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Long-Term Visa for Retired Individuals – Bulgaria

Hassle-free visa processing for your travel needs.

Overview

The Long-Term Visa for Retired Individuals (Type D) is issued to non-UK citizens residing in the UK who wish to relocate to Bulgaria for retirement. This visa is designed for individuals receiving a state, occupational, or private pension and who intend to reside in Bulgaria on a long-term basis.

Eligibility

To qualify for the Retirement Long-Term Visa, applicants must:

  • Be a retired individual receiving a state, occupational, or private pension.
  • Hold a valid UK residence permit (Biometric Residence Permit or digital UKVI share code).
  • Have accommodation in Bulgaria (either owned property or a long-term rental agreement).
  • Meet all financial and health insurance requirements for long-term residence in Bulgaria.

Processing Time

  • Processing Time: Minimum 35 working days (may be extended if additional checks are required).

Your Visa, Our Priority – With our express appointment scheduling and expert guidance, your visa process is handled with ease.

Documents Required

Application Form & Photograph

  • Fully completed Visa D application form in English, signed by the applicant.
  • One recent passport-size colour photograph (as per consulate guidelines).

Passport

  • Must be valid for at least 18 months from the date of application.
  • Must contain at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

UK Residency

  • valid UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or digital proof of immigration status (UKVI share code).
  • Must be valid for at least 1 month beyond the intended stay in Bulgaria.

Pension Proof

  • An official document from the competent authority confirming the applicant is a retired pensioner.
  • The pension letter must be apostilled by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
  • The document must be translated into Bulgarian and certified by the Bulgarian Embassy or a licensed translator in Bulgaria.

Criminal Record (ACRO Certificate)

  • Police Clearance Certificate (ACRO), issued within the last 6 months, certified with an Apostille by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
  • If the applicant has previous convictions, an official rehabilitation letter from a solicitorapostilled by the FCDO, is required.

Proof of Accommodation in Bulgaria

  • notarial deed confirming ownership of property in Bulgaria or a rental agreement valid for at least 6 months.
  • notary-certified declaration from the property owner confirming their consent for the applicant’s registration at the address.

Proof of Finance

  • Bank statements for the last 3 months showing sufficient funds to support the stay in Bulgaria.
  • A document issued by a Bulgarian bank confirming that the applicant has an account where they will receive their pension.

Health Insurance

  • Private health insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical expenses in Bulgaria.
  • EHIC/GHIC cards may be accepted if they cover:
    • Emergency medical assistance
    • Hospitalization and repatriation
    • Death-related repatriation costs

Translation & Legalisation Requirements

  • All non-Bulgarian documents must be:
    • Translated into Bulgarian by an accredited translator in the UK or Bulgaria.
    • Certified by the Bulgarian Embassy or a licensed translation agency in Bulgaria.

Additional Information

  • The long-term visa (Type D) is valid for 6 months and allows multiple entries.
  • Upon arrival in Bulgaria, applicants must apply for a residence permit at the local Migration Office.
  • The same set of documents used for the visa application must be submitted for the residence permit application.
  • Embassies do not issue or renew residence permits and cannot verify applicants’ immigration status in Bulgaria.

Important Notes

  • All documents must be submitted with one photocopy.
  • The visa does not guarantee entry into Bulgaria; final admission is determined by border officials.
  • Any incomplete applications will not be processed.

Photo Specifications

  • Must be recent (within 6 months).
  • Plain white or light background.
  • Full face, neutral expression, no sunglasses or head coverings (unless for religious reasons).
  • High-quality print on photographic paper.
  • If the photo does not meet requirements, applicants may need to retake it at the visa centre.

Need Help? Contact Us!

+44 7700172127

sales@bulgariavisa.co.uk

+44 2035001584

Visa Charges

Below is the fee structure for our visa services.

Appointment-Only Service

For applicants who need an appointment and guidance but will manage their own documents and submission.

Service Processing Time Fee Includes
Standard Appointments within 6 weeks £99.00 Appointment, guidance, & document pack (Visa charges not included)
Premium Appointments within 4 weeks £199.00 Appointment, guidance, document pre-check & official visa form filling (Visa charges not included)

All-Inclusive Visa Service Packages

Comprehensive support, including documentation assistance and a smoother visa centre experience.

Service Processing Time Fee Includes
Standard Appointments within 2 weeks £395.00 Appointment, guidance, document pre-check, official visa form filling, complimentary meet & greet
Premium Lounge Appointments within 7 days (Priority submission, no waiting time) £450.00 Appointment, guidance, document pre-check, official visa form filling, complimentary meet & greet

Optional Services

Additional support for travel arrangements.

Service Fee Includes
Travel Arrangements £100.00 Flight, hotel, and travel insurance tailored specifically for visa purposes

Visa Solutions, Designed for You – With our deep expertise, securing an appointment and navigating the process has never been easier.

Need Help? Contact Us!

+44 7700172127

sales@bulgariavisa.co.uk

+44 2035001584

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