grahamstark1
English expat in Bulgaria
Forum posts
148
Contacts
5
About me
English
Registration: 22 May 2023
Car fire extinguishers by jonahaw
Hi everyone.I am looking for info with regard to car fire extinguishers. I have been told today that I need to have it checked annually and a new type of sticker, much like the insurance sticker applied. Previously, l have been checking it myself ...
@jonahawNormally there will be a shop located at your local KAT inspection and registration centre. Read More
Driving License Question by VillageLife
I recently got my permanent residence in Bulgaria, however I don't live there (I maybe spend a month a year at best on holidays). I am confused about the driving situation, when I am there, can I use my UK license to drive around? or the fact that I ...
@janemulberryYes my wife has a 5yr residency and she is required to spend at least 30 months in Bulgaria to satisfy the terms, whilst I am on Prolonged Stay Residency and have to spend at least 183 days of each year in Bulgaria to be granted my next ... Read More
Relocating to Bulgaria under Type D long-stay visa by Diegres
Hi @Julien,We are exploring the possibility of relocating to Bulgaria under the Type D long-stay visa.We would greatly appreciate if you could kindly tell us where we could download the visa forms from.Any other tips are very welcome ...
@VillageLifeRemote income does not count towards a Visa type D on retirement (pensioner) grounds at all. As previously mentioned only a work place pension or state pension is counted. Also for the first five years as a foreigner(non EU) you are only ... Read More
I've just lost a tooth filling by Kath948381
So I suppose I'll have to get the early bus to Pomorie tomorrow morning to visit a dentist, lucky me.
@Kath948381If you do as far as I know you are entitled to one free filling a year. Read More
I've just lost a tooth filling by Kath948381
So I suppose I'll have to get the early bus to Pomorie tomorrow morning to visit a dentist, lucky me.
Hi i can tell you my wife had work done here in Vratsa by an excellent dentist in a clean modern surgery recently. An extraction was 40 leva, a combination of crowns and bridge for ten top teeth was 2000 leva. She didnt have a filling but just ... Read More
Cost of living? by janemulberry
I saw Numbeo just released their cost of living mid-year update for all the major cities of the world. Here are Bulgaria's: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/region_rankings.jsp?title=2024-mid®ion=151Would those already living in Bulgaria ...
@janemulberryDifficult to say as a good 80% or more of us (i'm guessing) dont live in Sofia or a city of any great size. We live outside Vratsa in the NW which is the poorest and cheapest area allegedly and everything bar supermarket food and second ... Read More
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 ...
@alanjolly65Hi, the woman who used to do the Visa D applications in London was very helpful at the time (2022) but believe she has now moved on. I did a lot of my own research but also employed my Advocate that I already had to double check ... Read More
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 ...
@alanjolly65My printed statements from Barclays were acceptable at the Embassy, Pension documents must have a certifiable wet signature so I had to ring the provider for this. Read More
Shotguns and rifles by graemewalker
I have rifles and shotguns as I do a lot of shooting in the UK . I'm wondering if you have to register in Bulgaria and how? Also has anyone had any exposure in bringing their equipment over travel etc.
@graemewalkerAs far as I'm aware you will have to have permanent residency which if you're coming on a retirement pension D Visa you won't be able to get for the first five years. We have a Veterans group here that organises range days as you can ... 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 ...
@spacelizard68Hi, I haven't personally but I did use my general Advocate here in Vratsa, its worth the £600 expenses not to get it wrong on first application as mistakes made then would cost a lot more in time and money. Read More
Putting in new windows and doors - costs? by noel6
Hi all Can anyone give us some idea on costs for putting in new PVC windows into a house in the VT region and also PVC exterior doors and what experience you have had and also any recommendations? Thanks in advance
@georgewheelwrightHi George as Jane says we are on one of the main flight paths here to Sofia and onward to the Middle East. Im not on board with Chemtrails but you will find cloud seeding does occur around us here in Vratsa province when there are ... Read More
Tick bite urgent advice needed by ruby_hosh
Hello everyone,Last night my youngest got a tick stuck in her armpit, which was quite a scare for us. A villager helped us remove it by dabbing the tick with cotton soaked in alcohol. She still has a small red lump in her armpit now. We've kept the ...
@Ozzy183aAs a rule of thumb unless the tick has been attached longer than 24hrs the risk of disease transmission is low, so first dont panic. Sensible advice re removal has already been given on here, invest in good hook end tick removal tweezers. ... Read More
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 ...
@BhavnaAh thank you, didn't realise it had been asked on different threads lol. Read More
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 ...
@WaynehdragonHi I did post the link last night but its been deleted for some reason, its the ACRO police records check you need. Read More
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 ...
https://www.acro.police.uk/s/acro-services/police-certificates Read More
Amazon Germany by Snowball6
If ordering from above, I often find that delivery costs are double or more than the item cost. Is there any way around this?
Its to do with the cost of delivery buddy, pay a fraction of the price. And there are very definitely things not available in Bulgaria that I have had to order from Germany. I too tend to use Emag first purely on delivery times but Amazon is a great ... Read More
Setting things up when I arrive by CarlS1986
As you may be aware, I'm heading over to my place in a few weeks, I have read that you get charged commercial rates for electricity when you set up an account with the electric company, I have purchased my property via a company as is the case for ...
Its worth noting that certainly in our case with CEZ the price is variable monthly depending on energy prices. Certainly in Vratsa they will charge you commercial rates and you will need a notarised rental agreement. Our water company just needed ... Read More
Amazon Germany by Snowball6
If ordering from above, I often find that delivery costs are double or more than the item cost. Is there any way around this?
@janemulberryIts the address you may need to change, Maerkische Allee 193 doesn't exist as a direct translation really,, in German there's no "e" and an umlaut instead above the "a" so its Märkische Allee. I use GGBG.bg all the time with Amazon ... Read More
Well and water advice by CarlS1986
Good morning everyone,I will be heading over in about two weeks to my property, one thing I am aware off is that there is no electric installed (no wiring, just an old fuse board) there is 1 tap in the property located in the "kitchen" I am dubious ...
Until i retired two years ago I was part of the Drinking Water scientific team for a UK water company so have always taken a keen interest in the supply here. I stopped drinking the tap water years ago after seeing how much dissolved minerals were ... 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 ...
As far as I'm aware you pay tax on any UK investments, I dont pay Bulgarian tax but am classified by HMRC as non resident in the UK and still pay tax at source on my drawdown and military pensions above the UK standard tax allowance. Read More
Solar Panels in 2024 by GuestPoster1101101
I'm looking into installing some Solar Panels, but before I start talking to companies, I want to draw up a requirements spec.And that's where I begin to struggle, as I don't really know what I need or how to size it, just a vague idea of what I ...
@MarharytaIts up the page in my reply to Rosebub. Good luck. 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 ...
@grumpyoldbirdYes exactly that, or you can open a revolut account and have a card within a week. I use Revolut and Monzo, Monzo i use for instant access savings as they pay 4.6 % interest. 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 ...
Revolut/Monzo/Wise card, either or and take out from a regular cashpoint like UBB that dont charge. Pound is doing well at the moment and on one of those cards you will get around 2.28 leva to the GBP, with the official rate being 2.29. Euros are ... Read More
Solar Panels in 2024 by GuestPoster1101101
I'm looking into installing some Solar Panels, but before I start talking to companies, I want to draw up a requirements spec.And that's where I begin to struggle, as I don't really know what I need or how to size it, just a vague idea of what I ...
@janemulberryHi yes the price of their panels is very good but theres a glut of panels in European warehouses at the moment so the prices are falling everywhere, so quality becomes the factors to consider. Praktiker certainly cant match invertor and ... Read More
Solar Panels in 2024 by GuestPoster1101101
I'm looking into installing some Solar Panels, but before I start talking to companies, I want to draw up a requirements spec.And that's where I begin to struggle, as I don't really know what I need or how to size it, just a vague idea of what I ...
@RosebubJust a quick note to give you some help with various companies and sites that I used for the solar setup Im installing.For my Risen 545w panels, mounting rails and cableI used Global Solar Bulgariahttps://solarbulgaria.eu/The bigger panels ... 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.
@SimCityATSad that any business turns its toes up and thoughts go out to the owners and staff . As an aside I don't know if many people use GGBG.bg but you can do a home shop for those hard to find goods in the UK or Germany and have it delivered to ... Read More
Has anyone got a A1. Netbox ? And if so us it post pay or pre pay by philip Mckay
Home internet
@philip MckayYes we have two on pay monthly contracts. 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 MckayAs I said we will agree to disagree. 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 ...
@grumpyoldbirdI can only tell you what happens at Vratsa immigration and as quoted by the link I posted above for a specialist immigration lawyer in Sofia. In my experience the VisaD is granted as a temporary residence for 6 months before the end of ... 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 ...
We will agree to disagree then. 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 ...
https://visaforbulgaria.com/bulgarian-extended-residence-permit#who-is-eligible 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 MckayOk we will see when you go to immigration, but trust me Im in my second year of doing it now and have had to supply a certified statement from the Bulgarian bank showing 12 months of income as a balance on account. You will also 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 ...
@philip Mckay its when you apply for your residency card that you are required to show the funds in the bank, a Visa D is a leave to apply for residency not a guaranteed right. So for us under 67 we are required for the first five years to show the ... 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 ...
@TonyFFHaving permanent residence in Bulgaria doesn't give you citizenship so you will never give up your US rights. I dont choose prolonged stay, its the only option to foreigners (not EU Citizens) for the first five years unless like you your ... Read More
New Vignette by mickeyhart
Do we still get to the end of January? First time for old muggins here getting them new online vignettes. Dont want to make a goat rodeo out of it like when I tried doing my tax online.
The rates are so cheap for longer vignettes that it makes sense to buy a year outright, do it through your bank or the App and you will get a reminder around ten days before your current vignette expires. Think its 87 leva annually while a month is ... Read More
Solar Panels in 2024 by GuestPoster1101101
I'm looking into installing some Solar Panels, but before I start talking to companies, I want to draw up a requirements spec.And that's where I begin to struggle, as I don't really know what I need or how to size it, just a vague idea of what I ...
@mickeyhartSent, sorry its a copy and paste to everyone, not being impersonal 😂 Read More
POST OFFICE BOX by TonyFF
Hi again expats, I have a question. Does anyone of you have a PO Box in Bulgaria?And if so what is your experience with it? ( cost, reliability etc.)
@TonyFFYes i use Amazon DE and have it sent with Prime to GGBG.bg who then courier every week to Bulgaria from Berlin. Considerably cheaper and quicker than Amazon delivery. Read More
Solar Panels in 2024 by GuestPoster1101101
I'm looking into installing some Solar Panels, but before I start talking to companies, I want to draw up a requirements spec.And that's where I begin to struggle, as I don't really know what I need or how to size it, just a vague idea of what I ...
I have sent those that asked a list of suppliers I used. Graham Read More
Solar Panels in 2024 by GuestPoster1101101
I'm looking into installing some Solar Panels, but before I start talking to companies, I want to draw up a requirements spec.And that's where I begin to struggle, as I don't really know what I need or how to size it, just a vague idea of what I ...
Will collate a list and send to all those interested. Batteries were done on a group purchase through a solar self installation group on Facebook that we have here in BG, not allowed to post the link on here. Read More
Solar Panels in 2024 by GuestPoster1101101
I'm looking into installing some Solar Panels, but before I start talking to companies, I want to draw up a requirements spec.And that's where I begin to struggle, as I don't really know what I need or how to size it, just a vague idea of what I ...
@Ozzy183aThere is no requirement in Bulgaria. Read More
Retiring to Burgas by michaelgillba
Hello All,After a lot of research, we see that Bulgaria is going to be a great place to retire. We've just signed a contract on an apartment and will move in in a few weeks. Looking forward (Not!) to the registration process for me (Irish ...
@michaelgillbaHi Michael by all accounts reunification visa if you're not married is incredibly difficult although Bulgaria claims to accept cohabiting couples. My partner had her residency but I still had to go the VisaD route, we are getting ... 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 ...
@TonyFF Me 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
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 ...
@philip MckayThere is no longer a requirement for a certificate of education, it was changed in September last year. You will need a medical certificate though and if you want to keep any hgv, trailer categories you will also need a psychological ... 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 ...
Hi yes i used my private pension to retire at 58 two years ago, a lot depends if your pension is index linked with the way the national minimum wage is continuously rising here in Bulgaria if its not a drawdown pension that you can adjust according ... Read More
Solar Panels in 2024 by GuestPoster1101101
I'm looking into installing some Solar Panels, but before I start talking to companies, I want to draw up a requirements spec.And that's where I begin to struggle, as I don't really know what I need or how to size it, just a vague idea of what I ...
@Erm1ntrudeNo worries if you need help with suppliers of the kit let me know. Battery cost was low as we did a group purchase direct from the Chinese factory. Read More
Solar Panels in 2024 by GuestPoster1101101
I'm looking into installing some Solar Panels, but before I start talking to companies, I want to draw up a requirements spec.And that's where I begin to struggle, as I don't really know what I need or how to size it, just a vague idea of what I ...
Ok, so i can help you out a little here as Im in the middle of installing a hybrid system myself. Costings wise its cost me around £3.5k, this included:-12x545w panels £1202.007kw invertor £319.622x5kw lipo4 batteries ... 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?
@TonyFFThen just crack on and get what you want or dont want. Residency is not a one size fits all and maybe an attitude adjustment wouldn't go amiss. 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?
@TonyFFFirstly its very difficult nigh impossible to get contracts on your prolonged stay residency, if you have a five year residency you're good to go. If you dont like big brother then you will have a shock about the beurocracy of life here in ... 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 ...
@SimCityATInstead of quoting friends, family, Fritz and Pierre down the road can you show any hard and fast facts ? Most EU countries you can drive on UK plates for up to six months, although your insurance will normally restrict that to 3 months, ... 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 ...
@CarlS1986Very doubtful if your trailer has an IVA, Austria has the six month rule in place so as long as you are insured you wouldn't need a Pickerl. 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 ...
@SimCityATHow exactly does this apply to the original poster towing his trailer on UK plates to Bulgaria, which they can do quite legally ? 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 ...
@SimCityATWhich bit is false? 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 ...
Under UK/EU law you will be able to drive it on UK towing car plates if under 3500kg temporarily( 750kg for commercial use) . Once here in Bulgaria its a different ball game and all trailers/caravans need to be individually registered in their own ... Read More
Emails from BG to UK. by georgewheelwright
How has your experience been concerning emails from BG Estate agents etc ?.We actually found the right for us and sent several emails to the company selling it.Days passed without any contact until we saw the dreaded SOLD sign ,,we were gutted so ...
@georgewheelwrightWow, i paid 3.5k for my 2008 2Trafic Sport 2 years ago as i wanted the option of six seats when we had visitors. It had 175k on the clock., and I have fitted new injectors, pig of a job, altenator and battery, handbrake cables, ... Read More
Emails from BG to UK. by georgewheelwright
How has your experience been concerning emails from BG Estate agents etc ?.We actually found the right for us and sent several emails to the company selling it.Days passed without any contact until we saw the dreaded SOLD sign ,,we were gutted so ...
@georgewheelwrightI've just been through the rigmarole of importing my UK registered rhd van. The problem I really had was that nobody seemed to know the rules post Brexit, not even the so called fixer companies. For me I imported my Renault Trafic ... Read More
Best route to drive to Vratsa. by KEDDLE
Hello all, We will be driving from the tunnel to Vratsa in our partially converted Renault Trafic LWB van at the beginning of September. Can anyone give us some advice about the best route to take, paying tolls etc please? It will be the fist of ...
@mickeyhartHi buddy, i tried to find the post to reply to you and couldn't. No its not open but Waze will try and tell you it is, the best detour is still through Pavolche, the detour through Kreta and Mezdra is horrendous unless you have a 4x4.It ... Read More
Wifi and mobile phone options by Suzi Masterson
i think its time to do both. now i know we have electric (im sooo excited you cant imagine after all the stress and worry of not having it).i better get the wifi up and running before taking a teenage lad and a 20 year old lad over. theyd murder me ...
A1 is very good but obviously depends on your village. We were lucky and found a good customer sales rep in Vratsa who speaks good English. We found the tv package good but not enough data for our needs eg tv streaming on Firesticks so we have two ... Read More
Taxes on house sale by tonyboy
Hi can anyone advise me please . I payed 18500 lev ( 10500 euros ) plus taxes and cost s came to a considerable amount more . I sold it at a huge loss last year for 5608 euros . I have been told by my accountant in Bulgaria that I must pay ...
As far as Im aware, the tax of 10% is only paid on any profit they make. If they sell at a loss there is no tax to pay. Read More
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 ...
@grumpyoldbirdLucy Irvine from the book and film "Castaway" fame has a rescue foundation here or you could try Helen's House of Hope, but think were both here pre Brexit. Read More
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 ...
@tutisservistutisservisI was told i couldn't register our other Bulgarian car on a one year residency in Vratsa.Seems different KAT offices must read the rules differently. Read More
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 ...
@tutisservisDid you register it in Sofia and do you have to reregister every year for your first five years ? Read More
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 ...
@tutisservisYes i had my residents permit and it was a UK plate. Read More
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 ...
@tutisservisI was only allowed to register through the company or on temporary import plates and A1 wouldnt give me contracts just for a year. Read More
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 ...
@janemulberry Yes your correct about the first five years for which you get a "prolonged stay card" annually , you cannot register a car or have phone contracts etc with this card. You can then apply for a five year residency if you have satisfied ... Read More
Moved back to Bulgaria by mickeyhart
Oi Expats! I'm Mickey, I call myself the Bulgaria boomerang – I keep coming back for more punishment!So, here’s my lucky tale. I've been dipping in and out of Bulgaria years now. Owned three houses, each one a bloody saga everytime ...
@SimCityATMy application was already in and we are not married, although Bulgaria says it recognises long term relationships in truth its very difficult to get reunification on those grounds. Read More
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 ...
@birtbirtExactly as Jane said. Read More
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 ...
@philip MckayHi Phil , yes i used apostle.org. Read More
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 ...
@georgewheelwrightHi George I have also successfully gone the Visa D route on a private pension, if I can be of any help. Now in my second year of prolonged stay residency. Read More
SIM card in Bulgaria by TonyFF
Hello, I need a quick advice. I have unlocked smart phone- need to buy a sim card in Bulgaria to last me a month and to be able to call USA. Can you advise on that please.
@TonyFFHi Tony, PAYG can be a pig here , A1 for instance you have to top up at terminals instore which in themselves are challenge. We have A1 contracts as residents which are brilliant. You would probably be better buying a sim at home with a good ... Read More
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 ...
@philip MckayHi Phil, just a moot point, but when I did my D Visa the FCO would not legalise and Apostille private/company pensions. They would not even entertain my Army pension because all service pensions are serviced by a private provider. I had ... Read More
Moved back to Bulgaria by mickeyhart
Oi Expats! I'm Mickey, I call myself the Bulgaria boomerang – I keep coming back for more punishment!So, here’s my lucky tale. I've been dipping in and out of Bulgaria years now. Owned three houses, each one a bloody saga everytime ...
@mickeyhartVratsa immigration did exactly the same for my other half two years ago after she was cheeky enough to ask when the guy who sits on the second desk in came out to do the security checks for my D visa . I still have to visit them every ... Read More
Best route to drive to Vratsa. by KEDDLE
Hello all, We will be driving from the tunnel to Vratsa in our partially converted Renault Trafic LWB van at the beginning of September. Can anyone give us some advice about the best route to take, paying tolls etc please? It will be the fist of ...
@mickeyhartIts supposed to be partially open on the 1st December, I will let you know next Saturday when I drop a visitor back to the airport. 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 ...
We have taken in 3 dogs in the two years we have been back in Bulgaria. Two were in a poor state when they adopted us and one was left as a puppy under our car. We have also had two litters of cats adopt us, 13 in total of which there were only ... Read More
D Visa and Drink Driving conviction by billythekid007
Hello all, I probably already know the answer to this question, but I will ask it anyway, I have a drink driving conviction that will show on my Acro certificate. I got a ban for 12 months and I genuinely feel complete remorse as it was a silly and ...
Yes its the same standards for both as far as i know. Read More
D Visa and Drink Driving conviction by billythekid007
Hello all, I probably already know the answer to this question, but I will ask it anyway, I have a drink driving conviction that will show on my Acro certificate. I got a ban for 12 months and I genuinely feel complete remorse as it was a silly and ...
@billythekid007As long as you didnt get a custodial then its spent after 5 years. Read More
D Visa and Drink Driving conviction by billythekid007
Hello all, I probably already know the answer to this question, but I will ask it anyway, I have a drink driving conviction that will show on my Acro certificate. I got a ban for 12 months and I genuinely feel complete remorse as it was a silly and ...
@billythekid007Hi it will probably show as "no live trace" due to the step down rule as opposed to "no trace" for a clean Criminal Record. Remember an ACRO is a lifetime check on National Police records not just the last ten years or on your present ... Read More
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 ...
@georgewheelwrightHi, as long as your private pension exceeds that of the national minimum wage (around 9800 leva per annum at the moment) if you're under 67 years then that would satisfy the financial rules. Where you may fall down is that to ... Read More
My Experience of Bulgaria Never go to Bulgaria by GuestPoster357
NEVER go to Bulgaria you have been warned 1. Most EXPENSIVE Country in Europe2. Bulgarian Drivers are Devils 3. Groceries are 40% more expensive than Asda UK4. Weather 45 from May to September5. Dogs The Villages are full of dogs and Bulgarians ...
@janecaruthersWow I live in rural Bulgaria in the North West and judging by your post you liked the Rakia and took it home with you ! Read More
Bank account by Mark_92
Hi everyone,I’m new in Bulgaria (Plovdiv). Spent 1,5 weeks in Sofia but want to settle down in Plovdiv long-term. Currently still using airbnb but i’m looking for a more permanent solution.The question i have is as followed: i tried ...
@janemulberryGood luck Jane, when I went through the D Visa process, UBB were great here in Vratsa but i guess now with the new security checks it can be a lot tougher. Read More
Bank account by Mark_92
Hi everyone,I’m new in Bulgaria (Plovdiv). Spent 1,5 weeks in Sofia but want to settle down in Plovdiv long-term. Currently still using airbnb but i’m looking for a more permanent solution.The question i have is as followed: i tried ...
@janemulberryRe a Bulgarian bank account for residency, have you tried being introduced by a person of good standing, eg an Advocate, this can make a world of difference. Read More
Bank account by Mark_92
Hi everyone,I’m new in Bulgaria (Plovdiv). Spent 1,5 weeks in Sofia but want to settle down in Plovdiv long-term. Currently still using airbnb but i’m looking for a more permanent solution.The question i have is as followed: i tried ...
@janemulberryThe UK Revolut is a Ltd company and has its own GB IBAN whilst any accounts opened in Europe on the "Bulgarian" app are owned by Revolut UAB a Lithuanian company and as such are part of SEPA as are Wise accounts which have Belgian ... Read More
Bank account by Mark_92
Hi everyone,I’m new in Bulgaria (Plovdiv). Spent 1,5 weeks in Sofia but want to settle down in Plovdiv long-term. Currently still using airbnb but i’m looking for a more permanent solution.The question i have is as followed: i tried ...
@Mark_92 then why not use Revolut as now they are licensed in Bulgaria if its just for day to day banking ? Read More
Bank account by Mark_92
Hi everyone,I’m new in Bulgaria (Plovdiv). Spent 1,5 weeks in Sofia but want to settle down in Plovdiv long-term. Currently still using airbnb but i’m looking for a more permanent solution.The question i have is as followed: i tried ...
@an3895509 in the original posters case there is no need for a Bulgarian bank account if he is in employment but for retired D Visa applicants it is a requirement by Immigration to have a Bulgarian bank account. Read More
Bank account by Mark_92
Hi everyone,I’m new in Bulgaria (Plovdiv). Spent 1,5 weeks in Sofia but want to settle down in Plovdiv long-term. Currently still using airbnb but i’m looking for a more permanent solution.The question i have is as followed: i tried ...
@Mark_92Depends where you are from, you dont say if you have an EU passport to qualify for residency automatically for one. If you're from outside the EU, you cant just rock up and stay. That apart the enhanced security checks now will at the least ... Read More
renewal of residency permit by eugiebear
Hello guys, According to the GOV.UK we must apply for a new residency permit before 1 January 2022. Still, some Bulgarian sources say it must be done within this year. Any comments? Tnanks.
Yes as you can still be fined if you dont renew on time. Read More
renewal of residency permit by eugiebear
Hello guys, According to the GOV.UK we must apply for a new residency permit before 1 January 2022. Still, some Bulgarian sources say it must be done within this year. Any comments? Tnanks.
@joescottDepends on your local immigration, we were lucky to be here at our house near Vratsa when immigration turned up to do there checks after i applied for my D Visa last year. My partner, who speaks reasonable Bulgarian was cheeky enough to ask ... Read More
Burgundy EU British Passport by Grimsby girl
This may be more wishful thinking but, I still have a burgundy EU British passport. It is due to expire April 25 (I am aware you need to leave 6 months before this). Would I still be considered an EU citizen with this passport or, will I still ...
@Bhavnahttps://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/bulgaria/entry-requirements Read More
Burgundy EU British Passport by Grimsby girl
This may be more wishful thinking but, I still have a burgundy EU British passport. It is due to expire April 25 (I am aware you need to leave 6 months before this). Would I still be considered an EU citizen with this passport or, will I still ...
@BhavnaFrequent Asked Question on the Schengen visa ... https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/visa_waiver_faqs_en.pdf Read More
Burgundy EU British Passport by Grimsby girl
This may be more wishful thinking but, I still have a burgundy EU British passport. It is due to expire April 25 (I am aware you need to leave 6 months before this). Would I still be considered an EU citizen with this passport or, will I still ...
@Grimsby girlHi, Unfortunately its wishful thinking it no longer grants any EU benefits. Also be aware that Bulgaria strictly enforces the 10 years validity from date of issue rule, just in case you have any extra months added from your previous ... Read More
registering a UK car in the name of a company in bg by SandraW
Hi all,I bought a house near Haskovo post Brexit so had to set up a company. I am currently doing 90 day max visits with no plan to move permanently but have a UK registered car here that has an MOT on until Oct.I plan to try and register it in the ...
@grumpyoldbirdAs you're importing from France you should be ok, but if they say you need a Technotest then its a drag but I can point you in the right direction. Read More
Your neighbours in Bulgaria by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When you move in Bulgaria, relationships with your neighbours can play a vital role in your well-being and integration. Share your experiences of the interactions and routines that punctuate your daily life in Bulgaria: Tell us ...
@mrogers3That's the difference between "Good Faith" and "Malafide". Good faith is if someone believes a property to be abandoned and there is open posession. "Malafide" is taking posession by breaking any law, however there is a limit of claim back ... Read More
Your neighbours in Bulgaria by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When you move in Bulgaria, relationships with your neighbours can play a vital role in your well-being and integration. Share your experiences of the interactions and routines that punctuate your daily life in Bulgaria: Tell us ...
@mrogers3Yes it is law but there is Good Faith and Malafide Possession, also if the posessor breaks the law to gain entry you can seek to have it overturned. Read More
Your neighbours in Bulgaria by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When you move in Bulgaria, relationships with your neighbours can play a vital role in your well-being and integration. Share your experiences of the interactions and routines that punctuate your daily life in Bulgaria: Tell us ...
@janemulberryIt was on the edge of a very big village. Unfortunately it was left unchecked for 11yrs due to different circumstances. Read More
Your neighbours in Bulgaria by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When you move in Bulgaria, relationships with your neighbours can play a vital role in your well-being and integration. Share your experiences of the interactions and routines that punctuate your daily life in Bulgaria: Tell us ...
@philip MckaySee you and raise you a house. We had a whole house stolen in the NW, took every single tile, brick, fixtures and fittings. All that was left was the vehicle pit where the garage was and the well in the garden. Read More
registering a UK car in the name of a company in bg by SandraW
Hi all,I bought a house near Haskovo post Brexit so had to set up a company. I am currently doing 90 day max visits with no plan to move permanently but have a UK registered car here that has an MOT on until Oct.I plan to try and register it in the ...
Hi Sandra, was wondering how you got on? KAT Sofia would not accept my certificate of conformity that Renault issued, so had to pay 540 leva to get a technical test done then another 100 leva to get an exemption certificate issued by the Transport ... Read More
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 ...
Got mine last year in May, now on my 2nd year prolonged stay identity card. Read More
Using Revolut a business account? by CarlS1986
Hi all,I'm looking at the possibility of using Revolute business account for a company in Bulgaria, has anyone tried this? Or would I still need a Bulgarian bank account?I know Revolut works in Bulgaria from a recent trip, but just enquiring what ...
@Anastasija_gustIts ok I have UBB business and personal, and Revolut and Barclays in the UK. I think the original posters main issue will be what is acceptable and easier in Bulgarian Law. Read More
Using Revolut a business account? by CarlS1986
Hi all,I'm looking at the possibility of using Revolute business account for a company in Bulgaria, has anyone tried this? Or would I still need a Bulgarian bank account?I know Revolut works in Bulgaria from a recent trip, but just enquiring what ...
Revolut is now up and running in Bulgaria, but unlike UK accounts I dont think its deposited funds are guaranteed. One advantage is that they will now post your UK account cards from within BG, my new joint account ones arrived in five days by ... Read More
Situation in Bulgaria by Suzi Masterson
I’m not interested in the politics of this war.im at the point I’m ready to start the visa application for my family and myself. my brother cheeps in and says aren’t you worried if Russia invaded Bulgaria after ukrain??that ...
Im an hour from the border, I'll give you a ring if they ever get here! Read More
Impossible to open a bank account? by Chrisjo1
Came to Sofia a couple months ago and got a residence permit and am employed here. Went to UBB and Fibank. Filled the form for the pre application and KYC. Weeks have passed since and when I ask there still "additional checks" pending. Anyone else ...
Our friends in the UK and soon to be new neighbours here in BG opened their business account in August and theirs took less than two weeks. Admittedly my personal account was two years ago and my business account was 5 months ago. Read More