Exciting news for remote workers dreaming of a European adventure: Bulgaria has rolled out the welcome mat with its brand-new digital nomad visa program, and applications are now open!

This beautiful Balkan nation is quickly becoming one of Europe's most appealing destinations for location-independent professionals, and it's easy to see why. Bulgaria offers an unbeatable combination of affordability, stunning natural beauty, and increasingly sophisticated infrastructure for remote workers. From the energetic cafés of Sofia to the sun-drenched beaches of the Black Sea coast, digital nomads will find inspiring spaces to work and play.

The timing couldn't be better. Bulgaria recently joined the Schengen Zone and adopted the euro in 2025, making travel throughout Europe more seamless than ever. Imagine finishing your workweek in Sofia and catching a train to explore neighboring countries without border hassles or currency exchanges—it's the freedom remote workers crave!

What makes Bulgaria particularly attractive is its remarkable value for money. The cost of living remains significantly lower than in Western European countries, meaning your income stretches further while you enjoy high-quality experiences. The country's youthful, dynamic cities are rapidly developing coworking spaces, digital nomad communities, and modern amenities tailored to remote professionals.

Beyond work, Bulgaria promises unforgettable weekend adventures. Hike through dramatic mountain ranges, explore ancient cultural sites, or unwind at lively beach resorts along the Black Sea. The country's rich history, warm hospitality, and diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for exploration and rejuvenation.

So who can apply for this exciting opportunity? The visa welcomes non-EU and non-EEA citizens who earn their income remotely from sources outside Bulgaria. This includes employees of international companies, business owners holding significant stakes in companies registered abroad, and freelancers or independent professionals who've been serving international clients for at least a year.

The financial requirement is quite reasonable: applicants need to demonstrate an annual income of at least €31,000, calculated as 50 times Bulgaria's current monthly minimum wage of €620. This threshold ensures applicants can comfortably support themselves while contributing to the local economy.

The application process involves two main stages. First, prospective digital nomads obtain a type D long-stay visa from a Bulgarian embassy or consulate in their home country, which typically takes four to eight weeks. This visa allows entry into Bulgaria and serves as the gateway to residency.

Once in Bulgaria, applicants have 14 days to apply for their residence permit under the Digital Nomad Visa program. Required documents include proof of accommodation, a clean criminal record, health insurance valid throughout the Schengen area, and income verification. Foreign documents need Bulgarian translation and appropriate apostille certification.

The entire process can take over three months, but the reward is worth the patience: an initial one-year residence permit that's renewable for another year, giving digital nomads up to two years to immerse themselves in Bulgarian life.

Bulgaria's digital nomad visa represents more than just another remote work option—it's an invitation to build a life filled with adventure, culture, and community in one of Europe's most welcoming and underrated destinations. For remote workers seeking their next chapter, Bulgaria is ready to write a warm welcome.