VillageLife
American looking for information about Bulgaria
Forum posts
96
About me
American
Registration: 20 July 2024
OMG fires raging across Bulgaria by Mrs Homemaker
https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/wildfires-rage-across-bulgaria-destroying-forests-homes-2025-07-27/Villages have been evacuated, So far no loss of life thank goodness Its just an awful state of affairs. I do hope everyone ...
Where should people avoid when buying?. South Yambol region and others?? Read More
Pre Brexit Residency Card Renewal by cyberescue1
So, the time has come to renew my 5 year, EU, pre Brexit, residency card and obtain a 10 year permanent residency one.... Well, that's what I thought, but bureaucracy in Bulgaria reigns...I received my existing card in October 2020, but the expiry ...
@cyberescue1 I think it's, you have to be married for at least 3 years AND already hold permanent residence status to them apply for citizenship. Read More
Pre Brexit Residency Card Renewal by cyberescue1
So, the time has come to renew my 5 year, EU, pre Brexit, residency card and obtain a 10 year permanent residency one.... Well, that's what I thought, but bureaucracy in Bulgaria reigns...I received my existing card in October 2020, but the expiry ...
@SimCityAT Agree with this. I think he is referring to the D marriage visa which I think you can get Permanent Residence after 3 years. Once they have their permanent residence (10 years) for at least 3 years and married for at least 3 years (there ... Read More
Internet - Sorry if this is a well worn question by wrightkarl
As part of the process of working out how we're going to relocate, I need to consider being able to continue working on line.Outside of the major towns and cities, what's internet speed and reliability like ? I know it's a big question with many ...
Worth checking for a good bus service. Then you can have the best of both worlds...village living but easy to pop into town when you need. Read More
Internet - Sorry if this is a well worn question by wrightkarl
As part of the process of working out how we're going to relocate, I need to consider being able to continue working on line.Outside of the major towns and cities, what's internet speed and reliability like ? I know it's a big question with many ...
Villages that satellite large towns should be good for Internet. I have been very impressed with the connections in villages. Shouldn't have any trouble, but good to double check of course before you buy anywhere. 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? 🙏
Any bank that is really good in English?. App can be changed to English etc? Read More
Coming by myself with just my dogs, plan a on selling everything by KennrLynn
Hi, I'm Kenner. Currently living in Missouri USA but dreaming of moving to Bulgaria as I am on Social security disability, and can barely afford to live in the US anymore. My plan is to pay the 8 years I have left on my property off early then ...
Welcome onboard Kenner. Good luck to you. Read More
Don't Miss The Boat! by JimJ
https://novinite.com/view_news.php?id=233456
@JimJ The one and the same. Our closest metropolis. In terms of property it's insane, but glad for the country and those who own property (especially in Sofia). Read More
Don't Miss The Boat! by JimJ
https://novinite.com/view_news.php?id=233456
I thought this was about the new (well to be new) direct boat service from Burgas to Istanbul. It feels like they promise that this is "just about to begin" every year.....I am still waiting....I can't wait to sail across for some of that tasty ... Read More
Changes for listening to BBC audio outside the UK by SimCityAT
Earlier this year, BBC Studios launched a new audio service outside the UK on BBC.com and the BBC app. This includes BBC Radio 4, BBC World Service English and access to thousands of hours of podcasts.As part of the announcement, we said we planned ...
All hail the VPN Read More
Giurgui Bridge or Ferry? by jeanmandredeix
I am currently planning our trip home to arrange residency but we had a nightmare at Giurgui Bridge and every time I pass it always looks terrible no matter early or late. So, question is, is there a good time to get across it and if not, what are ...
@jeanmandredeix Is it too much of a detour to go via Vidin?. I've never driven it, always fly. Read More
Pomorie or Sveti Vlas or Sozopol for 12 months / permanent stay by Raizori
Hello everyone 👋, Could I get recommendations for full year living in those towns. I am not interested in nightlife much only chill stay. Do not mind crowds in beach in season. Ideally some fresh food from market restaurant open whole year ...
Agree with the recommendations for Burgas or Varna. If your looking to buy and live all year round but also want quick access to the beaches and sea, they are both great. Can always try to get a "cheap" studio in one of the resorts for summer and ... Read More
Looking forward to the Euro?? by VillageLife
I can presume the general consensus from some of the regulars here :) but let's see...I am curious....what are your thoughts about the imminent euro adoption?. Will you be sad to see the leva go?. Will it be easier for you using euros?.Any ...
@SimCityAT Sorry didn't see the others. Read More
Looking forward to the Euro?? by VillageLife
I can presume the general consensus from some of the regulars here :) but let's see...I am curious....what are your thoughts about the imminent euro adoption?. Will you be sad to see the leva go?. Will it be easier for you using euros?.Any ...
@gwynj Great answer...you've covered everything! Read More
Looking forward to the Euro??
I can presume the general consensus from some of the regulars here :) but let's see...I am curious....what are your thoughts about the imminent euro adoption?. Will you be sad to see the leva go?. Will it be easier for you using euros?.Any ... Read More
Price of a Square/M by paganini1x
Good evening for you I would like to know what is the the price of a square meter for building a house In a village near radnevo Thank you
Maybe 500 euros / m2 for a "rough build" and 1000 euros / m2 for finished (incl. flooring, bathrooms, kitchen etc). Read More
Anyone based in VT or Yambol area?! by Martin Adams
hi all, after my short trip to bulgaria i have found a few properties that i would love to view, however my next trip isnt for another month or so.is there anyone available who are based in these areas that might be able to assist with a viewing ...
We have a place in Yambol, but unfortunately not there at the moment. Read More
Travel to Odessa from Chisinau this June, 2025. by glennrmiller
Hi all! I will be traveling from the U.S. (Liberal/Democrat FYI) to Chisinau to visit and look for properties in Odessa. I am hoping to find some expatriate(s) in Odessa to provide travel information/advice/warnings/help. Best case would be to ...
How did it go, if you don't mind me asking?. I am also interested in Odessa property. Read More
Getting a Bulgarian Passport - Naturalisation by VillageLife
I am not that far away from meeting the criteria...married (to Bulgarian citizen) + holding permanent for 3 years. I don't have to give up my existing citizenship because I am married to a Bulgarian citizen (allowed dual citizenship, as I understand ...
@Vasilev Thanks Vasilev. This is very useful. I was worried as I don't really have any documents as proof of living in Bulgaria (other than my permanent residence). No health care records, no bills, no tenancy, no taxes etc. I was worried that could ... Read More
Getting a Bulgarian Passport - Naturalisation
I am not that far away from meeting the criteria...married (to Bulgarian citizen) + holding permanent for 3 years. I don't have to give up my existing citizenship because I am married to a Bulgarian citizen (allowed dual citizenship, as I understand ... Read More
Affordable homes in Bulgaria by GuestPoster107789
Hi there,try looking for a web Called propertiesunder 40k.good luck.
Hahah agreed. Bargains potentially to be had from buying off other foreigners (who might not be fully clued up on recent price rises) and just want to get rid of their house. Read More
Affordable homes in Bulgaria by GuestPoster107789
Hi there,try looking for a web Called propertiesunder 40k.good luck.
@JimJ What your view on Imot or Alo etc? Read More
Affordable homes in Bulgaria by GuestPoster107789
Hi there,try looking for a web Called propertiesunder 40k.good luck.
Exactly what Jane says...if the site has the ability to filter when the ad was listed best to use that. Some have very old ads at "old" prices. Read More
Why are so many properties for sale in such poor condition ? by GuestPoster339876
I've got my eye seriously planted on a particular location right now, but I've been perusing around other places to see if I can find better deals, but... oof!Edit: I know Bulgaria is quite poor. That's not the answer to my question. I am talking ...
Alo (dot bg) or Imot (dot bg) are also worth looking at. Use your browser to live translate the page, Google does this well. These sites are not "aimed at foreigners" if you are really finding "oof" prices - but as others have said Bulgaria prices ... Read More
UK to Bulgaria - send belongings or no? by GuestPoster339876
I'm struggling with the logistics of sending my belongings from the UK to Bulgaria when I move.It'll be things like general household goods (1-2 pieces of flatpacked furniture, clothes, bedding, books etc - no big white goods like fridge etc) and a ...
Agree with Jane. As well as the Facebook groups (which I am not good with) you could go on Google maps and search Bulgaria shop/store near where you are in the UK. If there is one not too far then give them a call and ask if they do a lorry delivery ... Read More
Paperwork needed ID and passport by geraldine21
hi does anyone know what paperwork is needed to change my 10 year ID, to my 10 year passport thank you
@janemulberry I think your right, they must mean this I am going to try to do this in a couple of years and see what happens (I might give up if it's too difficult). I am married to a Bulgarian, so won't need to give up my UK passport. Read More
Sharing Property Search Feedback by JimJ
We get lots of requests for advice about areas that people are considering but very little, if any, feedback on how those searches are going, what the searchers did/didn't like when they got there, what real condition the properties are in ...
@JimJ Yes, prices have risen for building by the looks of it. We have been quoted between 500 to 1k euro per square meter (higher price including full finish and also kitchen/bathrooms installed etc). Obviously varies depending on quality and what ... Read More
Sharing Property Search Feedback by JimJ
We get lots of requests for advice about areas that people are considering but very little, if any, feedback on how those searches are going, what the searchers did/didn't like when they got there, what real condition the properties are in ...
@janemulberry Totally!. For us Bulgaria has never been for an investment. Read More
Sharing Property Search Feedback by JimJ
We get lots of requests for advice about areas that people are considering but very little, if any, feedback on how those searches are going, what the searchers did/didn't like when they got there, what real condition the properties are in ...
Just to add to the prices debate...we bought a wreck (rebuild job) with about 400 square meters of garden in the "ideal" centre of a smaller city....just under 5 years ago for €30k. We've done absolutely nothing with it since. Looking at ... Read More
Sharing Property Search Feedback by JimJ
We get lots of requests for advice about areas that people are considering but very little, if any, feedback on how those searches are going, what the searchers did/didn't like when they got there, what real condition the properties are in ...
I am really curious how the current price rises will impact those buying, who is buying, where they are buying etc. I presume back in the day there were quite a few buyers that really didn't do any research at all, because the prices were so ... Read More
Travel from the uk by car by allenredfearn7
Hi everyone, I'm driving out for the first time in July, to get our renovation project underway. Having spent time ripping out last year we start the renewing this year. The route from the uk shows the quickest way across and throughSerbia. are ...
Agreed, schengen has got to be the easiest way these days (no checks). Read More
Anyone in or around Obzor by VillageLife
We are thinking of getting a town house in the center of Obzor. Just wondering if anyone else owns here or near by or has any thoughts/comments on Obzor?.
Ah thanks. I didn't know that. Read More
Anyone in or around Obzor
We are thinking of getting a town house in the center of Obzor. Just wondering if anyone else owns here or near by or has any thoughts/comments on Obzor?. 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 ...
I don't like the constant tailgating here, seriously......the road is empty and the dude behind is trying to ride the slipstream. Other than that its all good.... Read More
We will be there soon! by Julio Manu
Hi, my name is Julio. I’m Cuban but currently living in Costa Rica. My wife (Manuela) is Bulgarian–Costa Rican, and we are planning to move to Bulgaria next year. Right now, we are dealing with a lot of paperwork to obtain my visa and ...
Hola Julio,Going to be an awesome adventure man. Hope everything works out for you both. Read More
Bulgaria Schengen Borders by alanjolly65
I understand that Bulgaria (and Romania) became full Schengen members in January and agreed that checks would still be in place at land borders until July 2025.What difference has it made? Are there still barriers / checking booths in place or a car ...
Seen a story about Ruse getting a boost from Romanians coming over."Bulgarian border city Ruse hails Schengen tourism boom""Since Bulgaria and Romania fully joined Europe's Schengen open-borders zone last year, the border city of Ruse has seen a ... Read More
Bargain Hunting? by JimJ
I see that Mowlem Bulgaria are doing a "Three For £30k*" feature at the moment - might be worth a look for those members who are still looking for a cheap property....*That's £30k each, before anyone gets TOO excited.....😁
@janemulberry Hahaha yes - spot on! That's the only reason we found out. Read More
Bargain Hunting? by JimJ
I see that Mowlem Bulgaria are doing a "Three For £30k*" feature at the moment - might be worth a look for those members who are still looking for a cheap property....*That's £30k each, before anyone gets TOO excited.....😁
@janemulberryWell it was actually in really bad shape, but its in the ideal centre of a largish town so I guess it's appealing. Read More
External Staircase - Remove?
Hi All, I wondered what the general view here is about external staircases have most of you removed them and installed internal staircases?. Or have you learnt to live and embrace it?. Read More
Bargain Hunting? by JimJ
I see that Mowlem Bulgaria are doing a "Three For £30k*" feature at the moment - might be worth a look for those members who are still looking for a cheap property....*That's £30k each, before anyone gets TOO excited.....😁
@janemulberryWe had someone move themselves into our abandoned house but the neighbors alerted us and then we called and paid for SOT. Read More
Interesting Discussion about "Neighbours"... by JimJ
...on the Facebook group "Moving to Bulgaria". Not for the faint-hearted or those intending to leave their property unoccupied for any length of time.... 😱
Luckily us folk in the provinces dont have anything of value in our houses anyway. Read More
Interesting Discussion about "Neighbours"... by JimJ
...on the Facebook group "Moving to Bulgaria". Not for the faint-hearted or those intending to leave their property unoccupied for any length of time.... 😱
That's why everyone needs COT and a tall walls. Read More
Decision to buy made - the next step? by jeanmandredeix
Well, we came to see if we liked it and we did. Found a house after a few days of excellent travel agents help.We do plan to live here permanently but have a few months of things to do in UK.Would you recommend applying for retirement D Visa now or ...
Awesome!. Out of interest what made you decide on somewhere near Ruse?. Read More
Online jobs …. by Tessamy
Looking for a simple online job. I am based in Bulgaria. Only need to earn about 100/150 a week. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.
I don't have any experience but have met a few people doing this.If your from the UK and still have an address (or can use one) + UK bank account, one option could be to apply for a fully remote job, as if your based in the UK. Try one of the big ... Read More
Baba Marta video live - for anyone interested by S25 - Sean
Dunno if this chat will allow link sharing. My last post spoke of Baba Marta and a few people were interested in the topic. Uploaded the YouTube video sharing my experience in Jambol. I'm not the best at doing videos, but I gave it a go. Future ...
30 or so mins drive to the dream city that is Yambol is perfect. Read More
Baba Marta video live - for anyone interested by S25 - Sean
Dunno if this chat will allow link sharing. My last post spoke of Baba Marta and a few people were interested in the topic. Uploaded the YouTube video sharing my experience in Jambol. I'm not the best at doing videos, but I gave it a go. Future ...
It was the 21st - 23rd of June last year in the park. It had music and BBQ and other events etc. It was called "BiriManjaro". I got the t-shirt!. Is you house not far from the town?. Read More
Baba Marta video live - for anyone interested by S25 - Sean
Dunno if this chat will allow link sharing. My last post spoke of Baba Marta and a few people were interested in the topic. Uploaded the YouTube video sharing my experience in Jambol. I'm not the best at doing videos, but I gave it a go. Future ...
Great video. Yambol had an epic craft beer festival last summer, really hoping they repeat it this year. Read More
Don't say you weren't warned.. by JimJ
There's an elephant in the room when it comes to people upping sticks and blithely heading to their new Shangri-la in Bulgaria, and I wonder just how much thought people have given to exactly what they might be letting themselves in for.There's an ...
Certainly going to continue to be a bumpy ride to adopting the euro in Bulgaria. Easy for third parties to stoke the divisive flames. Read More
Mild winters in the south BG?: camping -6 tonight by S25 - Sean
If you have read any of my recent posts (many offered great advice and help) all I can say right now is 🥶🥶🥶❄️☃️ brrr!Hot summers and milder winter in the south near Turkey "they" say... YouTube and ...
@S25 - Sean Ahh Yambol, I am Jealous. I think it has one of the best walking streets with bars and some great restaurants. If you haven't already been, go check out restaurant ponoti (comes up as kitchen and bar ponoti on Google maps). Read More
Question: Bulgarian citizenship? by OrientalPlovdiv
Has anyone successfully naturalised to become a Bulgarian citizen?I am planning to naturalise to become a Bulgarian citizen in future after obtaining the permanent residence in Bulgaria because it seems that UK is not planning to rejoin EU. Can ...
@janemulberry This was exactly my thoughts with the written test. A bit of targeted studying, based on the examples on the internet, and actually one could scrape a pass without proficiency in Bulgarian. Read More
Question: Bulgarian citizenship? by OrientalPlovdiv
Has anyone successfully naturalised to become a Bulgarian citizen?I am planning to naturalise to become a Bulgarian citizen in future after obtaining the permanent residence in Bulgaria because it seems that UK is not planning to rejoin EU. Can ...
@SimCityAT Agreed a really interesting point.Would be interesting to hear from an lawyer?. Read More
Question: Bulgarian citizenship? by OrientalPlovdiv
Has anyone successfully naturalised to become a Bulgarian citizen?I am planning to naturalise to become a Bulgarian citizen in future after obtaining the permanent residence in Bulgaria because it seems that UK is not planning to rejoin EU. Can ...
@OrientalPlovdivJust out of curiosity, would you have to give up your current citizenship (passport) or are you lucky and fall into one of the exemptions (e.g already an EU citizen or married to a Bulgarian Citizen?). For me, if I had to renounce ... Read More
Question: Bulgarian citizenship? by OrientalPlovdiv
Has anyone successfully naturalised to become a Bulgarian citizen?I am planning to naturalise to become a Bulgarian citizen in future after obtaining the permanent residence in Bulgaria because it seems that UK is not planning to rejoin EU. Can ...
Changing the topic, and to offer a different opinion (although I can already imagine the usual responses . In terms of the language criteria, the written multiple choice test doesn't seem too prohibitive. Looking at the examples, they seem to follow ... Read More
Question: Bulgarian citizenship? by OrientalPlovdiv
Has anyone successfully naturalised to become a Bulgarian citizen?I am planning to naturalise to become a Bulgarian citizen in future after obtaining the permanent residence in Bulgaria because it seems that UK is not planning to rejoin EU. Can ...
@JimJHaha - at this point I think your just playing with me. We are obviously talking about being married to a Bulgarian citizen (as per what I pasted from the Bulgarian law a couple of times)Anyway.....hopefully it helps some people on this forum ... Read More
Question: Bulgarian citizenship? by OrientalPlovdiv
Has anyone successfully naturalised to become a Bulgarian citizen?I am planning to naturalise to become a Bulgarian citizen in future after obtaining the permanent residence in Bulgaria because it seems that UK is not planning to rejoin EU. Can ...
@JimJ Its definitely not a recent change :). And also not uncommon. Hopefully it helps someone. (2) No release from their previous citizenship shall be required for:1. persons – spouses of Bulgarian citizens;2. citizens of a Member State of ... Read More
Question: Bulgarian citizenship? by OrientalPlovdiv
Has anyone successfully naturalised to become a Bulgarian citizen?I am planning to naturalise to become a Bulgarian citizen in future after obtaining the permanent residence in Bulgaria because it seems that UK is not planning to rejoin EU. Can ...
@SimCityAT Wrong!!Bulgaria permits dual citizenship only for native-born citizens, citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland, countries in a reciprocity agreement with Bulgaria, as well as spouses of Bulgarian citizens. Naturalised citizens who prove ... Read More
Question: Bulgarian citizenship? by OrientalPlovdiv
Has anyone successfully naturalised to become a Bulgarian citizen?I am planning to naturalise to become a Bulgarian citizen in future after obtaining the permanent residence in Bulgaria because it seems that UK is not planning to rejoin EU. Can ...
@JimJ I understand there are some exemptions for not having to renounce your other nationalities. For example, if you are married, I believe you don't have to. Read More
Property purchase international credit transfer - HOW? by S25 - Sean
Hey everyone, I need advice about something so simple the world makes it complicated. Imagine the situation, you find a house to buy (deciding between 4 or 5 to buy 1). You can pay cash via revolut app for the purchase. GREAT!BUTThe 2500 Euros worth ...
@gwynj What are your views on IMOT or Alo (dot bg) or other similar sites where agents or private sellers post houses for sale?. Read More
Full Schengen is Coming Soon? (fingers crossed) by VillageLife
Austria lifts long-held veto on the Schengen accession of Romania and Bulgaria!I am super excited for this, it will be great to travel to Greece without having to stop. Presume a lot of the village roads will be extended to connect up across the ...
@cyberescue1 Most of this forum are migrants from western Europe:) Read More
Full Schengen is Coming Soon? (fingers crossed) by VillageLife
Austria lifts long-held veto on the Schengen accession of Romania and Bulgaria!I am super excited for this, it will be great to travel to Greece without having to stop. Presume a lot of the village roads will be extended to connect up across the ...
@johnjameson1959 I am interested to see to what extent....and if frequency of spot checks will get relaxed after the 6 months etc. Anyway it's fantastic news!!. Read More
Traspasso Visa Question by VillageLife
Hi All,Quick question. I've applied for the traspasso for my R visa but from abroad. When it's approved (fingers crossed) does anyone know how long I have before I have to travel to Colombia to go to migracion?. I read it might be different if you ...
@georgesbigg Thanks I saw this..but doesn't say if there is a time limit for how long it could be before your enter. Read More
Traspasso Visa Question by VillageLife
Hi All,Quick question. I've applied for the traspasso for my R visa but from abroad. When it's approved (fingers crossed) does anyone know how long I have before I have to travel to Colombia to go to migracion?. I read it might be different if you ...
No worries, thanks for checking. I am hoping I don't need a last minute flight...but not looking hopeful. Read More
Traspasso Visa Question by VillageLife
Hi All,Quick question. I've applied for the traspasso for my R visa but from abroad. When it's approved (fingers crossed) does anyone know how long I have before I have to travel to Colombia to go to migracion?. I read it might be different if you ...
Oh sorry it's a traspasso for my residents R visa. I was hoping it was 2 weeks from when I entered the country. Read More
Question: Residence permit + Time in the country by CarlS1986
As the title say's,If you apply for a residence permit, but work around the world as a Seafarer / merchant mariner, would this hinder you getting a residence permit? I'm not in the process, but it's something I'm looking into for future income. I ...
Agree with what gwynj said at the end of his post. Even though the title is "resident" or "permanent" residence visa, you can have more than one across many different countries. You just have to maintain the minimum in country presence (if any). For ... Read More
Traspasso Visa Question
Hi All,Quick question. I've applied for the traspasso for my R visa but from abroad. When it's approved (fingers crossed) does anyone know how long I have before I have to travel to Colombia to go to migracion?. I read it might be different if you ... Read More
Full Schengen is Coming Soon? (fingers crossed) by VillageLife
Austria lifts long-held veto on the Schengen accession of Romania and Bulgaria!I am super excited for this, it will be great to travel to Greece without having to stop. Presume a lot of the village roads will be extended to connect up across the ...
@SimCityAT Haha thanks! And don't forget....watch out for the boogeyman!!.:) Read More
Full Schengen is Coming Soon? (fingers crossed) by VillageLife
Austria lifts long-held veto on the Schengen accession of Romania and Bulgaria!I am super excited for this, it will be great to travel to Greece without having to stop. Presume a lot of the village roads will be extended to connect up across the ...
Thanks for the long response, interesting read. Read More
Transport belongings to Bulgaria by 71terrythetree
Hi everyone,My wife ( who is Bulgarian), 2 kids, a cat and me are all planning to move to Plodiv Bulgaria next year from Colchester UK. I am wondering what you all think is the best way to do the logistics ( we have a lot of stuff). I can rent a 7.5 ...
@janemulberryJust contact your local expat Bulgarian food shop in the UK and ask if they have a truck going to Bulgaria (or vice versa). The last one we did collected from house in Bulgaria then we collected from the shop here. Read More
Full Schengen is Coming Soon? (fingers crossed) by VillageLife
Austria lifts long-held veto on the Schengen accession of Romania and Bulgaria!I am super excited for this, it will be great to travel to Greece without having to stop. Presume a lot of the village roads will be extended to connect up across the ...
Hahaha well I will get my coat.....Sounds like I am the only one looking forward to fixed boarder controls being removed (and hopefully more connections/routes between neighboring counties...and a few more international trains a day maybe). ... Read More
Transport belongings to Bulgaria by 71terrythetree
Hi everyone,My wife ( who is Bulgarian), 2 kids, a cat and me are all planning to move to Plodiv Bulgaria next year from Colchester UK. I am wondering what you all think is the best way to do the logistics ( we have a lot of stuff). I can rent a 7.5 ...
We constantly send stuff back and forth via local Bulgarian shops. Was recently quoted 1.5 euros a kilo to send stuff back to Bulgaria (from Ireland to address in Bulgaria). Probably has limits for large items but good for clothes, books and other ... Read More
Full Schengen is Coming Soon? (fingers crossed) by VillageLife
Austria lifts long-held veto on the Schengen accession of Romania and Bulgaria!I am super excited for this, it will be great to travel to Greece without having to stop. Presume a lot of the village roads will be extended to connect up across the ...
@JimJ All EU citizens are entitled to freedom of movement - it's a given right (same for other similar freedom of movement schemes across the globe). Read More
Full Schengen is Coming Soon? (fingers crossed) by VillageLife
Austria lifts long-held veto on the Schengen accession of Romania and Bulgaria!I am super excited for this, it will be great to travel to Greece without having to stop. Presume a lot of the village roads will be extended to connect up across the ...
Sounds like you guys don't want Schengen :) Read More
Full Schengen is Coming Soon? (fingers crossed) by VillageLife
Austria lifts long-held veto on the Schengen accession of Romania and Bulgaria!I am super excited for this, it will be great to travel to Greece without having to stop. Presume a lot of the village roads will be extended to connect up across the ...
Hahaha, agree especially these days with politics. However I think we will be good, let's see in the new year!. Read More
Full Schengen is Coming Soon? (fingers crossed) by VillageLife
Austria lifts long-held veto on the Schengen accession of Romania and Bulgaria!I am super excited for this, it will be great to travel to Greece without having to stop. Presume a lot of the village roads will be extended to connect up across the ...
@JimJ It's not the waiting. Just looking forward to not even thinking about it when crossing back and forth the "boarders". Read More
Full Schengen is Coming Soon? (fingers crossed)
Austria lifts long-held veto on the Schengen accession of Romania and Bulgaria!I am super excited for this, it will be great to travel to Greece without having to stop. Presume a lot of the village roads will be extended to connect up across the ... Read More
Buying from a car dealership by Chris G-F
Hey all, this is a great community am happy to be a part of it! My question is about buying a car. I am an American/Austrian Citizen moving to Bulgaria with my wife who is Bulgarian. What is the process in buying a new car? I have an American ...
@gwynj Presume you are suggesting he goes down the D visa route, as a spouse, instead of EU route (dual US/Austrian citizen) because he could get permanent residence faster 3 years vs 5?. Read More
Some PRAISE for Bulgaria! by gwynj
I mentioned these in passing in other posts, but they're very positive articles worth highlighting separately.The 21 most underrated travel destinations in Europe for 2025This is a Time Out article (which gets mentioned in the Daily Mail) with ...
Love this!!. Some times as expats it's easy to focus on the negatives and forget why we are here!. Read More
Residency Card by Kath948381
My card runs out in February of next year when should I go to get it replaced and should I take all the paperwork I had to take last time?
@VillageLifeFor clarity it was the owner of the property signing a declaration that I lived there...or something like that. Read More
Residency Card by Kath948381
My card runs out in February of next year when should I go to get it replaced and should I take all the paperwork I had to take last time?
I am not sure about the D visa process as I registered before the end of the Brexit transition period. However I had someone just sign to say I lived at their house (didn't need an actual contract or details of how much rent etc). Read More
Some tips for future/new expats in Bulgaria by DutchExpatVarna
Hello,My name is Erwin, originally from the Netherlands, but a Varna resident for almost 23 years (and counting).I have been mostly lurking on this forum, however I see on a regular basis posts from people who are planning to move to Bulgaria or ...
Agree with how easy it is these days to get by with just English. Read More
Visa via my Son (Colombian)
A very random question, me and my wife are both British (British passports only). However our son also has a Colombian passport (he was born there when we lived there).We are looking at options to relocate to Argentina. Does anyone know if via the ... Read More
Residency Card by Kath948381
My card runs out in February of next year when should I go to get it replaced and should I take all the paperwork I had to take last time?
@JimJ Wow! And you didn't have any other previous residency cards before the 5 year one?. Read More
Residency Card by Kath948381
My card runs out in February of next year when should I go to get it replaced and should I take all the paperwork I had to take last time?
@Kath948381 When does your current resident card expire?. I was told you can renew/apply for new residence up to 1 month before your current card expires. Read More
Real estate investment in Bulgaria by Boris-Gleb
My partner and I are now living part time in Varna for almost 3 years. We are looking for regular income on top of our pension. It could be wise if anyone had experienced local market. Purpose is to buy one or two flats and rent it. One of the main ...
If your looking for the kind of gains experienced in Bulgaria over the last years it might be better to look 200-300 miles north along the black sea... although there is a war going on. Read More
Residency Card by Kath948381
My card runs out in February of next year when should I go to get it replaced and should I take all the paperwork I had to take last time?
@Kath948381I had to fill out a new form (but it seemed to be the exact same form as last time). Showed bank, EHIC and proof of address. Read More
Residency Card by Kath948381
My card runs out in February of next year when should I go to get it replaced and should I take all the paperwork I had to take last time?
I replaced my 5 year residency for the "10 years" a few months ago (brit). I had to show a bank statement (well actually it was just a page saying I had an account), proof of address and insurance (I had an old EHIC that had one day left!...said ... Read More
90 day rule - what haven't I thought of? by janemulberry
Hubby is getting increasingly impatient with the wait for us to legally move to Bulgaria once I get my state pension and can qualify for the D visa. Now TRO is more difficult, and we haven't magicked up enough cash to get in on property investment, ...
I've never heard someone do this before but sounds like a good solution :). Are there many Brits in rural North Turkey houses?. 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 ...
@grahamstark1I am not sure what absences are allowed before you could technically loose permanent residence card (although with air Schengen it might be hard to prove you hadn't been there). I have a permanent residence from another country (non ... 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 ...
@SimCityATYes makes sense thanks! 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 ...
@SimCityATAwesome thanks. That is what I thought but whenever I search on Google it seems to say if you are a permanent resident you need to exchange. I guess there is a difference between having permanent residence (permanent resident card/visa ... Read More
Driving License Question
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 ... 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 ...
@grahamstark1Thanks for the detailed explanation. 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 ...
I don't think this is correct. Is it really to do with the visa you hold or just the amount of days you spend there? @Diegres If you're a permanent resident of Bulgaria, ie you hold a Permanent Residence card or.......you're liable to pay tax on ... Read More
Medical Certificate - Driving License by Snowball6
Hi allI need to exchange my UK license for a Bulgarian one. I have not registered with a Dr so how do I go about getting a Fit To Drive Certificate?
Can we still exchange our UK licenses? What's the process? Read More
Postal service to Bulgaria by Jules999
Is anybody else having problems receiving post to Bulgaria? When I say problems, I'm mainly talking about the time its taking to arrive from the UK. I was sent a card on the 17th April & I'm still waiting for it! Prior to Brexit, some things ...
Not related to letters but do you guys use delivery services, mostly used by Bulgarian expats?. For example, they pick up from a Bulgarian food shop in the UK and deliver to your local econt/speedy etc. They are usually pretty cheap (price is per ... Read More
Multiple entry and exit time limits by denerobt
Good afternoon everyone,I work in the UK and have Bulgarian residency. I tend to spend a month at a time between the Uk & BG.akin to the Schengen limits, is there a limit or 180 day rolling limit on the time I can spend OUT of BG without putting ...
If it helps, I also signed up before the end of the transition period. Just exchanged my 5 years for the permanent 10 years and wasn't asked about my time in BG. Very lucky to have got it, as I didn't spend much time in BG over the 5 years. Read More