Bulgaria
Residence procedure: Long-term residence certificate at the Migration Directorate
Official government websiteYour 7-step relocation checklist
- Step 1
EU Free Movement confirmed
As an EU citizen, you have the right to live and work in Bulgaria with no visa. Bring a valid passport or national ID card.
- Step 2
Find accommodation
A local address is required for most other steps (registration, bank, tax number). Check housing costs before you move.
Cost of living in Bulgaria - Step 3
Register your residence — Long-term residence certificate at the Migration Directorate
Deadline: Within 3 months of arrival. This is the local residence registration procedure required under EU Directive 2004/38/EC after your first 3 months.
Official government portal - Step 4
Get your ЕГН / Личен номер на чужденец (LNCh)
You need a ЕГН / Личен номер на чужденец (LNCh) to work, get paid, or open a bank account in Bulgaria.
Apply for ЕГН / Личен номер на чужденец (LNCh) - Step 5
Register with NHIF – National Health Insurance Fund
Once resident and working, register with NHIF – National Health Insurance Fund. In the meantime your EHIC covers necessary care.
NHIF – National Health Insurance Fund portal - Step 6
Open a local bank account
Most Bulgaria employers pay salary into a local EUR account. Bring your ID, proof of address and ЕГН / Личен номер на чужденец (LNCh).
- Step 7
Calculate your expected net salary
See what you'll actually take home in Bulgaria after tax and social security.
Open net salary calculator
FAQ — Moving to Bulgaria
Information verified for 2026 from official Bulgaria government sources. This guide applies to EU citizens under EU Directive 2004/38/EC.