is best for opening an account as an EU citizen in Bulgaria, and what documents are required? 🙏
I've just picked up this thread, because I'm coming over next month. I've been told by the Bulgarian Embassy in France that I need to open a Bulgarian bank account to qualify for the Visa D, so I need to open an account while I'm there. Someone ... Read More
Any Brits moved from another EU country to Bulgaria post Brexit?
I'll be moving to Bulgaria from France later this year. My S1 is registered to my French address, but if I change it to a Bulgarian address before I leave France, I won't have health cover until its registered in Bulgaria.I will need to produce my ... Read More
Safe villages in Veliko Tarnovo by Alex_123
Hi, I was wondering if any of you know how safe in regards to crime the villages in VT are.I was looking at some villages in the Polski Trambesh area (Maslarevo, Pavel, Strahilovo, Obedinenie).Do any of you live there? If so, could I have a vacation ...
@Alex_123Just a bit of extra info. I've been looking at houses for sale in Bulgaria for about a year now. I've seen a few that have been completely stripped and I mean upvc windows and doors removed, fittings and electrical wiring ripped out etc ... Read More
EU manufactured trailer
I know there's been quite a lot of posts about trailers and the law surrounding, but I'm trying clarify something which seems to be quite difficult.I currently use a hand built trailer, but it's become apparent that I won't be able to bring it with ... Read More
House insurance by grumpyoldbird
Hi guys, not been on for a while, but recent events in Bulgaria, namely wildfires, have prompted a question. Speaking to a friend in Bulgaria, she told me they have no house insurance. I was quite shocked by this, particularly in light of the ...
Thanks for the replies everyone. It's been helpful. It was more house insurance I was enquiring about, in light of the wildfires this year. It sounds as though your experiences have been that the policies are probably not dissimilar to the UK. My ... Read More
House insurance
Hi guys, not been on for a while, but recent events in Bulgaria, namely wildfires, have prompted a question. Speaking to a friend in Bulgaria, she told me they have no house insurance. I was quite shocked by this, particularly in light of the ... Read More
Exchange rate/Wise/credit card by TonyFF
Is it better to use WISE or a credit cards to pay in stores, hotels, all major purchases?I am still to experiment to compare both. I have a credit card with 1.5% cash back on all transactions, no international fees.I have been using this card ...
This must be the reason I never have any money...I like a bargain, but I really couldn't be bothered with all that hassle. 😕 Read More
Dog lovers: Bulgaria by TonyFF
Since there was a posting about barking dogs recently I decided to start a new topic.Have you seen many stray dogs in the big cities/villages?The very first time I went to Bulgaria I encountered a few packs of dogs in Sofia. Last year I did ...
@TonyFFHi Tony, I don't know if you remember this conversation, buy I know someone who may be looking for a home for a 1 year old, male Karakachan. If you're interested in more info, please pm me.Elaine Read More
Seeking advice about the Bulgarian housing market by GoingDutch
We, a family of 4, are struggling a lot with the Bulgarian housing market and are even considering leaving Bulgaria for this. We have been living (on and off) in Bulgaria for 4 years. We have been renting so far and have been trying to buy several ...
Something I remembered after I replied; you mention Spain and Italy as alternatives to Bulgaria. I don't know what your financial situation is, but be aware that you need a guaranteed annual income of around 28k euros for Spain and around 38k for ... Read More
Seeking advice about the Bulgarian housing market by GoingDutch
We, a family of 4, are struggling a lot with the Bulgarian housing market and are even considering leaving Bulgaria for this. We have been living (on and off) in Bulgaria for 4 years. We have been renting so far and have been trying to buy several ...
@GoingDutchI'd just like to quickly jump in here and say I do understand your argument regarding overpricing. I recently saw an advert for a house in very poor condition, with no obvious redeeming factors and they were rather optimistically ... Read More
Stray dogs in Bulgaria by GuestPoster3658
Hi there Based on your travels and observations and generally being out and about in Bulgaria, what's the stray dog situation like now in Bulgaria?By stray dogs I generally mean dogs that are seen roaming freely in a public place on their own ...
@Suzi MastersonWhat's the name of your village please Suzi?. That sounds like somewhere I could live. I dread the thought of finding loads of strays. Read More
Burglary rate in Bulgaria by GuestPoster3658
Reading this forum you'd think Bulgaria is plagued with domestic property burglaries.But according to these statistics Bulgaria has a burglary rate over 6x less than the UK and over 3x less than Ireland.I have never been burgled living in the UK or ...
I've seen a couple of houses for sale recently that have been renovated, or part renovated and they've been completely stripped. Windows and doors stolen, wiring ripped out, bathroom suites stolen. I feel for the owners, because they'll have lost ... Read More
Golyam Manastir by grumpyoldbird
Hi guys, does anyone know this village?It's Yambol region, not too far from Elhovo I think. If anyone knows it, or of it, I'd be glad of any info. I've done Street View where possible and it doesn't look too bad.
@JimJCool. Thank you 😊 Read More
Golyam Manastir
Hi guys, does anyone know this village?It's Yambol region, not too far from Elhovo I think. If anyone knows it, or of it, I'd be glad of any info. I've done Street View where possible and it doesn't look too bad. Read More
paying monthly properties!! by stoney2016
Hi. Thanks to those who advised on my last question. I saw on ebay and several websites a guy who sells Bulgarian properties valued around 10,000 up to 16,000 and all you pay is 500 a month until it is paid for. I am of the thought that if it ...
@Robertgreen93958You might want to start a new thread for this, as you're tagging onto an old thread. 🙂 Read More
Travel from airports to VT by ButterMyPaws19
I'm trying to find a cheap last minute (ish) flight for the 2 of us (looks like we are going to have to fly to the uk, then fly out from there 🤦♀️) but wondered how easy it is to get by train from any of the airports to VT, ...
@ButterMyPaws19When I went in February, we could only go from Paris Beauvais to Sofia. With hindsight it might have been easier to go to Bucharest, but depending upon timescales you could go to Stansted and then Plovdiv. Trains were a bit slow, but ... Read More
Septic tank system by lorraineburgess
Anyone do new sewage piping and dig pit in garden?? I am in Ivansky and looking for general costs. I have a quote of 2500 Lev which I think is on high side as it's just the standard hole and brickwork and not too far from main house. Any help ...
Are there any particular regulations regarding septic tanks in Bulgaria?France has tightened up a lot in the past 10 to 15 years and some older septic systems are no longer conforming.Micro systems are becoming very popular, because they process the ... Read More
Burst pipe by gwynj
We haven't been to our village house much over the last year, so it's suffering a bit due to lack of regular TLC. :-) If you do get a village house, I reckon they need constant attention to keep them tip-top.I last visited at Christmas when I ...
@gwynjWow! In France that would have been between 350 and 600 euros for the man with digger, depending on availability, plus the cost of the pipe! Read More
Cost of house renovation by Chailling
Hi, We are thinking about buying a beat up house and renovate it ourselves, but we are not sure about the costs here. Will you share your experience? Thank you in advance
@JimJI'd never risk not having insurance, but it does concern me that it would be very easy to make a mistake. I have a friend in Bulgaria, who bought their first house and didn't know the village. Sadly they lived to regret it, but sold it online, ... Read More
Cost of house renovation by Chailling
Hi, We are thinking about buying a beat up house and renovate it ourselves, but we are not sure about the costs here. Will you share your experience? Thank you in advance
@stepool1970Hi can I ask which village you live in?I've been looking at a house online, which has been renovated. I don't know the logistics of it, whether it was a holiday home, whether the owners had to leave for some reason, but the house has ... Read More
Where/how to start? by ButterMyPaws19
We are visiting in September with friends who already have a property in Bulgaria but September seems so far away, we would like to visit sooner to see if our vision is realistic. We are not sure where to start. We want to be rural (on the edge of a ...
@gwynjSadly, no I can't and to be honest it would be too big for me on my own. It's quite a big house, with kennels and outbuildings and 2 separate gardens, one for dogs and one for cats. I think it's probably under priced now, compared to some ... Read More
Where/how to start? by ButterMyPaws19
We are visiting in September with friends who already have a property in Bulgaria but September seems so far away, we would like to visit sooner to see if our vision is realistic. We are not sure where to start. We want to be rural (on the edge of a ...
@gwynjHi Gwyn, re travelling. That was a problem in France, probably more so than the UK. Ryan Air fly from Beauvais to Sofia, which was a long way from where we needed to be. Getting to Beauvais was a problem and if we did the trip again, I would ... Read More
Where/how to start? by ButterMyPaws19
We are visiting in September with friends who already have a property in Bulgaria but September seems so far away, we would like to visit sooner to see if our vision is realistic. We are not sure where to start. We want to be rural (on the edge of a ...
@ButterMyPaws19I've pm'd you, so you know where to find me. 😊 Read More
Where/how to start? by ButterMyPaws19
We are visiting in September with friends who already have a property in Bulgaria but September seems so far away, we would like to visit sooner to see if our vision is realistic. We are not sure where to start. We want to be rural (on the edge of a ...
@ButterMyPaws19My friend and I went over from France recently and it was a nightmare. A lot depends on whereabouts in France you live. If you want to pm me, l'll tell you what we learned, so you don't make the same mistakes. Elaine. Read More
Taking a trailer to bulgaria by CarlS1986
Can I take my self built trailer to BG and leave it there for use on my property (obviously I can't use it on the road there as I won't be able to register it), or would I need to remove it from the country after a set time? I have seen people take ...
@SimCityATSorry I've only just picked up your reply.This is a link to the Service.fr website and my trailer is perfectly legal, as confirmed by my insurers.https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F21112?lang=en Read More
180 period refresh by Yousufh123456789
Hi guys. I wanted to ask another question if that’s ok.My 180 day period will be finishing on the 9th of April. I still have 24 days left of allowed stay from that 180 day period. I wanted to know if I was to time my stay in bulgaria so that ...
@Yousufh123456789I'm a little confused here. Did you have an extended visa to stay for180 days, because without that you're only allowed 90 days. If you did have a 180 day visa, you must leave the country and stay away for 90 days. Without a visa ... Read More
Dog Tax in Bulgaria by Adriana Petrova
Hi all, just to check how many of you are paying the annual dog tax :)
@janemulberryHi Jane. In France dogs have to be registered on ICAD, which is pretty much like the UK companies who register microchips. The difference here is that it's a national database and it's a one-off fee for registration. It is compulsory, ... Read More
Dog Tax in Bulgaria by Adriana Petrova
Hi all, just to check how many of you are paying the annual dog tax :)
@Adriana PetrovaI don't live there, but I'm going tomorrow to look at a house. No one has ever mentioned a dog tax. Please tell me more. Read More
Cost of living in Bulgaria in 2024 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience regarding the cost of living in Bulgaria, and if possible, in the specific region or city where you live. This will help members who are planning to relocate in ...
@philip MckayThank you 😊 Read More
Cost of living in Bulgaria in 2024 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience regarding the cost of living in Bulgaria, and if possible, in the specific region or city where you live. This will help members who are planning to relocate in ...
@philip MckaySorry to be a pain honey but a 400 lev electricity bill sounds quite a lot for a month. Is that normal for you? Read More
Cost of living in Bulgaria in 2024 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience regarding the cost of living in Bulgaria, and if possible, in the specific region or city where you live. This will help members who are planning to relocate in ...
@philip MckayJust to clarify, was that total in lev? 🙂 Read More
Residency Cards by Kath948381
Our cards run out in February 2025 can anyone tell me when we should start the renewal process and what we'd need to take with us.
@Kath948381I'd allow yourself plenty of time Kath.In France you have to apply for an annual visa renewal, between 2 and 4 months before the expiry date. If its on online process, it will probably tell you somewhere on the site. Read More
Van from Ayrshire through Romania
Hi everyone,A friend who runs a dog rescue shelter in Romania has been offered lots of dog stuff, cages, wheels for disabled dogs etc but we need to find someone to collect this stuff and drop it off in the south of England. Does anyone make a trip ... Read More
UK Pensions by GuestPoster1101101
I will be eligible for my first UK pension payment at the end of February.I've not had any Bulgarian income and don't think I ever will.Will Bulgaria want to tax my pension here?And do I need to declare (in Bulgaria) all my pension incomes in ...
@Erm1ntrudeYou can choose to keep the tax payments in the UK. When I moved to France everyone told me I'd have to pay tax to France, but HMRC know where I live and it's never been a problem. When I complete my French tax return, I just show my ... Read More
UK Pensions by GuestPoster1101101
I will be eligible for my first UK pension payment at the end of February.I've not had any Bulgarian income and don't think I ever will.Will Bulgaria want to tax my pension here?And do I need to declare (in Bulgaria) all my pension incomes in ...
@Erm1ntrudeI'm in France, but my pensions are taxed at source, in the UK. One of them is a government pension, where the tax has to be paid to the UK, so I've never bothered to change any of them. I've been told that pensioners in Bulgaria, ... Read More
Non Lucrative visa by grumpyoldbird
Hi, I'm a retired Brit living in France. I've been looking at a move from France to Bulgaria, but my friend has found a house in Spain that she wants us to look at. The problem for me is the amount of cash required for a Spanish visa. I don't really ...
@gwynjThank you. Unfortunately by the time I've been here 5 years, I'm not sure I'd be able to face uprooting again. It would probably help my friend though. Read More
Non Lucrative visa
Hi, I'm a retired Brit living in France. I've been looking at a move from France to Bulgaria, but my friend has found a house in Spain that she wants us to look at. The problem for me is the amount of cash required for a Spanish visa. I don't really ... Read More
Bulgarian currency by grumpyoldbird
My friend and I are arriving next month, literally for a couple of days. We're going to need currency, because we'll going to a restaurant that doesn't accept card payments and I'm guessing they probably won't accept euros either. I'm sure we can ...
@janemulberryIf my friends Wise card and pin come in time, we'll use that. If not we'll have to think again. 🤔 Read More
Bulgarian currency by grumpyoldbird
My friend and I are arriving next month, literally for a couple of days. We're going to need currency, because we'll going to a restaurant that doesn't accept card payments and I'm guessing they probably won't accept euros either. I'm sure we can ...
@maureendevineHopefully my friends new card and pin will arrive in time. Read More
Jacket Potatoes by Kath948381
I was brought up in a two up two down house in Manchester, I'm sure that I can remember Mum making jacket potatoes in the open fireplace. Now living in a Bulgarian village house has anyone ever made Jacket potatoes in a wood burning fire because ...
@SimCityATI dont have room for an oven, so I have an air fryer instead. There are some with drawers, but mine has an oven cavity, so it works like a small oven, but faster and cheaper to run. Read More
Jacket Potatoes by Kath948381
I was brought up in a two up two down house in Manchester, I'm sure that I can remember Mum making jacket potatoes in the open fireplace. Now living in a Bulgarian village house has anyone ever made Jacket potatoes in a wood burning fire because ...
@Kath948381It'll be a lot cheaper than a potato baker. I don't have room for an oven, so I use mine all the time. There are different types, some just have drawers, some have an oven cavity, but I wouldn't be without mine now. Read More
Jacket Potatoes by Kath948381
I was brought up in a two up two down house in Manchester, I'm sure that I can remember Mum making jacket potatoes in the open fireplace. Now living in a Bulgarian village house has anyone ever made Jacket potatoes in a wood burning fire because ...
@Kath948381Have you got an air fryer? Read More
Foreign prejudice against people born in Bulgaria by mickeyhart
Whats the deal with foreigners on computers quick to spread a bunch of prejudice about the Roma? Weve got all sorts out here and its about getting the full picture.In a post someones on about the "Gypsy Problem". Gets me thinking how is that ...
@FredWatched your link. Well there's an intelligent lad!!! 🙄 Read More
Jacket Potatoes by Kath948381
I was brought up in a two up two down house in Manchester, I'm sure that I can remember Mum making jacket potatoes in the open fireplace. Now living in a Bulgarian village house has anyone ever made Jacket potatoes in a wood burning fire because ...
@Kath948381You can do them in an open fire. We used to wrap them in foil and put them on the bonfire 😊 Read More
Bulgarian currency by grumpyoldbird
My friend and I are arriving next month, literally for a couple of days. We're going to need currency, because we'll going to a restaurant that doesn't accept card payments and I'm guessing they probably won't accept euros either. I'm sure we can ...
@grahamstark1Thank you 🙂 Read More
Bulgarian currency by grumpyoldbird
My friend and I are arriving next month, literally for a couple of days. We're going to need currency, because we'll going to a restaurant that doesn't accept card payments and I'm guessing they probably won't accept euros either. I'm sure we can ...
@janemulberryThanks Jane. If my friends pin number turns up in time, I think that's the best option. 🙂 Read More
Bulgarian currency by grumpyoldbird
My friend and I are arriving next month, literally for a couple of days. We're going to need currency, because we'll going to a restaurant that doesn't accept card payments and I'm guessing they probably won't accept euros either. I'm sure we can ...
@grahamstark1So a Wise card is a good option? My friend has one, but she doesn't know how to use it. Do we just transfer funds from another account and then draw lev out at an ATM? Read More
Bulgarian currency by grumpyoldbird
My friend and I are arriving next month, literally for a couple of days. We're going to need currency, because we'll going to a restaurant that doesn't accept card payments and I'm guessing they probably won't accept euros either. I'm sure we can ...
@mickeyhartWe don't land until about 9.30pm and we need to be on a train next morning for about 8am, so we're a bit limited for options. I'm not sure if it will be cheaper to use my French debit card, or my UK one, but we'll only need a couple of ... Read More
Bulgarian currency by grumpyoldbird
My friend and I are arriving next month, literally for a couple of days. We're going to need currency, because we'll going to a restaurant that doesn't accept card payments and I'm guessing they probably won't accept euros either. I'm sure we can ...
@maureendevineThanks for that, bit I'm not in the UK, I'm in France. Read More
Bulgarian currency
My friend and I are arriving next month, literally for a couple of days. We're going to need currency, because we'll going to a restaurant that doesn't accept card payments and I'm guessing they probably won't accept euros either. I'm sure we can ... Read More
Foreign prejudice against people born in Bulgaria by mickeyhart
Whats the deal with foreigners on computers quick to spread a bunch of prejudice about the Roma? Weve got all sorts out here and its about getting the full picture.In a post someones on about the "Gypsy Problem". Gets me thinking how is that ...
@janemulberryWell said Jane. When in Rome.... Read More
driving or flying pet by Suzi Masterson
i need to bring my 6 dogs and 3 cats when we move. its looking to get a bit complicated with the 5 pet max rule (they forget idiots like me with more animals than sense are about :) )to fly i can make it work as my father said hed come taking ...
@Suzi MastersonThat's ridiculous pricing. I brought 6 dogs and 4 cats to France and they charged my £935, which I thought was a lot. I was the last one they did, because they are so time consuming and only certain vets are qualified to do them. Read More
driving or flying pet by Suzi Masterson
i need to bring my 6 dogs and 3 cats when we move. its looking to get a bit complicated with the 5 pet max rule (they forget idiots like me with more animals than sense are about :) )to fly i can make it work as my father said hed come taking ...
@CarlS1986They are starting to clamp down on regular visitors to the EU obtaining Pet Passports and then keeping rabies shots updated in the EU, when the pet is officially resident in the UK. It's unlikely to be a problem in the EU, but when you ... Read More
driving or flying pet by Suzi Masterson
i need to bring my 6 dogs and 3 cats when we move. its looking to get a bit complicated with the 5 pet max rule (they forget idiots like me with more animals than sense are about :) )to fly i can make it work as my father said hed come taking ...
@CarlS1986A health certificate lasts for 4 months and it allows you to travel through Europe. Your dog will need a microchip, rabies vaccination at least 21 days before you travel and a tape wormer within 5 days of travel. Unfortunately it involves ... Read More
From Bournemouth to Bulgaria by SimCityAT
Some of you might find this YouTube channel useful and interesting. From Bournemouth to Bulgaria
@janemulberryThere are a few British chateau owners in France doing it. There's a guy not far from me doing it practically single handed and living in a yurt. I really don't envy him at this time of year. He's clearly making enough to do the ... Read More
British Corner Shop by SimCityAT
Sad news that the British Corner Shop has gone bust. Very surprised as they 1000's of customers worldwide.You can read their statement on their website HERE.
@SimCityATThat's nice to know. I think the only thing that's irreplaceable is my PG Tips. 😋 Read More
Flour Types by Snowball6
Can anyone tell me what the Bulgarian types of flour are/used for please?
@philip MckayOh is the bread rubbish? That was something I was going to ask, because I struggle with the bread in France. Read More
Foreign prejudice against people born in Bulgaria by mickeyhart
Whats the deal with foreigners on computers quick to spread a bunch of prejudice about the Roma? Weve got all sorts out here and its about getting the full picture.In a post someones on about the "Gypsy Problem". Gets me thinking how is that ...
@mickeyhartHow am I spreading prejudice? I've never been to Troyan, but I know someone who has lived there for a long time. I actually said it's no crime to be poor and they move away for 3 months or more, to earn money. I have seen a photo of ... Read More
Property Bubble by Adriana Petrova
hi all, when /if at all/ do you think prices will crash?
@philip MckayThat's probably because of French Inheritance Laws. Kids automatically Inherit and yes, you're right, France is a nightmare. Despite the amount of bureaucracy here, they're really very bad at it. Don't EVER give them originals, you'll ... Read More
Looking for recommendation estate agent in south eastern area by maureendevine
Hi all,Coming to Bulgaria next week house hunting.Was looking at Elhovo but estate agents steering me away towards Sliven. He says gypsies are making Elhovo a problematic area.Has anyone experienced this or is he just trying to get a bigger sale ...
@mickeyhartMaybe you should Read More
Implications of selling a Bulgarian house by grumpyoldbird
Hi guys, I've had this text sent to me about the implications of selling a house in Bulgaria. This is exactly as it was sent to me and I have no idea where it originated;I AM NOT AN ACCOUNTANT OR LAWYER. This is just my understanding of the ...
@Hristo MarinovThank you Hristo, that's very helpful.....and reassuring 🙂 Read More
Looking for recommendation estate agent in south eastern area by maureendevine
Hi all,Coming to Bulgaria next week house hunting.Was looking at Elhovo but estate agents steering me away towards Sliven. He says gypsies are making Elhovo a problematic area.Has anyone experienced this or is he just trying to get a bigger sale ...
@maureendevine😉 I like to think older and wiser. 🙂 Read More
Looking for recommendation estate agent in south eastern area by maureendevine
Hi all,Coming to Bulgaria next week house hunting.Was looking at Elhovo but estate agents steering me away towards Sliven. He says gypsies are making Elhovo a problematic area.Has anyone experienced this or is he just trying to get a bigger sale ...
@maureendevineI cant remember who told me, but Sliven was a place I was advised to avoid. Maybe he's pushing you into that location because he's struggling to sell something and a foreigner, with "more money than sense" is an easy target....maybe I ... Read More
Moving dogs and cats from uk to BG by Suzi Masterson
ok so i have to many dogs (6) and 3 cats that will be coming with us. im pricing up the options.id thought id fly them and arrange it myself. not rocket science.im trying to find an airline that will let me do that! i even thought ill drive them to ...
@Suzi MastersonIt's nice that you've found a friend. Just remember one health certificate for each pet, will get you all the way through Europe. You don't need one for each country and its valid for 4 months. If anyone tells you differently, stand ... Read More
Moving dogs and cats from uk to BG by Suzi Masterson
ok so i have to many dogs (6) and 3 cats that will be coming with us. im pricing up the options.id thought id fly them and arrange it myself. not rocket science.im trying to find an airline that will let me do that! i even thought ill drive them to ...
@Suzi MastersonThe XL Bully is a sledgehammer to crack a nut. It's the idiots that own them, not the dogs. All that will happen now, is that they'll move on to other breeds. Cane Corso's are the current favourite. I'm not actually setting up the ... Read More
Rental agreements by grumpyoldbird
If all goes well with my visit next month, I will buying a house that's currently run as a dog and cat rescue. As the current owners work with a German Rescue Association, it's going to be quite a steep learning curve, so the current owners have ...
@gwynjThank you for that. You're right of course, it could go either way. I might get to Bulgaria and absolutely hate it and if it's only a deposit, it would give me the option to cut my losses. I don't think they'll back out, because rescue does ... Read More
Rental agreements
If all goes well with my visit next month, I will buying a house that's currently run as a dog and cat rescue. As the current owners work with a German Rescue Association, it's going to be quite a steep learning curve, so the current owners have ... Read More
Quick Visa question by MasonD
Im not sure if this has been asked before, apologies if it has.I have 2 small final salary pensions that start to pay out when i am 60, about £7k a year (£600 a month).As i understand it the D visa requirements for retirees state 'A ...
@grahamstark1Thank you. Read More
Quick Visa question by MasonD
Im not sure if this has been asked before, apologies if it has.I have 2 small final salary pensions that start to pay out when i am 60, about £7k a year (£600 a month).As i understand it the D visa requirements for retirees state 'A ...
@philip MckayThank you. That would be really helpful. 🥰 Read More
Quick Visa question by MasonD
Im not sure if this has been asked before, apologies if it has.I have 2 small final salary pensions that start to pay out when i am 60, about £7k a year (£600 a month).As i understand it the D visa requirements for retirees state 'A ...
@janemulberryYes, sadly there seem to be different rules, according to each person's circumstances. I don't recall needing to provide proof of funds when I came to France, but I did have funds then. Living in France has depleted those funds and more ... Read More
Property Bubble by Adriana Petrova
hi all, when /if at all/ do you think prices will crash?
@janemulberryThat's probably true, but thanks all the same. 🙂 Read More
Property Bubble by Adriana Petrova
hi all, when /if at all/ do you think prices will crash?
@philip MckayOh I'm sorry about your mum. I hope your dad manages to get a good price for his house. It is a long drive. Read More
Property Bubble by Adriana Petrova
hi all, when /if at all/ do you think prices will crash?
@philip MckayWell if it's any consolation, I bought my French house 17 years ago and it still hasn't reached what I paid for it. With the housing market as it is in my area, it probably never will. 🙄 Read More
Quick Visa question by MasonD
Im not sure if this has been asked before, apologies if it has.I have 2 small final salary pensions that start to pay out when i am 60, about £7k a year (£600 a month).As i understand it the D visa requirements for retirees state 'A ...
Can I can quickly clarify, without getting involved in an argument? This "money in the bank" business, was a bit of a shock to me. I'll need to spend a lot of money to get my French house up to rental standards and also transporting my dogs is going ... Read More
Property Bubble by Adriana Petrova
hi all, when /if at all/ do you think prices will crash?
@philip MckayYou're right, prices have shot up. When I saw the house I'm coming to look at next month, I thought it was a bit pricey. They're leaving pretty much everything, including and old 4x4. It's equipped as a rescue centre/ kennels, so I ... Read More
Hiring a car by derekhandyman
Hi all and a happy new year to all expats. Hope you have all had a good one so far. I am getting closer to coming across and view some houses and I am thinking about hiring a car so that we can go view over a wide area. I am travelling from the UK ...
@dencreissAre Kamen cars only based in VT? Read More
Is KONAK a bad area? by derekhandyman
Is Konak a bad area to buy? There seems to be quite a few houses for sale at very cheap prices. Just wondering if it has a gypsy problem or if the village is dead.
@mickeyhartIt's not like that in every village though. I know someone in Troyan and her village has quite a few gypsies. They follow the work, so they go to the cities for months over the winter. The houses are run down, because they don't have the ... Read More
Is KONAK a bad area? by derekhandyman
Is Konak a bad area to buy? There seems to be quite a few houses for sale at very cheap prices. Just wondering if it has a gypsy problem or if the village is dead.
@derekhandymanI understand. It's very difficult to find that kind of information. I think I've found demographics in the past on Numbeo. I'm not saying it'll be available for every village, but its worth a try. Read More
Is KONAK a bad area? by derekhandyman
Is Konak a bad area to buy? There seems to be quite a few houses for sale at very cheap prices. Just wondering if it has a gypsy problem or if the village is dead.
@derekhandymanIf you don't get any replies, have a look on street view. It only takes you down the main routes through the villages and it won't tell you everything you need to know, but it will give you some idea. Ive used it to check out quite a ... Read More
Hiring a car by derekhandyman
Hi all and a happy new year to all expats. Hope you have all had a good one so far. I am getting closer to coming across and view some houses and I am thinking about hiring a car so that we can go view over a wide area. I am travelling from the UK ...
@derekhandymanYou can pay by debit card, but you need a credit card for the deposit. Check again, because if you turn up without a credit card, it's going to be nightmare if you then find out you need one. Read More
New members of the Bulgaria forum, introduce yourselves here - 2024 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 your ...
@greenOasisHi Victor. Welcome. Read More
Hiring a car by derekhandyman
Hi all and a happy new year to all expats. Hope you have all had a good one so far. I am getting closer to coming across and view some houses and I am thinking about hiring a car so that we can go view over a wide area. I am travelling from the UK ...
@ButterMyPaws19Me too. I got rid of mine years ago because they're so tempting. We're having to get the train to the nearest town and the owners of the house are picking us up from the station. We're only there for 3 days and most of that will be ... Read More
Question about car insurance by TonyFF
HI all, I got my prolonged residence card !!!! Yeah:) But I am back in the USA.Returning to Bulgaria in April.I will be shipping my car to Bulgaria- I have international driver permit and I read that I can drive a car with foreign plate up to ...
@TonyFFMe too. Been driving for 48 years, but I was told that you need proof of education to get a Bulgarian driving license. I have read somewhere that this no longer applies, but I've read so much stuff from so many sources, that I can't remember ... Read More
Hiring a car by derekhandyman
Hi all and a happy new year to all expats. Hope you have all had a good one so far. I am getting closer to coming across and view some houses and I am thinking about hiring a car so that we can go view over a wide area. I am travelling from the UK ...
@derekhandymanI haven't heard of that, but I was looking at hiring a car for next month and I found out that if you don't have an EU driving licence, you'll need an International one. Apparently you can get them online and they're not expensive. You ... Read More
New members of the Bulgaria forum, introduce yourselves here - 2024 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 your ...
@MasonDHi Shaun and welcome. How are you getting your D Visa? Read More
Question about car insurance by TonyFF
HI all, I got my prolonged residence card !!!! Yeah:) But I am back in the USA.Returning to Bulgaria in April.I will be shipping my car to Bulgaria- I have international driver permit and I read that I can drive a car with foreign plate up to ...
@Erm1ntrudeI'm sure I've read somewhere that you no longer need the certificate of education. I left school before my 15th birthday, so I have nothing from school. I did an access course as an adult, which is equivalent to 2 A Levels, so I'm hoping ... Read More
Question about car insurance by TonyFF
HI all, I got my prolonged residence card !!!! Yeah:) But I am back in the USA.Returning to Bulgaria in April.I will be shipping my car to Bulgaria- I have international driver permit and I read that I can drive a car with foreign plate up to ...
@TonyFFWill your current insurance provider cover you in Europe for 3 months? When I brought my van from the UK to France, I could drive it Europe for 90 days, so I used that until the 90 days expired and then took out a French policy. I didnt have ... Read More
Holiday blues by philip Mckay
Well arrived Bulgaria fantastic flight came in at 30 minutes early (Now the blues started Booked a car with easy rent back in October through economy bookings .. no car and no one in the office either . No answers to any of the tel numbers ... ...
@philip MckayWhat a nightmare, but nothing compared to your poor wife's sister. I'm so sorry. Your wife must be devastated. 😔 Read More
Starlink internet everywhere in Bulgaria by mickeyhart
Elon Musk just wired up the whole of Bulgaria. Just checking if anyone tried Starlink before I take the plunge?
@mickeyhartI dont have it myself, but quite a few people in rural France have it. Its difficult to get internet in rural areas here, but apparently its pretty expensive by all accounts. Check out the prices before you commit. Read More
Where to consider moving for a more self sufficient lifestyle ? by ButterMyPaws19
Hi, we are English (hubby and I) early retirees, who had moved to France pre brexit but are now looking to move to Bulgaria for a new adventure. We moved to rural France for a quieter, more self sufficient, as off grid as possible, life but it is ...
@jasmith837Most houses are in, or on the edge of villages. I was originally looking for a rural property, but they are difficult to find....not impossible, but they don't come up very often. My advice would be to start looking around on the internet ... Read More
Where to consider moving for a more self sufficient lifestyle ? by ButterMyPaws19
Hi, we are English (hubby and I) early retirees, who had moved to France pre brexit but are now looking to move to Bulgaria for a new adventure. We moved to rural France for a quieter, more self sufficient, as off grid as possible, life but it is ...
@ButterMyPaws19Hi and welcome to the club! I'm English and bought my French renovation project in 2007. I finally retired and moved over in June 2022 and I'm now hoping to move to Bulgaria later this year. Like you, I've noticed a massive increase ... Read More
Implications of selling a Bulgarian house
Hi guys, I've had this text sent to me about the implications of selling a house in Bulgaria. This is exactly as it was sent to me and I have no idea where it originated;I AM NOT AN ACCOUNTANT OR LAWYER. This is just my understanding of the ... Read More
Property Bubble by Adriana Petrova
hi all, when /if at all/ do you think prices will crash?
@janemulberryIf you're in a 'first time buyers house', then you're in a better place than some, even if the market crashes again. If first time buyers cant afford it, there are always people down sizing, so there's always a market. The fact that ... Read More
Property Bubble by Adriana Petrova
hi all, when /if at all/ do you think prices will crash?
@janemulberryIf I'd had advance warning of the 2008 crash, I wouldn't have bought my French house in 2007. I paid the going rate, at that time, but my house is now worth less than I paid for it all those years ago.As all markets, it's about supply ... Read More
Taking a trailer to bulgaria by CarlS1986
Can I take my self built trailer to BG and leave it there for use on my property (obviously I can't use it on the road there as I won't be able to register it), or would I need to remove it from the country after a set time? I have seen people take ...
@CarlS1986My trailer is a hand made one, unbraked and because it has a loaded weight of under 500kgs, I didn't have to register it in France. It's included on my insurance and has the same number plate as the one on the rear of my van, but nothing ... Read More
Taking a trailer to bulgaria by CarlS1986
Can I take my self built trailer to BG and leave it there for use on my property (obviously I can't use it on the road there as I won't be able to register it), or would I need to remove it from the country after a set time? I have seen people take ...
@janemulberryWhen I brought my van and trailer to France, I had to include them on my Inventory list. If it's part of your permanent move, it's classed as part of your possessions and you have 6 months to bring everything over. I plan on doing the ... Read More