Are you curious how living in Bulgaria looks like? This article gives you a complete overview of what to expect: from affordable living and vibrant expat cities, to buying property, legal aspects, and relocation support. Whether you’re planning to enjoy the Black Sea coast, invest in a quiet rural property, or start a new chapter in Sofia, you’ll find everything you need to make informed decisions. And for a smooth, hassle-free move, discover how VanOnSite can support your journey from start to finish.
Why Move to Bulgaria?
Bulgaria is an increasingly popular destination for expats and digital nomads. Here’s why:
- Affordable living compared to Western Europe
- Mild climate with four distinct seasons
- Rich cultural and historical heritage
- Fast-developing infrastructure
- Growing expat communities in Sofia, Plovdiv, and Bansko
Top Reasons People Choose Bulgaria:
- Cost-effectiveness – Lower rent, food, and utilities
- Nature & Outdoors – Black Sea coast, mountains, and national parks
- Strategic Location – Great base for exploring Europe
- Healthcare Access – Affordable private and public options
Best Cities for Expats
| City | Description |
|---|---|
| Sofia | Capital city, cultural and economic hub |
| Plovdiv | Ancient charm, creative scene, affordable lifestyle |
| Varna | Seaside city, resort feel with modern conveniences |
| Bansko | Ski resort town popular with remote workers |
These cities offer expats a balance of affordability, community, lifestyle, and convenience. Sofia is ideal for those seeking employment opportunities and cultural events, with its international schools, business centers, and lively social scene. Plovdiv appeals to creatives and families due to its laid-back atmosphere, historic charm, and expanding infrastructure. Varna offers coastal living with a blend of beach leisure and urban convenience, making it perfect for retirees and sun-seekers. Bansko, meanwhile, has become a hotspot for remote workers and digital nomads thanks to its low prices, mountain setting, and reliable internet. Each city caters to different lifestyles but shares the common trait of being welcoming, livable, and affordable for newcomers from abroad.
Cost of Living Overview
| Expense Category | Monthly Avg. (EUR) |
| Rent (2BR apartment in city center) | €550–€800 |
| Dining Out (meal for one) | €6–€10 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5L draught) | €1–€1.50 |
| Loaf of Bread (500g) | €0.80–€1.20 |
| Butter (250g) | €2–€3 |
| Milk (1L) | €1–€1.30 |
| Gasoline (per liter) | €1.35–€1.55 |
| Cinema Ticket (per person) | €5–€8 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited) | €12–€18 |
| Utilities (3-person household, monthly) | €100–€160 |
Note: Prices may vary depending on the city and lifestyle choices.
Overall, the cost of living in Bulgaria remains significantly lower than in many Western European countries. Daily essentials such as groceries, transportation, and entertainment are affordable, making it an attractive destination for expats, retirees, and remote workers. Whether you’re renting a modern apartment in Sofia or buying fresh produce at a local market in Plovdiv, Bulgaria offers excellent value for money without sacrificing quality of life.
How to Move to Bulgaria with VanOnSite
VANonsite offers professional and stress-free relocation services across Europe. If you’re planning a move to Bulgaria, here’s what you can expect:
- Door-to-door removals from the UK or anywhere in Europe
- Packing & unpacking services with high-quality materials
- Secure storage options before, during, or after your move
- Transport of oversized or fragile items like pianos or antiques
- Full support with customs documentation and logistics
Why Choose VanOnSite?
- Transparent pricing
- Years of experience in European relocations
- Fast, safe, and secure delivery
- Excellent customer support
Bulgarian Cuisine: A Hidden Gem for Food Lovers
One of the true delights of living in Bulgaria is the food. Bulgarian cuisine is a rich fusion of Balkan, Mediterranean, and Turkish influences — hearty, flavorful, and made from fresh, local ingredients. Meals often include seasonal vegetables, grilled meats, yogurt-based sauces, and freshly baked bread. Popular dishes include banitsa (cheese pastry), shopska salad (with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and white cheese), and kavarma (slow-cooked meat stew). Whether dining out or cooking at home, food in Bulgaria is not only delicious but also very affordable. Farmers’ markets are widespread, and even in cities, you can eat out at local restaurants for a fraction of the price compared to Western Europe.
Living in Bulgaria: Residency & Legal Aspects
- EU Citizens can live and work in Bulgaria freely
- Non-EU Citizens need a visa and/or residence permit
- Long-term residence available through work, study, or business
- Health insurance is required for residency permits
Residency and Legal Aspects of Living in Bulgaria
Relocating to Bulgaria requires understanding different legal requirements depending on your country of origin.
For EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens:
- Visa-free access for entry, residence, and work.
- After 90 days, you must register your stay with the local Migration Directorate and apply for a Certificate of Long-Term Residence.
- Required documents: passport/ID, proof of address, health insurance, and sufficient funds or employment proof.
- You may be issued a Bulgarian residence card, often referred to as a “green card”.
For Non-EU Citizens:
- You’ll need a Type D long-stay visa, typically for employment, business, study, or family reunification.
- After entering Bulgaria with the visa, apply for a residence permit at the local Migration Office within 90 days.
- A temporary residence permit is usually valid for 1 year and can be extended.
- After 5 years of continuous stay, you may apply for permanent residency.
Bulgarian Residence Cards:
| Card Type | Validity | Eligibility |
| Long-Term EU Resident | 5 years | 5 years of uninterrupted residence |
| Permanent Residence Card | Indefinite | Available after 5 years or special cases |
| Temporary Residence Card | 1 year | Renewed annually with valid grounds |
Notes for Specific Countries:
- UK Citizens (post-Brexit): Treated as non-EU citizens; require visas and residence permits.
- Schengen-area countries: Bulgaria is not in Schengen (as of now), but travel is generally smooth for EU citizens.
- Western Balkan states: Visa-free agreements with simplified procedures apply in many cases.
Whether you’re moving for work, retirement, or lifestyle change, it’s recommended to start residency paperwork as early as possible. VanOnSite can help coordinate documentation, logistics, and official requirements for a hassle-free experience.
Buying Property in Bulgaria
- Foreigners can buy buildings, but not land directly (unless EU citizen)
- Property prices are low compared to most European countries
- Great investment potential in coastal and rural areas
Why Buying Property in Bulgaria is a Smart Move
Bulgaria’s real estate market is among the most affordable in Europe, offering incredible value for both investors and lifestyle buyers. Properties in popular rural regions and coastal areas can often be purchased for a fraction of the price you’d pay in Western Europe. In addition to affordability, Bulgaria boasts a stable property registration system, no restrictions on EU citizens buying homes, and relatively low annual property taxes. Whether you’re seeking a holiday home, a rental investment, or a full-time residence, Bulgaria offers a broad range of choices, from modern apartments in Sofia to traditional stone cottages in picturesque mountain villages.
Retirement in Bulgaria
Retirees are increasingly drawn to Bulgaria for its peaceful environment, low living costs, and warm hospitality. With a mild climate, affordable healthcare, and a slower pace of life, the country provides an ideal setting for those seeking a relaxed retirement lifestyle. Many small towns and villages offer serene surroundings, vibrant local traditions, and proximity to natural beauty such as the Rhodope Mountains or the Black Sea coast. Pensioners from EU countries face minimal bureaucracy, while non-EU retirees can still benefit from accessible long-term stay options through residence permits. With access to fresh local food, safe communities, and quality amenities, Bulgaria is becoming a favored destination for European retirement migration.
Popular Property Types:
- Apartments in city centers
- Rural houses with land
- Coastal villas and mountain chalets
Pros & Cons of Living in Bulgaria
| Pros | Cons | |
| Low cost of living | Language barrier (Bulgarian is Cyrillic) | |
| Diverse geography & climate | Bureaucracy and slow processes | |
| Easy access to other EU countries | Healthcare quality can vary | |
| Rich history & traditions | Limited work options outside | |
| Beautiful landscapes & scenic nature | Some regional disparities in development | |
| Tasty, affordable local cuisine | Public transport less developed in rural areas | |
| Open and friendly local culture | Winter heating costs can be high in some regions | |
| Low crime rates & safe communities | Language barrier (Bulgarian alphabet is Cyrillic) | |
| Cheap groceries and daily shopping | Healthcare varies in rural vs urban areas | |
| Budget-friendly rent and utilities | Slower pace of administration/bureaucracy | Limited work options outside tech/remote |
Final Thoughts
Living in Bulgaria offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences. Whether you’re after nature, culture, or lower costs — this hidden gem in Southeast Europe has something for everyone.
And when you’re ready to move, VanOnSite is your reliable partner for seamless European relocations.
Visit VanOnSite – Removals to Bulgaria to start your journey today!
Summary
Bulgaria stands out as a desirable expat destination thanks to its low cost of living, diverse landscapes, warm hospitality, and well-connected cities. Whether you’re seeking an active city life, peaceful retirement, or remote work opportunities, the country offers a lifestyle that combines affordability with natural and cultural richness. With favorable property prices, accessible healthcare, and an open, safe society, Bulgaria continues to attract people from all over Europe and beyond. With the support of experienced movers like VanOnSite, transitioning to your new life in Bulgaria can be smooth and worry-free.
