Bulgaria is an emerging destination for international students, with its rich historical heritage, diverse landscapes, and cultural depth. The country’s universities are gaining recognition for their quality of education, particularly in fields such as medicine, engineering, and economics.
Beyond academia, Bulgaria is known for its warm hospitality, affordable cost of living, and vibrant student life, making it an appealing choice for students seeking a unique educational experience.
Non-EU/EEA students planning to study in Bulgaria for a period longer than 90 days will need to apply for a D-type visa or a long-term stay permit. The process begins with securing admission to a Bulgarian university. Once you have received your acceptance letter, you will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support your stay in Bulgaria. Typically, students are required to show they have access to at least 4,000 BGN (Bulgarian Lev) per year, in addition to covering tuition fees.
You should apply for the D-type visa at the Bulgarian embassy or consulate in your home country, providing the following documents:
The visa application fee for a D-type visa is approximately 100 BGN. It’s important to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to Bulgaria, as visa processing times can vary.
Upon arrival in Bulgaria, students holding a D-type visa must apply for a long-term residence permit at the Migration Directorate before their visa expires. This permit is usually valid for one year and can be renewed annually.
Bulgaria offers some work opportunities for international students during their studies. Students with a valid residence permit are allowed to work part-time up to 20 hours per week without the need for an additional work permit. This provision enables students to gain practical work experience, enhance their language skills, and support their living expenses.
After completing their studies, graduates can explore options to extend their stay in Bulgaria by seeking employment or engaging in further academic pursuits, subject to the country’s immigration policies at that time.
For further information about student visas, see our International Student Visas article.
See all universities in Bulgaria.
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