kojidae
American expat in Bulgaria
Forum posts
588
Contacts
45
About me
American
Lives in Gabrovo
Speaks English, Bulgarian
Registration: 10 April 2013
Medication in Bulgaria by Loïc
Good morning everyone, Whether it's a simple cold or a chronic illness, medication and medicine use vary from country to country and culture to culture. When you are used to certain brands or types of drugs, being in a country like Bulgaria ...
For me I've found medications to be much cheaper in Bulgaria than in the US. (Both over-the-counter and prescription). This is especially true for antidepressants and anti-anxiety medication. I've found some drugs that are over-the-counter ... Read More
Medication in Bulgaria by Loïc
Good morning everyone, Whether it's a simple cold or a chronic illness, medication and medicine use vary from country to country and culture to culture. When you are used to certain brands or types of drugs, being in a country like Bulgaria ...
Did you have a prescription for the rantidine? It is by prescription only in Bulgaria... not over the counter. Read More
how to get a long term visa by Timislov
Hello everyone, My name is Stephen and I am in Varna now. I have been spending my retirement traveling around Europe. Last year I was in Spain and the year before that I was in Slovakia. At the moment I am trying to figure out how to get a long ...
The only thing I would add is if you have residency in another country, you can apply in that other country. (This is the only exception to applying in your country of origin) Read More
Starting kids in school when you arrive? by RQuin
My wife and I are considering relocating to Bulgaria in a few years when I retire, and we have small children. They would likely be 4-9 years old when we arrived. As expats working to get our residency permits, can they attend public schools? Or ...
All of this really depends on where you move. The situation in the large cities is very different than the situation in smaller cities and villages. 1) Can they attend Bulgarian school. Yes. You will have to go talk to the director of the schools ... Read More
Bus travel info'
Check out bus radar. It has english and you can book return tickets. Otherwise, you can buy return tickets at the station. Usually there is a no minimum for return, but there is a max (like you must use it in a week or 15 days). Read More
Brexit after-effects
Brexit should only affect British citizens, not other non-eu countries. For other non-eu citizens, it should remain as it currently is. Read More
Got my Bulgarian Driving License! :) by kojidae
I finally passed the driving today. (After six months of paperwork hassles, lessons, and a test). If anyone else is from countries where you can't just exchange your license (ie- the US ) feel free to ask me questions if you are thinking about ...
1. You must have lived in Bulgaria for 6 months (I believe) and have a residence permit 2. You need a high school diploma, notorized, apostilled by your state, and then translated into Bulgarian and legalized. 3. Take that diploma to your local ... Read More
Join health system by Johnkwt
Hi to all I have lived in sofia for 6 months. I am a UK national but have not lived there for many years so not paid national insurance etc. I have Bulgarian residence permit. I now wish to join the Bulgarian health system. Does anyone have ...
As far as I understand, foreigners can join the health system after they receive an EGN, which for non-eu is around 3-5 years of residency, depending on the reason for residency. At least that is how it worked for me and my friends. We were not ... Read More
Folktales and legends in Bulgaria by Diksha
Hello everyone, Time to spark your imagination! Below is a list of questions to pique your interest in folktales and legends associated with Bulgaria. 1. Name 3 popular legends that have been passed down from generation to generation in ...
They made a movie about a piece of history. That would be similar to saying that the holocaust is folklore because movies were made about it. For all the vampire graves found in Bulgaria, I haven't heard a lot of Bulgarians talk about vampires ... Read More
Folktales and legends in Bulgaria by Diksha
Hello everyone, Time to spark your imagination! Below is a list of questions to pique your interest in folktales and legends associated with Bulgaria. 1. Name 3 popular legends that have been passed down from generation to generation in ...
That is not really a folktale or legend. It is the ottoman blood tax, which was exacted all over southeastern Europe. Boys between 8-10 were taken to Istanbul for training and usually turned into soldiers. Up until the 1700s. Read More
Safest place for a black couple to migrate to? by Cizooh
A black young couple planning on getting married ending of the month and we’ve been reading and researching for a while now. We are looking for a place for honeymoon and probably start life there. We shortlisted Bulgaria, Ukraine and ...
I wonder what bubble one could live in to say that Bulgaria is not a racist country. The majority of Bulgarians I've met--from the sweetest old ladies to little children--are racist. That being said, many are not racist against blacks, ... Read More
Buying a house in Bulgaria by Sabinechapeaux
Hi everyone, my name is Sabine. I'm coming in Bulgaria at the beginning of October with my family to visit and to buy a holiday home (maybe to live in BG later on). I'm planning a 17 days trip with appointments with estate agents and with the idea ...
It is not true that you would need a visa for every visit. In case of no-deal, UK nationals would be able to stay in Bulgaria for up to 90 days without a visa, similar to many other non-eu countries. So they would only need a visa if they plan to ... Read More
Varna...out of the frying pan and into the fire! by jeremie12
Hi Everybody.... I am swiss guy how left Switzerland looking for much better social contacts and start completely new life..i moved to Bulgaria 5 weeks ago..my first destination in Bulgaria was Plovdiv..very nice city with historical background, i ...
I am confused because in Plovdiv I have often come across people who speak English. Not taxi drivers (honestly, not taxi drivers in any Bulgarian city) but definitely people in bars and restaurants. In Varna I also regularly come across people who ... Read More
Cycling clubs?
Most of the bike shops have their own clubs (it is usually younger/teens, but some have adult teams, too). Go into any shop and ask and you'll start to find them. Here's a list of the teams taking part in the Bulgaria MTB series... maybe ... Read More
non-eu resident traveling to Europe
It is worth noting that even though you need an entry visa, they should be issued free of charge and within a short time frame (15 days for schengen countries) based solely on your residency and proof of marriage. ... Read More
Balchik
Does it have the infrastructure to support year round living? Yes. Plenty of people live there year round. As in other cities, streets are cleaned, there is water, electricity, basic shopping. Will the winter living be pleasant? Probably not. It is ... Read More
Americans in Bulgaria by DrDuane
I am interested in your location, how long you have been in BG and what you have done re: automobile, taxes, etc. Thanks.
I agree that a lawyer is not necessary. Plenty of people get the D-visa without one (including me). But if you can afford one, an experienced immigration lawyer can make the process less frustrating. Read More
Expat life in Bulgaria - expectations V reality by Lee4
Hi I'm attracted to expat life in Bulgaria as I like - the landscapes, the weather and seasons, the low population density, the cheap £ prices on almost everything compared to in England. I want a place to live life, relax, enjoy my ...
I'm not really sure how many buskers you'll encounter living in a place where you can grow fruit and veg... only the larger cities have buskers, not the villages. So does it really matter if they use microphones or not? (Which, some do, some ... Read More
Medications
Metformin and its analogs are available with a prescription. Not without. As for the other two, not sure what exactly you mean. You can check on https://zdrave.framar.bg/%D1%82%D1%8A%D1%80%D1%81%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B5/metformin?s=apteka It's in ... Read More
Healthcare for an American in BG by DrDuane
A current thread has discussed healthcare for an expat from the UK. I am curious about how Americans are managing their healthcare/insurance in BG.
Before I got on the Bulgarian healthcare system I simply paid privately. I got the lowest healthcare insurance possible for the visa/residence permit (which is only extreme emergency coverage and expatriation of remains... basically not worth using) ... Read More
Snakes, and other biting or stinging creatures in Bulgaria by Lee4
Hi, I've read that there are a lot of snakes in Bulgaria, including the most venomous snake in Europe the Nose Horned Viper, Vipera ammodytes. With snakes of various varieties being sighted fairly frequently - living in fields, in woodland, ...
I'll say I've never seen either of the poisonous variety. Only the harmless ones. Read More
Accommodation in Bulgaria: scams you should look out for by Bhavna
Hi, Committing to renting or buying accommodation when youre new to or have not moved to Bulgaria just yet is always a stressful endeavour. Would you like to help us in putting together a handbook of what to look out for when house hunting in ...
One thing to be aware of when renting--- most landlords do not return deposits, even if you leave the apartment as you found it. You can try taking pictures and documenting when you move in and threatening with a lawyer when you move out, but ... Read More
Snakes, and other biting or stinging creatures in Bulgaria by Lee4
Hi, I've read that there are a lot of snakes in Bulgaria, including the most venomous snake in Europe the Nose Horned Viper, Vipera ammodytes. With snakes of various varieties being sighted fairly frequently - living in fields, in woodland, ...
It's not any more dangerous than other countries (wildlife wise) and much less dangerous than many (I come from Arizona, filled with over 18 kinds of poisonous-to-human snakes, scorpians, lizards that can take off a limb flesh decaying spiders ... Read More
Snakes, and other biting or stinging creatures in Bulgaria by Lee4
Hi, I've read that there are a lot of snakes in Bulgaria, including the most venomous snake in Europe the Nose Horned Viper, Vipera ammodytes. With snakes of various varieties being sighted fairly frequently - living in fields, in woodland, ...
There are plenty of snakes in Bulgaria but the vast majority of them are not poisonous to humans. The two to be aware of are the horned viper and the common european viper. The numbers of these are NOT very high in Bulgaria, but they are around. ... Read More
American driving a car in in BG by DrDuane
Are there any people from the US who have a car and drive in BG? If so, how did you do it?
I paid 600 lev to my school. This included the lessons, a study book, one attempt at written exam and one attempt at driving exam. For them, if a student fails the exam, they just charge the amount the state charges (I think 30 lev for the written ... Read More
American driving a car in in BG by DrDuane
Are there any people from the US who have a car and drive in BG? If so, how did you do it?
Depends on where you are. In smaller areas, there are not English-speaking driving teachers. In places like Sofia, Varna there are some English-speaking instructors. The written exam is available in English, but I could not understand many of the ... Read More
American driving a car in in BG by DrDuane
Are there any people from the US who have a car and drive in BG? If so, how did you do it?
I drive in Bulgaria, but my Bulgarian husband owns the car. As far as getting a license, for the first year you can drive with a US license w/ the international DP or Bulgarian translation. After that you are supposed to take the Bulgaria courses ... Read More
Overstaying repercussions... by OliviaFree
Okay, so long story short i have overstayed my Bulgarian visa free allowance. What will happen when i leave? Story longer, i am Australian my husband is French. We have moved to Sofia, however the lawyers we have hired to take care of the residence ...
You can not simply apply for a Bulgarian visa in a neighboring country. Bulgaria requires long-term visas to be applied for from a country where you have residence. So, no, hopping over to Serbia and applying is no longer an option. (It used to be, ... Read More
Help with process for Registering as an EU citizen by lauraball
OK, So I have struggled to find a straight forward explanation of the process and timeframes for registering and receiving a lichna karta here. Currently I understand the process to be: Go to the immigration office with: Application form filled ...
Лична карта literally means a card for personal identification. Every single place that has asked for a lichna card- the hospital, doctor, registering a new address - has accepted my ... Read More
Help with process for Registering as an EU citizen by lauraball
OK, So I have struggled to find a straight forward explanation of the process and timeframes for registering and receiving a lichna karta here. Currently I understand the process to be: Go to the immigration office with: Application form filled ...
Uhhh, you can get a lichna card. EU can opt to get only a residence permit or residence permit and lichna card. Non-EU must get a card. Read More
VISA D Information by Johann147
Hello everyone! Where can I get exact details of the different ways to acquire a category D visa? I've been looking at the government websites, but they are all pretty vague. I'm looking for the best way to immigrate. I was planning on ...
Curious Johnavann, did you get a freelancer visa without being proficient in the language? Or did you know Bulgarian? Read More
Requirements to register as a freelance worker by LeonieOver
Hi - I've been searching the forum for any information by people who have registered as freelancers. I'm not an EU citizen, but I have bought a house near Varna. I know you have to register with the relevant authority, the Bulgarian National ...
Yes, it is true you need level B1 or higher. Here is how to get the permission for freelancing: https://www.az.government.bg/pages/izdavane-na-razresheniya-za-izvarshvane-na-deynost-na-svobodna-praktika-ot-chuzhdentsi-v-republika-bulgaria/ Read More
VISA D Information by Johann147
Hello everyone! Where can I get exact details of the different ways to acquire a category D visa? I've been looking at the government websites, but they are all pretty vague. I'm looking for the best way to immigrate. I was planning on ...
You would best talk to a lawyer. You could possibly open a company in your home country and then apply as a representative of your company, as then you won't have the language requirement. But I am just guessing at this as I don't have ... Read More
Exchanging expired driving licence by mcmaxum
Hi, has anyone had a similar or the same situation as myself. My EU driving licence expired in January 2019, I can't renew it for Bulgarian one since I am not a registred citizen for 185 days. Cought myself in whole, since I am registered in ...
You got had by your doctor (unless, maybe you were also charged for an exam if you are not in the national health system). I got mine just last month and the exam for driving was still just 15 lev. Read More
Insurance or National Health by GuestPoster110520
Hi, I am a bit confused about whether we are able to pay into the Bulgarian National Health Insurance Fund or not. We are don’t work here (but are not retirement age), we live semi self sufficiently and have a small income from the UK. We ...
I believe if you are from an EU country you need a form from your home country to say you are stopping insurance there and starting in Bulgaria. (At least that is what someone in another group said he needed). Read More
totally confused by eugiebear
Hello It is second time that I went to NAP in Burgas to get Bulgarian National Health Insurance. First time the woman at the counter said I wasn't entitled to it as long as I have the UK health Insurance. I couldn't understand her (she ...
Healthcare within EU is complicated and based on several things. Your residency, where you work etc. For example are you working here or are you a retiree? If you are a retiree, you need a document from your home country. Similar if you are here on ... Read More
Insurance or National Health by GuestPoster110520
Hi, I am a bit confused about whether we are able to pay into the Bulgarian National Health Insurance Fund or not. We are don’t work here (but are not retirement age), we live semi self sufficiently and have a small income from the UK. We ...
I believe EU gets EGN instead of лнч as soon as they register for residency... but I am not 100% sure on that. Non-EU have a лнч for the first 3-5 years (while we have 1-year permits). The level of permits goes: ... Read More
Insurance or National Health by GuestPoster110520
Hi, I am a bit confused about whether we are able to pay into the Bulgarian National Health Insurance Fund or not. We are don’t work here (but are not retirement age), we live semi self sufficiently and have a small income from the UK. We ...
The EGN would start with your birth year, birth month, birth day as the first six numbers. A лнч is a bit more randomly assigned, so it would not start with your birth year. Read More
Insurance or National Health by GuestPoster110520
Hi, I am a bit confused about whether we are able to pay into the Bulgarian National Health Insurance Fund or not. We are don’t work here (but are not retirement age), we live semi self sufficiently and have a small income from the UK. We ...
Also, to let you know, I had problems registering when I had a лнч but once I got my EGN I was able to register without problems. So, if you have a lnch instead of an EGN, you may have problems registering. Read More
Insurance or National Health by GuestPoster110520
Hi, I am a bit confused about whether we are able to pay into the Bulgarian National Health Insurance Fund or not. We are don’t work here (but are not retirement age), we live semi self sufficiently and have a small income from the UK. We ...
Gibb- You'll want to go to the NAP office in the center. It is on the pedestrian walkway, a pinkish building w/ the entrance on the middle of the block, with the eu and Bulgarian flags on top of the door. If you don't speak Bulgarian, ... Read More
Reliable Estate Agents? by xpatbg
What are the trusted or reliable Estate Agents of Bulgarian Property Market? How about the "Premium Properties BG" premiumpropertiesbg.com ? Any comments or experiences with them?
Yeah, if you paid cash and they never gave you a deed it seems like you got scammed. Do you have any kind of signed agreement from them? If you're lucky, that would hold up in court. Otherwise you are out your money. Read More
Got my Bulgarian Driving License! :) by kojidae
I finally passed the driving today. (After six months of paperwork hassles, lessons, and a test). If anyone else is from countries where you can't just exchange your license (ie- the US ) feel free to ask me questions if you are thinking about ...
For non-eu countries, you can use your license up to one year with an internationals drivers permit (or translation). However, once you have been a resident of Bulgaria for a year, you are supposed to switch to a Bulgarian license. A lot of people ... Read More
Exchange Uk drivers license by silentnomad
Hi all, I have been told that in order to exchange my UK driving license for a Bulgarian one I have to have been resident here for 6 months. I have only been resident for roughly 2 months now and I am concerned about this Brexit thing. Is this 6 ...
Didn't GB finally ratify their participation in the Vienna Road Convention as of March last year? (March 28, 2018 https://treaties.un.org/pages/ViewDetailsIII.aspx?src=TREATY&mtdsg_no=XI-B-19&chapter=11&Temp=mtdsg3&clang=_en ) ... Read More
Information for Bulgarian citizenship application.
Who informed you the system is closed? The system has been undergoing changes, but I have not heard that it has closed. There is no way to apply online (you can make an appointment to give your documents and take an interview online, but cannot ... Read More
Exchange Uk drivers license by silentnomad
Hi all, I have been told that in order to exchange my UK driving license for a Bulgarian one I have to have been resident here for 6 months. I have only been resident for roughly 2 months now and I am concerned about this Brexit thing. Is this 6 ...
no idea on that one. Usually if you are living in the EU, you are allowed to renew in the country where your license was issued, independent of where you are currently living. So it would make sense you would be allowed to renew it here. But not at ... Read More
Exchange Uk drivers license by silentnomad
Hi all, I have been told that in order to exchange my UK driving license for a Bulgarian one I have to have been resident here for 6 months. I have only been resident for roughly 2 months now and I am concerned about this Brexit thing. Is this 6 ...
It's correct that you need to have lived in Bulgaria for six months (183 days, I believe, but it could be 185) and you need to have registered here as your residence. (Just as the rules are for Bulgarians in England) Read More
Got my Bulgarian Driving License! :) by kojidae
I finally passed the driving today. (After six months of paperwork hassles, lessons, and a test). If anyone else is from countries where you can't just exchange your license (ie- the US ) feel free to ask me questions if you are thinking about ...
Yes, there only seemed to be one instructor in Gabrovo who spoke English, and he was abroad when I wanted to start my lessons. I took the lessons and the theory in Bulgarian. Also, the proctors who give the practical exam do not speak English ... Read More
Got my Bulgarian Driving License! :)
I finally passed the driving today. (After six months of paperwork hassles, lessons, and a test). If anyone else is from countries where you can't just exchange your license (ie- the US ) feel free to ask me questions if you are thinking about ... Read More
Attitude to the mentally ill by TLDwrites
I spent a very long time in Bulgaria trying to find the right help for a Bulgarian national who is clearly suffering with mental health issues and his problems with paranoia were no secret in his community yet sadly were not met with empathy but by ...
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/concerns/autism.html Read More
Attitude to the mentally ill by TLDwrites
I spent a very long time in Bulgaria trying to find the right help for a Bulgarian national who is clearly suffering with mental health issues and his problems with paranoia were no secret in his community yet sadly were not met with empathy but by ...
Because that's all this conversation needs... people claiming that vaccines cause mental problems. <sigh> Read More
Attitude to the mentally ill by TLDwrites
I spent a very long time in Bulgaria trying to find the right help for a Bulgarian national who is clearly suffering with mental health issues and his problems with paranoia were no secret in his community yet sadly were not met with empathy but by ...
I agree that Bulgarians need to change their attitudes towards mental health, and if you look closely you will see that progress is being made, although slow. I am curious where you get the idea of "mental illness was then and still is ... Read More
are there families in gabrovo, tryavna region?
Hello. There are a few foreign families around Gabrovo. I haven't met them personally yet, unfortunately. I am American with a Bulgarian husband and two children (5 and 2) Read More
Type D Visa by calebusatobg
Hello, I’m supposed to be moving to Bulgaria in 1 week, but my visa isn’t ready according to the Embassy, as of this morning. They know my intended date of arrival, but I’ve been told they have no information for me. I’m ...
Everyone I've talked to from the LA embassy in the US has gotten theirs right around the 45 day mark. Read More
Cost of living 2019 in Bulgaria by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As we usually do each year, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
We're in Gabrovo (small/medium town central Bulgaria): How much does it cost to rent an apartment or a house in Bulgaria? How about buying an apartment or a house in Bulgaria? We pay 300bgn/month for a 100 square foot, two bedroom apartment. ... Read More
American moving to Bulgaria in 2020 by Dylanc78
Hello all. I'll be 42 in 2020, and am planning on moving to Bulgaria to homestead and live off of about $1400 a month pension with my wife. We both could work, but would rather focus on building a homestead. We are coming to Bulgaria over ...
Non-EU foreigners can easily set up a LLC to purchase regulated land such as houses with gardens. The only issue comes if they want to buy agricultural or unregulated land. Read More
Example of Bulgarian language exam for residency?
http://copuo.bg/page.php?c=24&d=19 The three links towards the bottom of the page are three different example exams. Read More
Dogs - food by Christiane V A
Yesterday a friend told us that Bulgarian people (Roma?) eat dog meat. Though we know this is done in a number of countries, we were quite shocked hearing this would also be the case here. Actually, we have difficulties believing it, but then ...
I can't imagine why it would matter unless you are regularly going to people's houses to eat with whom you can't communicate with to ask whether what they're offering you is dog. Read More
Naturalisation and citizenship in Bulgaria by Bhavna
Hello everyone, What are the requirements for acquiring citizenship in Bulgaria? For example, length of residence, language requirements, employment etc.. What formalities are involved in the process? What is the policy on dual-citizenship ...
I am saying exactly what I was told by the immigration office when I went in to apply. I'm fairly certain at the immigration office, they know what is required. Read More
New Green Zone Parking by GazzerG
Hi, For the past 6 years I have driven my Greek registered car to Sofia (Krasno Selo area) and stayed there with a friend throughout the winter. Whilst being there we use the car regularly. But I have just been informed (and researched myself) that ...
https://www.sofiatraffic.bg/bg/parking/pochasovo-plateno-parkirane/p/1 It is an issue because if you don't live there, you will have to pay the hourly parking rates. (You can still park there, but you must pay hourly and can only park in one ... Read More
Looking for legit Lawyer? Company? that handles BG residency by donk_316
Hello folks, I found a company in Plovdiv that was going to handle some paperwork for me but when i questioned their pricing (website was 500 euro and they quoted 800) they went silent. Since then i have been looking for another place who would ...
When you have EU citizenship, there's little reason to try to have it all sorted before you come. You have three months to sort it out when you're here, and as others have said, it can be done in a day with the help of a translator. Read More
Cheated by XXX power company by mr. nice7321
Can some one please give me advice on what to do about the xxx Power company I'm in Smolyan area , here's the story. Dear xxx, I returned to Tyryan Sept.. 2017 to find my power disconnected. I had filled out all the forms ...
They have a weird thing here that if you have a fine due for certain things, they have five years to collect it and then it is forgiven. (Makes sense to me- why would you even bother paying fines?) Different fines have a one year or three year ... Read More
Language barriers in Bulgaria by Priscilla
Hello, Learning a new language is a part of the expat process. Let's find out how crucial it is to know the language in Bulgaria. What is the official language in Bulgaria, and what are the other popular spoken languages? Is it possible to ...
I hate when people say it is a matter of laziness or lack of effort to not learn a language. Some people honestly have problems with languages. My mother has a hard time learning new words in English (her native language). She has trouble ... Read More
Buying New Household Furniture in Bulgaria. by ScubadiverG
Hi all, I was just thinking about when moving to Bulgaria, instead of all the Emotional upheaval and paying for transportation of household furniture, Bedding etc , are there Major Stores ( like in UK ) that deal in New Suites , Beds and Flat pack ...
Ikea has one full store in Sofia, but it also has order centers in Varna and Burgas, where you can go in and see the models of most furniture and order/pickup furniture. The one in Varna is quite large and nice. Read More
Buying New Household Furniture in Bulgaria. by ScubadiverG
Hi all, I was just thinking about when moving to Bulgaria, instead of all the Emotional upheaval and paying for transportation of household furniture, Bedding etc , are there Major Stores ( like in UK ) that deal in New Suites , Beds and Flat pack ...
Yes, there are several of these types of stores all over Bulgaria. More well-known might be Ikea and Jysk. Local are stores such as mondo, videnov, yavor etc. Newer ones are moemax (I think Turkish?).... If you do a google search for ... Read More
Overstaying repercussions... by OliviaFree
Okay, so long story short i have overstayed my Bulgarian visa free allowance. What will happen when i leave? Story longer, i am Australian my husband is French. We have moved to Sofia, however the lawyers we have hired to take care of the residence ...
I would also get another lawyer or at least a translator to go with you to the immigration offices. Some things to consider: Your husband most likely did not overstay if he has been leaving and re-entering Bulgaria. If he has a job here or is a ... Read More
FLIGHTS TO BURGAS FROM UK
Now that it's no longer summer season, it would be much cheaper to fly to Sofia than BOJ. There simply aren't as many winter flights to BOJ, and they are considerably more expensive. Read More
Getting Long Term Visa by Krezac08
Hey, So I am a student studying in a curatorial program at a non-accredited art space. I arrived in Sofia on the 90-day tourist visa on sep 11, 2018 so I would have to leave by decemeber 7th, but the program doesnt end until january. My Question ...
There used to be maybe 10 years ago. But now the requirement is you must apply in a country where you have residence. Again, ask at immigration because maybe they can work something out for you. But I wouldn't count on it. One thing you could ... Read More
Bank reference by EnglishinBulgaria
Hi guys. I have just got my moving in date as the 15th October 2018. My mum and brother will drive me to the property (from England to Bulgaria) to move all my belongings and possessions from one to the other. I do not drive - and so while they are ...
I've never heard of a bank mailing a reference letter. You ask for it, they print it and stamp it right in front of you and hand it over. Opening an account and getting a letter takes maybe an hour tops. I think once with me they had to run my ... Read More
Getting Long Term Visa by Krezac08
Hey, So I am a student studying in a curatorial program at a non-accredited art space. I arrived in Sofia on the 90-day tourist visa on sep 11, 2018 so I would have to leave by decemeber 7th, but the program doesnt end until january. My Question ...
Simple answer is: You don't. Bulgaria only allows people to apply for visas where they currently have residency. So you would have to go back to where you hold residency (in your home country) and apply for the visa. You would have to apply ... Read More
Healthcare in Bulgaria by JimAH1152
My wife and I will be retiring to Europe within the next few years. We love Sofia (wife is Bulgarian, I’m from the United States), but wanted to know how good is healthcare for older retirees in a city like Sofia?
I recall the insurance websites being (1) highly inflated and (2) little to no information in English. (But this was five years ago when I was looking). My recommendation is to get health insurance once you are here, if possible with a Bulgarian ... Read More
How long does it take to process a visa D to Bulgaria? by M3righ
Hi, My husband is a bulgarian citizen, i’m tunisian. I returned to tunisia to apply for a visa d, it’s been already a month since I applied with no response. Anyone applied for a visa D (to join husband/wife), please? How long did it ...
I would say even for foreigners, not hard if you follow the rules. (I am a foreigner). Read More
How long does it take to process a visa D to Bulgaria? by M3righ
Hi, My husband is a bulgarian citizen, i’m tunisian. I returned to tunisia to apply for a visa d, it’s been already a month since I applied with no response. Anyone applied for a visa D (to join husband/wife), please? How long did it ...
I wonder why you say it is a quite hard process. For spouses of Bulgarian citizens, it is quite straight forward and easy. One visit to the embassy to apply, the second to pick it up. The documents were not complicated, nor was the process. Read More
How long does it take to process a visa D to Bulgaria? by M3righ
Hi, My husband is a bulgarian citizen, i’m tunisian. I returned to tunisia to apply for a visa d, it’s been already a month since I applied with no response. Anyone applied for a visa D (to join husband/wife), please? How long did it ...
For me it was 45 actual days (not working days). I applied May 31, received it July 13. Read More
How long does it take to process a visa D to Bulgaria? by M3righ
Hi, My husband is a bulgarian citizen, i’m tunisian. I returned to tunisia to apply for a visa d, it’s been already a month since I applied with no response. Anyone applied for a visa D (to join husband/wife), please? How long did it ...
For me at the embassy in Istanbul, Turkey, it took 45 days after I submitted my application. They were very clear about when the decision would be made and I should come back. (I went back two weeks before, just to check, because my Turkish visa had ... Read More
Finding your bearings in Bulgaria by Priscilla
Hello, While technology has definitely helped us navigate ourselves more easily in most countries, it's not the case everywhere. How do you get to your destinations and navigate yourself in Bulgaria? Do you use gps systems such as google/apple ...
Google maps works pretty well all over Bulgaria, with decent navigation. I've only had problems in very remote areas, but that was around 5 years ago. Now, most areas have decent 3g or 4g coverage for navigation purposes. Read More
BRACES TEETH PRICE
I am unsure of what you are asking. Prices for braces vary greatly depending on how much your teeth need to be straightened, the duration you wear them, whether teeth need to be removed, what type of braces you get. In general, braces start ... Read More
Salaries
It depends on which city you are in. VT or Gabrovo pay significantly lower salaries than Sofia. Even Varna and Plovdiv have lower than Sofia... so... truly depends. Read More
Rent a flat in Sofia by Tobi S
Hello locals, I am going for work to Sofia soon and seeking for an affordable appartment. First I used google and found some good looking appartments on English-speaking websites. They looks like nice, but were overprisied. I would be comfortable ...
In both cases, if you are working with an agency, the 200 fee (half a rent) goes to the agency. You do not get it back, it is their fee for finding/listing the property. It is a standard fee that you will almost always pay unless you are dealing ... Read More
Rent a flat in Sofia by Tobi S
Hello locals, I am going for work to Sofia soon and seeking for an affordable appartment. First I used google and found some good looking appartments on English-speaking websites. They looks like nice, but were overprisied. I would be comfortable ...
There is no legal standard, so it is perfectly normal to either ask: 1) First month (covers your first month) Last month (covers your last month, so when you say you're moving out, you don't pay that final month) and 1 month deposit. In ... Read More
Rent a flat in Sofia by Tobi S
Hello locals, I am going for work to Sofia soon and seeking for an affordable appartment. First I used google and found some good looking appartments on English-speaking websites. They looks like nice, but were overprisied. I would be comfortable ...
Also worth noting- it is generally difficult to get your deposit back in Bulgaria. If an agency is handling your rent, it can be a little easier, but if you are renting directly through an individual, I would count the deposit as lost and if you get ... Read More
Rent a flat in Sofia by Tobi S
Hello locals, I am going for work to Sofia soon and seeking for an affordable appartment. First I used google and found some good looking appartments on English-speaking websites. They looks like nice, but were overprisied. I would be comfortable ...
alo.bg is similar to any other website where people can put up ads. I tend to use olx.bg over alo, but that's just because it's a bit more popular. I've never been scammed using olx, bazar, or alo. Both agencies and individuals tend to ... Read More
bike stolen in burgas by malone99
hi. unfortunately, today i realized that my bike (mtb, brand: CROSS, bought second hand in a bike shop in burgas, 450 lev.) was not there any more. i had it locked against the rails at ground floor of my apartment house. i realize chances of ...
Chances of seeing it again are slim, unfortunately. But it's a good idea to report it anyway, just in case you happen to find it. Then you will have a way for the police to help you get it back. Most cities have a social media group where ... Read More
Bike test by Jules999
Does anybody know what the legal requirement is here, to enable one to ride a 125cc bike? And where can I find information on bike tests and centers? Also, is it possible to take a bike test without being fluent in the language? Any advice is much ...
You will need an A1 to drive a 125cc bike. Do you currently have a Bulgarian or foreign B license? If you have a Bulgarian B license, you will only need to take a polygon test for your additional motorcycle endorsement. But if you do not have a B ... Read More
Household bills by EnglishinBulgaria
Hi everybody Without being too personal, I was wondering if it is reasonable to budget my household bills (electricity + water + rubbish rates) for about £60 per month. I will be living alone in a tiny 40 m2 house with a log burner. I am not ...
Electricity and water tend to be very cheap if you are not using electric heating... I've never had an electric bill over 100bgn for a 100 square meter apartment- and that tends to be in the autumn or fall when w use the electric heaters part of ... Read More
Running or jogging by cam3ronB18
Hi! For those who run and jog for leisure or sport, how? I'd really like to know how you motivate yourself on running.
I have found running in different countries/cities vastly different. In the US, I never got a second glance, whether I was on a street, trail, anytime of day or night. In Bulgaria I trained for my first two marathons. There, people thought I was ... Read More
Obtaining Residence Permit as Non-EU married to EU citizen by WCO
I have a South African passport and my wife an EU passport as citizen of Austria. We have recently purchased a residential property in Sunny Beach and it is our intention to retire there during September this year. She will then apply for a ...
The type d visa is not a residence permit. It allows entry in Bulgaria. However, if you are in Bulgaria for more than three months, you must still apply for a residence permit. (Even if you have a D-visa). They are two separate things, just for many ... Read More
Obtaining Residence Permit as Non-EU married to EU citizen by WCO
I have a South African passport and my wife an EU passport as citizen of Austria. We have recently purchased a residential property in Sunny Beach and it is our intention to retire there during September this year. She will then apply for a ...
From everything I find, if your spouse is an EU citizen AND has a valid Bulgarian document (meaning they have registered for residency in Bulgaria) you will not need a D-visa. If your spouse was not-EU (or was Bulgarian citizen) you would need a ... Read More
Obtaining Residence Permit as Non-EU married to EU citizen by WCO
I have a South African passport and my wife an EU passport as citizen of Austria. We have recently purchased a residential property in Sunny Beach and it is our intention to retire there during September this year. She will then apply for a ...
Oh, and here's the specific Bulgarian page: https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/residence/documents-formalities/non-eu-family-members-residence-card/bulgaria/index_en.htm Read More
Obtaining Residence Permit as Non-EU married to EU citizen by WCO
I have a South African passport and my wife an EU passport as citizen of Austria. We have recently purchased a residential property in Sunny Beach and it is our intention to retire there during September this year. She will then apply for a ...
Always strange for me, but it is actually easier for a non-eu spouse of an eu resident to get a residence permit in Bulgaria than it is for a non-eu spouse of a Bulgarian. :) That's the good news. You should just have to show proof of your ... Read More
Register for more than 3 months by trnrger
Hi everyone. I have just moved into a rented house in the Gabrovo area. The process was easy, I used Yantra Homes in VT and their agent negotiated a 25 euros reduction in the rent for me from an already very good price for a large 2 bedroom ...
The work permit is separate from the visa (some people with d-visa are allowed to work, such as students (although only a certain number of hours per week) and those married to Bulgarian nationals). But the d-visa itself does not give you permission ... Read More
English Bulgarian language barrier by guest1232
Good afternoon, As a native English language speaker the prospect of having to learn a new language with a different alphabet in order to go about effectively living in Bulgaria is somewhat doubly daunting. Even if one does not need Bulgarian ...
Oh google translate :) My parents were out for my wedding and they were using google translate with my in-laws when my husband and I were busy. All the sudden my husband's aunt comes in the room to get me, blushing furiously, demanding me to ... Read More
Long stay residency permit of permanent resident by notreve2
When applying for either one of these does a person have to prove they are employed [by a company] or show proof of self-employment? In other words, can a EU citizen live in Bulgaria for a prolonged period of time ...
As for overstaying the 90 days, they are technically supposed to pay a fine and then either exit and reenter and apply for a permit or simply apply for a permit. However, I have had friends accidentally overstay and just exit and reenter without ... Read More
English Bulgarian language barrier by guest1232
Good afternoon, As a native English language speaker the prospect of having to learn a new language with a different alphabet in order to go about effectively living in Bulgaria is somewhat doubly daunting. Even if one does not need Bulgarian ...
I have the same issue. I had basic Spanish from where I grew up as well as basic German from school. Not enough to hold a serious conversation, but enough to ask directions, order food etc. But now that I've learned Bulgarian, it pushes out all ... Read More
Life as a female expat in Bulgaria by Priscilla
Hello, While moving to a new country and discovering new cultures is definitely an exciting adventure, everybody experiences it differently. It can be particularly different for women, in both positive and negative ways. What are some positive ...
Overall, as a foreign woman in Bulgaria I feel safe. I have often walked the streets alone at night and not felt uncomfortable. I have safely hitchhiked... in fact, the only time I've been put in a sexually uncomfortable position was with other ... Read More
Bulgarian Medical Insurance by Unclefrodo
One of the requirements to get my Type D long term visa is to get Bulgarian Medical Insurance with a minimum coverage of emergency and repatriation of $50,000 for the period of stay. (I do not really intend to ever have my remains shipped back or ...
For my basic insurance I used Uniqa. It was just to meet the requirements, never actually used it as it really only covered extreme emergencies and expatriation. I found Bulgarian care to be cheap enough to pay out of pocket for. The uniqa foreigner ... Read More
Passport
If you have only the paper document (not the plastic card with your picture) you must carry a photo identification with it. If you have the actual card (which I think is pretty much standard now) with your photo and egn, you do not need to carry ... Read More
English Bulgarian language barrier by guest1232
Good afternoon, As a native English language speaker the prospect of having to learn a new language with a different alphabet in order to go about effectively living in Bulgaria is somewhat doubly daunting. Even if one does not need Bulgarian ...
Except for the ones choosing to study and work in Germany... in German, rather than English. (There are fewer of them, but definitely a lot who study German instead of English). Read More
Dealing with loneliness in Bulgaria by Priscilla
Hello, Expatriation can be a fun and exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit lonely at times. Please share with us some tips for dealing with loneliness. What are some potential factors that lead to loneliness when moving to ...
I have to agree with the pensioners and language bit. When my father came to visit me, he would spend hours with my husband's uncle and friends, smoking and drinking, not caring at all that they were speaking two separate languages. Read More
English Bulgarian language barrier by guest1232
Good afternoon, As a native English language speaker the prospect of having to learn a new language with a different alphabet in order to go about effectively living in Bulgaria is somewhat doubly daunting. Even if one does not need Bulgarian ...
Oh, and you might want to be aware that Bulgarians tend to be super proud of the Cyrillic alphabet (which is used in many countries, not just here). Just something to keep in mind before complaining about the alphabet when you are here. Read More
English Bulgarian language barrier by guest1232
Good afternoon, As a native English language speaker the prospect of having to learn a new language with a different alphabet in order to go about effectively living in Bulgaria is somewhat doubly daunting. Even if one does not need Bulgarian ...
Yes, this is true... being a guest in another country can be difficult- it can be more expensive for you than locals and more difficult to navigate. More people may take advantage of you. This is not just about language. Shopping can be difficult to ... Read More