Jean
@jeanmandredeix
English looking for information about Bulgaria
Forum posts
193
Contacts
4
About me
English
Speaks French
Registration: 08 January 2025
How do you manage if your car breaks down by jeanmandredeix
Just a general query here out if interested.Our van recently wouldn’t start, charged battery, still no joy. Hubby decided it most likely was the starter motor. This is a Sunday. So, we only have the van and we had taken out breakdown cover ...
@janemulberry Well to conclude, it’s going to sound like a comedy sketch.They phoned and his dad picked us up. Arrived at garage, son had gone home with van key in pocket. Dad returns home to collect it. Go to pay and we were out of cash being ... Read More
UK/NZ to new life in Bulgarian. by Bizet Cottage
Hi everyone! 😊My husband and I are originally from the UK and New Zealand, and we’re currently living in New Zealand until my husband retires.We’ve recently purchased a home in the Pavlikeni Municipality, and we can’t wait ...
@Zooldrool They are a lovely couple aren’t they. I like their vlogs. Read More
Moving around in Bulgaria by stephen100gok
Been in Bulgaria for nearly 20 years and have been in 15 places to live and finally bought a house but renovating it proved to hard so I went on holiday and have not returned yet till I decide what to do and that has been 2 years now so I decided to ...
If you haven’t found someone in all that time then it’s highly unlikely you will now. Does sound like you are looking for a convenience relationship and even if you are real. Surely you could have learnt a reasonable amount of the ... Read More
How do you manage if your car breaks down by jeanmandredeix
Just a general query here out if interested.Our van recently wouldn’t start, charged battery, still no joy. Hubby decided it most likely was the starter motor. This is a Sunday. So, we only have the van and we had taken out breakdown cover ...
The saga continues. It started first time and we drove to Silistra, loaded the shopping and wouldn't start. Went through the same process as yesterday, twice, but nothing. Done Google search for a garage, fortunately one 5 minutes walk. He came back ... Read More
How do you manage if your car breaks down
Just a general query here out if interested.Our van recently wouldn’t start, charged battery, still no joy. Hubby decided it most likely was the starter motor. This is a Sunday. So, we only have the van and we had taken out breakdown cover ... Read More
Company query by jeanmandredeix
We are here on Visa D retirement from UK and I have noticed that our electricity and water bills are in the dormant company name.Is this correct? Or should it be in my name?
I went through online banking again and this months bill has been paid yet no mention of the unpaid one 😂 I tried to do it through the website but it said no details. Read More
Company query by jeanmandredeix
We are here on Visa D retirement from UK and I have noticed that our electricity and water bills are in the dormant company name.Is this correct? Or should it be in my name?
My electricity bills were being paid easily by the bank automatically until last month then it stopped so I am assuming I have to restart it annually. Hey ho, getting used to things here is an experience 😂 Read More
Company query by jeanmandredeix
We are here on Visa D retirement from UK and I have noticed that our electricity and water bills are in the dormant company name.Is this correct? Or should it be in my name?
@janemulberryThats pretty much the same as ours. Our water bill is not a lot. I think it was €15 for 4cu and we have been using a lot more water than normal with concrete and mortar mixes. The weird collection for water payment is a monthly ... Read More
Company query
We are here on Visa D retirement from UK and I have noticed that our electricity and water bills are in the dormant company name.Is this correct? Or should it be in my name? Read More
Current vs old pension letter-D visa/residence permit renewal by Sleep Near
Hello, I am looking for some information re: renewing the D visa and using the original apostilled pension letter. Do you need a new letter every time you renew the D visa/ residence permit?
@Sleep NearIt’s probably a safer bet, but it does vary from office to office. They barely glanced at the pension info at our one. Read More
Current vs old pension letter-D visa/residence permit renewal by Sleep Near
Hello, I am looking for some information re: renewing the D visa and using the original apostilled pension letter. Do you need a new letter every time you renew the D visa/ residence permit?
It certainly seems to vary from office to office. We were told to present the old one each year. Our office were only interested in the bank balance. Read More
Question on Company by jeanmandredeix
We have just changed our company to Euros but I do have a couple of questions in regard to utilities.Do you have to pay business rates on water and electric if you have a dormant company?If you don’t, is there anywhere on facture to indicate ...
@JimJ Thanks Jim. We were going to wait for our residency card before we get a car so that sounds good.Our electricity bills seem quite expensive and were thinking about taking a translator to check if there was a problem with our bills. The last ... Read More
Question on Company
We have just changed our company to Euros but I do have a couple of questions in regard to utilities.Do you have to pay business rates on water and electric if you have a dormant company?If you don’t, is there anywhere on facture to indicate ... Read More
Bought in Bulgaria — and then what? The gap nobody prepares you for by Andreas0172
Most of the conversation on this forum — quite rightly — focuses on buying: lawyers, notaries, due diligence, price negotiation, which areas to consider.What gets almost no attention is what happens the day after completion.You own a ...
@SimCityAT He isn't working here and wouldn't want to. He's retired. We stayed at a bnb during our first visit where they had done the electrics badly and put in UK plugs/system. That was dangerous. Read More
Off topic - whats on your mind? by SimCityAT
As with a lot of Forums, there are dedicated posts in which members can talk about anything. They generally are for just chit-chat and as the Bulgaria Forum has a high volume of participants it's about time it had its own. You still have to abide by ...
@Aidan in HCMC Wonder what life expectancy comparisons would show? Read More
Bought in Bulgaria — and then what? The gap nobody prepares you for by Andreas0172
Most of the conversation on this forum — quite rightly — focuses on buying: lawyers, notaries, due diligence, price negotiation, which areas to consider.What gets almost no attention is what happens the day after completion.You own a ...
@JimJ My husband is also a fully qualified Artisan French electrician. He studied the Norms for 6 months before we moved there, worked solidly for 9 years with mostly French clients (including a certain Chateau that was featured on Channel 4) and he ... Read More
Bought in Bulgaria — and then what? The gap nobody prepares you for by Andreas0172
Most of the conversation on this forum — quite rightly — focuses on buying: lawyers, notaries, due diligence, price negotiation, which areas to consider.What gets almost no attention is what happens the day after completion.You own a ...
Personally we would not have considered hiring anyone remotely. There are too many horror stories. I think a high percentage of us buy places where we can do the work ourselves. In our case we had renovated a house in France, my husband is a fully ... Read More
Lintels - Where can We buy them? by jeanmandredeix
We are having trouble sourcing lintels and also acrows. We are in the north east. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks, Got the lintels from our local builders merchants. Managed to borrow accrows too. Read More
D visa cost by Kath948381
Can anyone tell me what he cost of getting a D visa in the north of England so someone can reunite with family in Bulgaria
The problem isn’t the physical cost of the Visa but all the related costs. The ACRO £95, translation, notary and apostilles. Then travel to London and back twice. Ours have totalled with travel and a flight £3k approx per person ... Read More
Lintels - Where can We buy them?
We are having trouble sourcing lintels and also acrows. We are in the north east. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Read More
builders in bulgaria by twinklecaz
We have bought a property in Dobrina and have been using a Bulgarian lad to do the work on our house when we are not there. Unfortunately the standards of his work recently have been a bit lacking maybe due to his present personal problems. Is there ...
Not restricted to Bulgaria sadly. Perhaps standards across Europe have slipped. My husband worked as an electrician in France for 9 years and some of his work was correcting major messes that others had done. Good tradesmen are like gold dust across ... Read More
Suggestions for a short break? by jeanmandredeix
Has anyone got a suggestion for an area for a short break on the coast? Somewhere that is quiet and polar opposite to Sunny Beach? Would like to do a short break with the dog before summer arrives. Thanks.
@SimCityATThanks, that’s nicely detailed. Read More
Suggestions for a short break? by jeanmandredeix
Has anyone got a suggestion for an area for a short break on the coast? Somewhere that is quiet and polar opposite to Sunny Beach? Would like to do a short break with the dog before summer arrives. Thanks.
@JimJ😂 Another time as we would like somewhere that isn’t too far driving. Greece is a favourite destination. We have a crazy dog which always complicates things here as I try to find places with the least amount of dogs. Read More
Changing company account to Euros by Jules999
Is it true that now we are in the Euro currency, any company accounts ( even non trading ) must be changed & registered as a Euro currency account? There seems to be some confusion within my circle of friends.
@Jules999We have just changed to Euros through our immigration lawyer but there does seem to be some confusion. Read More
Suggestions for a short break?
Has anyone got a suggestion for an area for a short break on the coast? Somewhere that is quiet and polar opposite to Sunny Beach? Would like to do a short break with the dog before summer arrives. Thanks. Read More
Parking at Burgas Airport by jeanmandredeix
My husband is driving down to the airport and there seems to be parking on site but I couldn’t find anywhere to book in advance and it’s also a van so also thinking about height restrictions.Can anyone advise please. TIA.
@SimCityATThanks. That clarifies things. He’s having to make the trip just to pick up his Visa. Read More
Parking at Burgas Airport
My husband is driving down to the airport and there seems to be parking on site but I couldn’t find anywhere to book in advance and it’s also a van so also thinking about height restrictions.Can anyone advise please. TIA. Read More
Bulgarian Dance Events in the NE? by jeanmandredeix
Can anyone tell me how I can find out about events? There is nothing in my village that happens and Silistra is probably closest.Restaurants that have Bulgarian dancing or village events? When I get a bit better organised here I would like to join a ...
@SimCityATNo, the posters put up at cafe mostly refer to advertising for beer offers 😃 Read More
Bulgarian Dance Events in the NE? by jeanmandredeix
Can anyone tell me how I can find out about events? There is nothing in my village that happens and Silistra is probably closest.Restaurants that have Bulgarian dancing or village events? When I get a bit better organised here I would like to join a ...
@janemulberryI searched for a local FB group but I couldn’t find anything at all for the north east. Might have to search in Bulgarian and see if I get better luck. Our village certainly doesn’t seem at all like the others I read about. ... Read More
Banking with Wise - update by cyberescue1
For those who use Wise and have a Bulgarian UBB Account, transferring money between Wise and UBB just got a whole load better.The last time I transferred money, it took a couple of days. However, I transferred money today and it arrived within 30 ...
@cyberescue1I have a Revolut account and they are instant transfers too. Read More
Bulgarian Dance Events in the NE? by jeanmandredeix
Can anyone tell me how I can find out about events? There is nothing in my village that happens and Silistra is probably closest.Restaurants that have Bulgarian dancing or village events? When I get a bit better organised here I would like to join a ...
@Zooldrool Thanks. I was also hoping to find local events that I see on YouTube. In Plovdiv every Sunday in the park they dance as an example but I have no idea how to find them even with Google and far too far away.My village has nothing as I ... Read More
Off topic - whats on your mind? by SimCityAT
As with a lot of Forums, there are dedicated posts in which members can talk about anything. They generally are for just chit-chat and as the Bulgaria Forum has a high volume of participants it's about time it had its own. You still have to abide by ...
Well I have come to the conclusion that it does seem pointless voting in any election these days when whatever the people choose then the other parties collaborate against it.If Radev wins which is looking most likely so far then Borissov has said ... Read More
Bulgarian Dance Events in the NE?
Can anyone tell me how I can find out about events? There is nothing in my village that happens and Silistra is probably closest.Restaurants that have Bulgarian dancing or village events? When I get a bit better organised here I would like to join a ... Read More
Current flights to UK? by jeanmandredeix
My husband has to go back to UK to collect his Visa (a very annoying point) and apart from Sofia am I doing something wrong as I can find no direct flights. Luton or Stansted would be best. Varna would have been better as it’s 5.5hrs drive to ...
Thanks so much. Stansted one is ideal as his brother can pick him up so it’s booked now. Google isn’t always your friend 😂😂 Here was much better. Read More
Current flights to UK?
My husband has to go back to UK to collect his Visa (a very annoying point) and apart from Sofia am I doing something wrong as I can find no direct flights. Luton or Stansted would be best. Varna would have been better as it’s 5.5hrs drive to ... Read More
Changing company account to Euros by Jules999
Is it true that now we are in the Euro currency, any company accounts ( even non trading ) must be changed & registered as a Euro currency account? There seems to be some confusion within my circle of friends.
@Jules999Yes. We are about to get it done. The price varies, we are paying €120 but I saw on a FB group that a real estate company wants €200. Read More
Garden centres
Now we are finally here I would like to buy a few fruit trees and some other garden plants. I tried a Google search and could find nothing. Any ideas on where I might find something like that? We are in the north east, Silistra being the closest ... Read More
Thinking to move to Bulgaria by james1992main
We are seriously considering moving from the uk to Bulgaria and doing research and looking Yambol looks suitable for us. I am from a farming background along with being a Shotblaster/painter and very handy with my hands as far as woodwork goes. ...
@SimCityATCouldn’t wait 5 years, you could be dead by then 😃 Read More
Thinking to move to Bulgaria by james1992main
We are seriously considering moving from the uk to Bulgaria and doing research and looking Yambol looks suitable for us. I am from a farming background along with being a Shotblaster/painter and very handy with my hands as far as woodwork goes. ...
@james1992maini hope it works out for you too. I have not found even the retirement visa an easy process and it’s a lot more costly than I estimated. The costs of trains to London (from N Wales) were horrendous and there are the costs of ... Read More
Immigration Based on Disability Allowance by Tokyo99991
Hi,I'm a citizen of a non-EU country, looking to immigrate to Bulgaria.My sole income source is from a monthly disability allowance of about 800 Euro. I'm aware that it will be very challenging to live in Bulgaria with this amount, but my question ...
I assume you are not UK? As you lose disability payments even if you only spend 3 months abroad. I think you would struggle to survive on that payment though if you are taking rent out of it. Read More
Preparing for the move – budget and language concerns by krisEtAl
I am still stateside, and trying to figure out logistics (and learn the new language!) Aside from landing over there, everything is up in the air. This site has already been helpful, learning about the switch to Euro. I hope that won't make things ...
@janemulberryIt’s getting concerning now as we still haven’t heard, tried enquiring as did immigration lawyer and no response. Need to get back to the property as the garden will soon get overgrown and there are issues with water (leak ... Read More
Preparing for the move – budget and language concerns by krisEtAl
I am still stateside, and trying to figure out logistics (and learn the new language!) Aside from landing over there, everything is up in the air. This site has already been helpful, learning about the switch to Euro. I hope that won't make things ...
I agree with Jane’s post. It is a love it or hate it type of country. There are many more challenges than some other countries.The abandoned villages and roaming street dogs I found shocking. Another was the language. When we moved to France ... Read More
Important Topic You May Have Missed by JimJ
Those members who own a property here through a company, whether dormant or active, may not be aware that the Bulgaria's entry to the Eurozone has a knock-on effect which, as far as I'm aware, hasn't really been publicised. I'm including verbatim my ...
I saw someone offering that service and asking €200 for it. For something that seemed pretty simple it appeared pricey to me? Read More
Preparing for the move – budget and language concerns by krisEtAl
I am still stateside, and trying to figure out logistics (and learn the new language!) Aside from landing over there, everything is up in the air. This site has already been helpful, learning about the switch to Euro. I hope that won't make things ...
@SimCityAT I agree. As we used to live in France I still look at the odd forum and many have found it very difficult, even those renewing. We would love to have returned to France but it’s too expensive. Read More
Moving to a town near Pavilkeni by graciela99
Hello everyone!My husband and I are looking at a property near Pavlikeni. Does anyone know if this is a good area? Are there expats in the area? Any help is greatly appreciated!!!Thanks!Graciela
@janemulberry Took 6 weeks and still waiting for hubbys. Read More
Moving to a town near Pavilkeni by graciela99
Hello everyone!My husband and I are looking at a property near Pavlikeni. Does anyone know if this is a good area? Are there expats in the area? Any help is greatly appreciated!!!Thanks!Graciela
@janemulberryI finally got a phone call for mine yesterday (11th) but still haven’t heard for my husbands. I did ask the girl who phoned but she didn’t know. Read More
Moving to a town near Pavilkeni by graciela99
Hello everyone!My husband and I are looking at a property near Pavlikeni. Does anyone know if this is a good area? Are there expats in the area? Any help is greatly appreciated!!!Thanks!Graciela
@Frankjones535Good luck with the Visa. We are still waiting for the phone call to say it’s ok and we can collect. They did say at least 40 days. Hate the trip to London but just want to get back out there. Read More
New members of the Bulgaria forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 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 ...
@Frankjones535Are you using an immigration lawyer. I would recommend it. We are waiting for a phone call to hopefully pick ours up. Fingers crossed. Read More
Yet more "Medical Research" coming up! by JimJ
It looks as though our family's acquaintance with BG health treatment is about to become even closer. My orthopaedic surgeon tells me that I need two total knee replacements ASAP and that I should stand by to have my wallet take a battering. Even ...
Ouch. Would it have made any difference if you had a private health policy as they didn’t seem too expensive but have heard they find a lot of excuses to not pay up. Read More
What is the cost of utilities in the new currency? by Mrs Homemaker
Has anyone found a spike in the cost of their electricity or other utility bills?I didnt think there would be any difference in cost charged ie what was once 29.BGN Would still be the same only a conversion from BGN to Euros.Any thoughts?
I realised why you asked about name. The name is of the guy who signed off the bill at the bottom 😀😀 Read More
What is the cost of utilities in the new currency? by Mrs Homemaker
Has anyone found a spike in the cost of their electricity or other utility bills?I didnt think there would be any difference in cost charged ie what was once 29.BGN Would still be the same only a conversion from BGN to Euros.Any thoughts?
The bills are in my name. Both sent through on the same email, both for the same account. They read the meter from the post. I can’t check anything as we came back on 14 December and can’t return till we collect our visas. I should be ... Read More
What is the cost of utilities in the new currency? by Mrs Homemaker
Has anyone found a spike in the cost of their electricity or other utility bills?I didnt think there would be any difference in cost charged ie what was once 29.BGN Would still be the same only a conversion from BGN to Euros.Any thoughts?
@JimJBoth dated for December. Same guys name at bottom of bill. We had a highish bill in November but we had been using a lot of power tools and had electric heating on 24/7 to warm it through as it was extra cold from being empty . Read More
What is the cost of utilities in the new currency? by Mrs Homemaker
Has anyone found a spike in the cost of their electricity or other utility bills?I didnt think there would be any difference in cost charged ie what was once 29.BGN Would still be the same only a conversion from BGN to Euros.Any thoughts?
@JimJThats my thoughts. Read More
What is the cost of utilities in the new currency? by Mrs Homemaker
Has anyone found a spike in the cost of their electricity or other utility bills?I didnt think there would be any difference in cost charged ie what was once 29.BGN Would still be the same only a conversion from BGN to Euros.Any thoughts?
@SimCityAT One month. Not sure what’s happened but it’s annoying. Read More
What is the cost of utilities in the new currency? by Mrs Homemaker
Has anyone found a spike in the cost of their electricity or other utility bills?I didnt think there would be any difference in cost charged ie what was once 29.BGN Would still be the same only a conversion from BGN to Euros.Any thoughts?
@Mrs HomemakerI have had an horrendous bill but it will have to wait till we get over to sort out. It’s been paid but cant think why its so high.Only a small one level house, and we have had two separate bills. The total €223 and ... Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
We had already flown out several times when we were house hunting. Impossible for longer term with a crazy Dalmatian cross 😂The next trip will hopefully be the one where we get to stay. Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
@SimCityAT Always in Germany 🤣🤣 for us. Our summer journey was an absolute nightmare in most countries though. Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
@SimCityATWe go via Craiova and sailed through. Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
@fluffy2560We came back middle of December and had no problems the route we took. Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
@fluffy2560I don’t have any problems with Hungary or Romania. A lot of the roadworks have been completed and we don’t get the problems that we had in July. The Giurgui bridge needs to be timed well. We usually return on a Sunday but not ... Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
@fluffy2560 I will try the Croatian route as that sounds better. Thanks. Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
@SimCityATi have never had a problem finding dog friendly accommodation. My main issue is to avoid driving through Germany. We do try to find accommodation that has good walks nearby. We have stayed at a couple now where they are in a forest. Our ... Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
We prefer Eurotunnel as it’s easier with the dog and suits us. We went back both times via Laon, France. We were looking to drive down to Briancon then across via Milan and into Slovenia then Hungary and Romania and finally Bulgaria.We always ... Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
@Zooldrool No idea about Austrians but the timing always needs us to get across Austria as we always stay at a lovely friendly hotel at Gyor.I don’t dislike Germans, we both worked for a German company for years but I have always had issues - ... Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
@fluffy2560Thanks that’s useful. We’ve been to and fro twice now and we aren’t bothered about tolls, we have tended to skirt Germany on the return journey. We couldn’t avoid it going as we took Hull to Hook of Holland. Not ... Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
No. We done the ferry last time and we came back via the Tunnel. Our dog hated the exercise area although cabin was fine so I got no sleep and it was a pain with them searching the car. We like French roads although not so keen on the tolls. I ... Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy?
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ... Read More
Merry Christmas Everyone! by JimJ
I hope that you're all enjoying the festive season, and eating/drinking to (minor) excess. If you're in BG, enjoy the mild weather - winter arrives next week, apparently....
@janemulberryYes with pleasure. Wait to hear from you. Read More
Merry Christmas Everyone! by JimJ
I hope that you're all enjoying the festive season, and eating/drinking to (minor) excess. If you're in BG, enjoy the mild weather - winter arrives next week, apparently....
@janemulberryIt was very straightforward although not how I imagined. I didn’t realise it would be at a counter and not an office. Believe it or not, when we arrived the time for the appointment for my husband’s appointment had changed ... Read More
Happy new year! by janemulberry
I hope everyone achieves their hopes and goals for 2026!
Happy New Year to all. Let’s hope it’s a better one! Read More
Gorna Oryahovitsa Airport by Zooldrool
Hi All,Just catching up on the news I missed this year and saw this article:https://seenews.com/news/bulgarias-gorna-oryahovitsa-airport-eyes-passenger-service-report-1285744You think this could happen?. Could we be catching a Ryanair direct to ...
@ZooldroolThat would be great if they do. Read More
Merry Christmas Everyone! by JimJ
I hope that you're all enjoying the festive season, and eating/drinking to (minor) excess. If you're in BG, enjoy the mild weather - winter arrives next week, apparently....
@JimJ Hope you had a Merry Xmas. We are off for our Visa appointment in London today. What a nightmare trying to get a train to arrive in London at the right time. Not helped by original appointment being 14.55 except it was 12.55 when they notified ... Read More
Are we all paying attention? by JimJ
I'm feeling a little bemused - and indeed disappointed - by the silence within our little-but-merry band regarding the current political developments/upheaval.At the moment, Bulgaria is a boat with neither rudder nor helmsman, sailing into an ...
@JimJThe EU and Starmer have bankrupted the countries and when they do that they start wars to cover it up. Macron and Starmer have planned it for March and Sweden are stockpiling grain. The west is in a mess with all governments being the problem. ... Read More
Has food cost increaed massively? by jeanmandredeix
Is it me or has food costs increased over past few months? I monitored my food costs on our last 6 week visit and we have only been here two weeks so far and they seem a hell of a lot higher.
@Fred What has that got to do with food? Nothing. Read More
Thinking of moving to Bulgaria by jeanmandredeix
Hi. We are a retired couple with a dog that are considering moving to Bulgaria for a better life than the UK. I am doing research currently on areas and certainly don’t want Sunny Beach but I do like the more southern areas but note that the ...
A lot happened since I first asked that question. We came over and explored different regions and ended up buying a property in the north east. We have our appointment in London for our visa at end of December.One thing I have found is that ... Read More
Different Regions in Bulgaria - How do you decide? by Zooldrool
I was just reading this article (below) on the different economics of the different regions in Bulgaria and wondered how people here picked their place?Was it just ok price/availability or a feeling?.Have many gone for one area and then moved after ...
For us we decided the south not only was more expensive but would also be too hot for us. We looked at lots in the north west but nothing felt right.Then we saw one near Silistra in NE and we knew that ticked all the boxes before we saw it. Read More
Has food cost increaed massively? by jeanmandredeix
Is it me or has food costs increased over past few months? I monitored my food costs on our last 6 week visit and we have only been here two weeks so far and they seem a hell of a lot higher.
@SimCityAT Dulce Gusto was €6.87 a box and similar prices for Davidoff. 200g jar of Jacob’s instant was €9.99 I think on special. Read More
Has food cost increaed massively?
Is it me or has food costs increased over past few months? I monitored my food costs on our last 6 week visit and we have only been here two weeks so far and they seem a hell of a lot higher. Read More
Turkish Shopping Trips by Zooldrool
Those living near the boarder do you take regular regular trips to Turkey for cheaper produce and other essentials?. I am curious, as prices rise in Bulgaria are more people living near the boarder making regular shopping trips?
Personally I don’t think it’s worth the effort. There always seems long waits at the border to not save hardly anything. Read More
Question for Admin(s) by JimJ
I float around a few of the other Country sections on this site and my impression is that the Bulgaria one is one of the most active, despite the number of foreign immigrants here being rather lower than in many other EU countries. Am I right in my ...
@JimJI went quiet as I was busy trying to get Visa paperwork together and got pretty stressed with waiting for responses. Our very well made plan has had some major hiccups mostly to do with transport. Read More
Thinking to move to Bulgaria by james1992main
We are seriously considering moving from the uk to Bulgaria and doing research and looking Yambol looks suitable for us. I am from a farming background along with being a Shotblaster/painter and very handy with my hands as far as woodwork goes. ...
As you are serious about moving then it might be worth at least getting the advice from an immigration lawyer. I think most of us here are or have done the retirement visa. I have wondered how some YouTubers survive and possibly they work in the ... Read More
Question on Visa D by jeanmandredeix
We are currently getting paperwork together for the retirement Visa D but am a bit concerned on my husbands application as I am in receipt of state pension but he only has company pension for now. They seem to want a state pension? Am I right? Will ...
@alanjolly65Because of delays in getting paperwork returned etc and my husband will get his pension in January we are reluctantly delaying the application . It’s made things awkward as we now are returning to Bulgaria in November to finish off ... Read More
Question for Admin(s) by JimJ
I float around a few of the other Country sections on this site and my impression is that the Bulgaria one is one of the most active, despite the number of foreign immigrants here being rather lower than in many other EU countries. Am I right in my ...
@JimJi don’t know but my experience of most forums is that I left them pretty quickly due to excessive bitching and bullying which fortunately doesn’t seem to happen on this one. Read More
Getting older in Bulgaria by Kath948381
Do I have to return to the UK from my Bulgarian village home as I'm getting older ? I miss the peace and quiet when I have to return to the UK now and then so what do I do when I get older and older, I'm 72 , 73 later in the year.
@Kath948381I think this depends on you individually. When we had to return from France I was heartbroken and still get homesick for it. I don’t really recognise the UK as my home at all. I appreciate health issues may be an issue but would it ... Read More
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 .
It depends on how much you are bringing with you. We bought a cheap van and brought over as much as we could. We only bought a small property and it had some furniture with it and white goods we bought here as they are a good price. Read More
The pollution caused by old diesel cars in Bulgaria has made me sick by GoingDutch
Just as a warning to other foreigners looking to move to Bulgaria. The air quality is very bad because of the pollution caused by old German diesel cars and fossil fuel burning in winter for heating. The old diesel cars, often the exact types ...
Wow. Such negativity. I get asthma is UKand it’s much reduced here. There are street dogs but not found any aggressive. As a poorer country you can’t expect them to all have new cars. Obviously Bulgaria is not for you. Perhaps attitude ... Read More
Advice on practicality please. by stansfieldsimon
Hi allI am considering retiring to Bulgaria with my wife. We have £35000 to spend on a property and around £1500 to spend on life per month. Is it possible to purchase a nice property and live comfortably for that in a region with an ...
@stansfieldsimon We are in the process of getting our visas and depending on what you are looking for in a house then it’s very do-able. The retirement visa if you have UK passport is long winded and fairly costly. I am sickof waiting for ... Read More
Advice on practicality please. by stansfieldsimon
Hi allI am considering retiring to Bulgaria with my wife. We have £35000 to spend on a property and around £1500 to spend on life per month. Is it possible to purchase a nice property and live comfortably for that in a region with an ...
@SimCityATThe houses in Italy tend to be in villages with no gardens and lots of steps which I always think is an impractical idea if you are retired. Italian bureaucracy seems to be worse than most too. 😄 Read More
The Harsh Reality Renovating In Bulgaria - New buyers beware by S25 - Sean
Welcome to the newbies who need to read this cautionary tale, to the veterans who roll their eyes with a smile after their own experiences and a light apology if some of this comes across as a rant or complaining. I'm about to share my experiences ...
I suppose it depends on what you buy. We found something that we could do majority ourselves. Our triple glazed windows we had from order to delivery in three weeks. Our local general supplier delivers to our door in a day or two depending on ... Read More
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 ...
@Mrs HomemakerReducing CO2 will not stop the climate changing. It should be preparedness for extreme weather. We could reach net zero tomorrow, all live in poverty and the climate won’t stop changing and it’s not humans doing it. Earths ... Read More
Driving from UK by jeanmandredeix
I take my hat off to anyone who has done journey from UK in two or three days!We left Suffolk at 2.30am Saturday and done a heavy drive in our van to Germany, some 12 hours or so.Today we drove the rest of Germany, Austria and are staying in Hungary ...
We are Garvan to the west. 😄 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 ...
I found the Bulgarian Embassy really helpful if you have a query and they have an email address on their website. Read More
Driving from UK by jeanmandredeix
I take my hat off to anyone who has done journey from UK in two or three days!We left Suffolk at 2.30am Saturday and done a heavy drive in our van to Germany, some 12 hours or so.Today we drove the rest of Germany, Austria and are staying in Hungary ...
@knobworx We are north east, near Silistra and did consider Vidin but didn’t do it in the end as by timing the Giurgui Bridge early on a Sunday there were very few Lorrie’s and queue was shorter. I did check out ferries but they seemed ... Read More
Driving from UK by jeanmandredeix
I take my hat off to anyone who has done journey from UK in two or three days!We left Suffolk at 2.30am Saturday and done a heavy drive in our van to Germany, some 12 hours or so.Today we drove the rest of Germany, Austria and are staying in Hungary ...
No air con in a cheap van made the journey intolerable and my husband has a bad back so we can’t do the journey in a short time.We did the return journey on a different route. We used the Giurgui Bridge but early on a Sunday and that was easy. ... Read More
Question on Visa D by jeanmandredeix
We are currently getting paperwork together for the retirement Visa D but am a bit concerned on my husbands application as I am in receipt of state pension but he only has company pension for now. They seem to want a state pension? Am I right? Will ...
@gwynj I decided to check with the Embassy and they replied very quickly and said it will be accepted so long as it’s done the same as the state pension paperwork. 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 ...
@European family pet transport Did you realise you are responding to a very old post 😃 Read More
Question on Visa D by jeanmandredeix
We are currently getting paperwork together for the retirement Visa D but am a bit concerned on my husbands application as I am in receipt of state pension but he only has company pension for now. They seem to want a state pension? Am I right? Will ...
@JimJ Yes, I agree. It concerns me how he is treating everyone but they certainly don’t like pensioners and seem to want to ensure they won’t receive a pension. I read yesterday that they are saying about 80 for retirement! I take it ... Read More
Question on Visa D
We are currently getting paperwork together for the retirement Visa D but am a bit concerned on my husbands application as I am in receipt of state pension but he only has company pension for now. They seem to want a state pension? Am I right? Will ... Read More
Free puppy. Svilengrad area by frazer2022
We have just taken in a young male puppy. I'm guessing that he is around 6 months old and we would like someone to give him a permanent home.He was dumped in our village a couple of weeks ago and now he is living part time in our garden where he is ...
@frazer2022 No, we are right up in the north near Silistra but wouldn’t be the first time I have travelled far to get a rescue. When we lived in France the rescue contacted me to foster a dog who was found shot. Needless to say we kept her and ... 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? 🙏
Couldn’t be asked, we have the two accounts. We were there for more than 4 hours so I was just pleased to get the accounts going. Read More