Bulgarian type D visa - Guidance | Admission

Immigration Rules For International Students

In recent years, Bulgaria has become an extremely desirable educational destination for international students for both the quality and affordability of its programs.

EU Citizens Must Apply For a Long-Term EU Residence Permit

EU students do not require a visa to study in Bulgaria. However, within three 3 months of arrival in Bulgaria, they must apply for a long-term EU residence permit. This document is issued for a period of one 1 year and must be renewed for each academic year. Application for long-term EU residence permits can only be submitted after successful admission.

Non-EU Citizens Must Apply for Bulgarian Student Visa

International students from outside the EU must apply for a student visa (Bulgarian Visa - Type D). At the end of the student visa period the student must leave Bulgaria and he / she is not permitted to switch to any other visa route. Student visas are not granted for part-time courses.

What Is a Type D Visa for Bulgaria?

A Type D visa is a long-term visa that allows its holders to enter the Republic of Bulgaria multiple times. It is issued for the period of either 6 months or 12 months and is an essential requirement for all eligible applicants to be considered for a Bulgarian residence permit.

6-Month Type D Visa Granted to applicants who wish to enter the country and settle for a long period/establish permanent residency.

12-Month Type D Visa Granted to applicants who are students, carry out scientific research, or sent on a business trip (e.g. tourist services, investment preparations).

To obtain a Bulgarian type D visa as a student, you need to fulfill several requirements and provide specific documents, including proof of acceptance to a Bulgarian university, sufficient funds, and health insurance. You'll also need a valid passport, criminal background check, and proof of accommodation.

Detailed Requirements and Documents:

Proof of Acceptance: A letter of acceptance from a Bulgarian university or higher educational institution. This demonstrates that you've been admitted to a program and are eligible to study in Bulgaria. NB! Bank document issued as evidence of paid tuition fees (if applicable).
Passport and Other Identity Documents: A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay. Photocopies of your passport's personal data page and any previous visas/permits. Recent passport-sized photos.
Sufficient Funds: Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover your living expenses while in Bulgaria. This can be demonstrated through bank statements showing sufficient funds, typically at least six months' worth of minimum monthly salaries. The minimum monthly salary in Bulgaria as of January 1, 2025, is 1040 BGN, so you'll need to show approximately 6240 BGN (around 3000 EU/3,614 USD).
Health Insurance: Proof of valid health insurance that covers the entire period of your stay. The insurance must be valid in the European Union and cover repatriation costs, urgent medical care, and emergency hospital treatment. The minimum coverage amount is 30,000 euros.
Proof of Accommodation: Provide evidence of where you will be living in Bulgaria. This could be a contract for a rental property, a declaration from the owner, or other documentation.
Criminal Background Check: A criminal background check from your home country or country of residence. This should be a certificate of non-conviction.
Visa Application Form: A completed visa application form.
Translation of Documents: Certified translations of any documents that are not in Bulgarian. Additional Information: You may need to apply for the visa at the Bulgarian embassy or consulate in your home country. Visa D is issued within a period of up to 35 working days. Once you receive your Visa D, you will need to apply for a residence permit from the Migration Directorate in Bulgaria. You may need to submit additional documents when applying for the residence permit, such as a certificate from the university, proof of enrollment, and proof of payment of tuition fees.

Bulgarian Student Visa Embassy/Consulate Appointment

Supporting documents are just one of several factors considered during a visa appointment at the Bulgarian embassy or consulate. Each application is reviewed individually, and the staff may take into account social, cultural, professional, and personal circumstances. They may also assess the applicant’s intentions, family background, and long-term plans or prospects within their country of residence.