Bulgaria Long-Stay Permit for Retired Persons (12 months, renewable annually)for 🇿🇦 South African citizens travelling to 🇧🇬 Bulgaria

📋Required Documents6

• ✓
  Clean criminal record certificate
• ✓
  Health insurance valid in Bulgaria
• ✓
  Proof of a stable pension or regular income sufficient to support the stay without working
• ✓
  National (Type D) long-stay visa application on the basis of self-sufficiency / retirement
• ✓
  Valid passport and passport photographs
• ✓
  Proof of accommodation in Bulgaria (lease or property title)

ℹ️What to Expect

To apply for a Bulgaria Long-Stay Permit for Retired Persons (12 months, renewable annually), book an appointment at the nearest Bulgaria embassy or visa application centre in your country. Submit the required documents in person or via a designated courier service. Processing takes approximately 30 days. The government fee is BGN 500.00. Plan well ahead of your intended travel date to allow time for processing and any additional document requests from the consulate. Always verify current requirements with the Bulgaria embassy or official government website before booking travel.

🌐Why South African passport holders need a visa for Bulgaria

South African citizens require a visa to enter Bulgaria based on the current immigration requirements set by Bulgaria's government. South African passport holders must apply through the Bulgaria embassy, consulate, or a designated visa application centre before travelling. Requirements are subject to change, so always verify at the official government portal.

🔗More Bulgaria Visa Options

• Bulgaria National D Long-Stay Visa — Type D (up to 180 days) →
• Bulgaria National D Student Visa (12 months, renewable per academic year) →
• Bulgaria Schengen Type C Visa (up to 90 days) →
• EU Blue Card Bulgaria (2 years, renewable) →