The Digital Nomad residence permit is a modern legal status introduced to support global remote professionals, freelancers, and tech-driven entrepreneurs seeking a stable base in the EU.
The Digital Nomad permit is a specialized residency track for non-EU citizens working for foreign entities or global clients.
1. Eligibility Limits
A Digital Nomad must prove:
- Annual Income: ≥ 50 Bulgarian minimum monthly salaries (gross) ( ≥ 27 533 €) for the previous calendar year.
- Foreign Entity: The employer or company must be registered outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
- Remote History: At least one year of remote work experience prior to the application (for freelancers).
- Local Restrictions: Prohibited from providing services to persons or entities on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria (for owners and freelancers).
- Proof of Housing: Evidence of accommodation, such as a valid rental agreement or property deed.
- Medical Insurance: Possession of mandatory medical insurance valid for the territory of Bulgaria.
- Clean Criminal Record: A criminal record certificate from the country of citizenship or habitual residence (for initial applications).
2. Key Advantages
- 1+1 Year Validity: Initial permit issued for one year, with a one-time extension for an additional year.
- Continuity of Stay: Guaranteed right to remain in Bulgaria during the renewal process, provided the application is filed before the current permit expires.
- Broad Scope: Available to employees under foreign contracts, business owners (with >25% share), and independent freelancers.
- No Local Employer Required: Unlike the "Single Permit," this does not require a Bulgarian employer or a local labor market test.
- 10% Flat Income Tax: Bulgaria offers one of the most attractive tax regimes in the EU with a 10% flat rate on personal income.
Example
A marketing consultant based in the UK (outside the EU), earning above 27 533 € and working remotely for at least a year, can obtain residency in Bulgaria without needing a local employment contract or incorporating a Bulgarian subsidiary.
This legal form is especially suitable for IT professionals, SaaS entrepreneurs, and creative freelancers looking for a low-cost, high-connectivity environment in Europe with minimal local administrative ties.
