Yes – citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland can live in Bulgaria without a visa. They enjoy freedom of movement rights, requiring only a valid passport or ID card to enter and stay, although they must register with the authorities if staying longer than 90 days.
EU/EEA and Swiss nationals have the right to reside in Bulgaria visa-free, as Bulgaria is an EU member state. No entry visa is required – they may enter with a national ID or passport and stay for up to 90 days without any formalities. For longer stays beyond 90 days, EU law requires these citizens to register their residence with the Migration Directorate (Ministry of Interior) and obtain a Residence Certificate (valid for up to 5 years). This registration is generally a simple formality; applicants must demonstrate that they are working, self-employed, studying, or financially self-sufficient (including health insurance coverage) in Bulgaria, in accordance with EU free movement rules. Once registered, EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can live and work in Bulgaria with rights nearly equal to those of Bulgarian nationals (no work permit needed). After five years of continuous residence, they become eligible for a permanent residence certificate (with indefinite duration) in Bulgaria, confirming their long-term right to stay. Importantly, failure to register by 90 days is an administrative issue (it may result in a fine) but does not nullify their right to live in Bulgaria – EU citizens cannot be expelled solely for not registering on time (Europa.eu).
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens are free to move to Bulgaria without a visa and should follow the local registration process for extended stays.
More Information:
- European Commission – Your Europe Portal: Residence rights for EU nationals – explains the requirement to register after 3 months in an EU host country – Web: europa.eueuropa.eu.
You Will Also Like To Know About:
- Visiting Bulgaria From Switzerland For A Road Trip
- Visiting Bulgaria From the Netherlands (and Northern Europe) For A Road Trip
- Can family members of Bulgarian citizens live in Bulgaria long-term?
Legal Disclaimer: The information in this article (part of the Stay in Bulgaria FAQ series—EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, UK nationals, third-country nationals, citizens of developing countries, digital nomads, and family members of Bulgarian citizens) is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and procedures (including Schengen/90-day rules, Type D visas, residence permits, and related EU/Bulgarian regulations) are subject to frequent changes; therefore, content may be incomplete or out of date. External links are provided for convenience; we are not responsible for their content. For advice tailored to your situation, consult the Migration Directorate (Ministry of Interior), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or a licensed immigration attorney. Last updated: September 2025.
