How Ukrainian sailors can obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria without Bulgarian roots — explained by Visit Ukraine lawyers

Looking for a legal way to obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria without family ties? In this article, we have compiled all the available options. Find out how Ukrainians can obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria using a real request to the team of lawyers at Visit Ukraine as an example

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Many Ukrainians looking for a comfortable place to live and work abroad are considering Bulgaria. But is it possible to obtain a temporary residence permit (TRP) if you do not have Bulgarian origin, family, or official ties to the country? Yes! This opportunity exists.

In this article, using a real request from one of our clients, Visit Ukraine lawyers explain how Ukrainians — in particular sailors — can legalize their status in Bulgaria, what grounds exist for obtaining a residence permit, how the procedure works, and which option is the easiest to implement.

Request: Good afternoon! I am interested in obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria if I have no roots or ties to Bulgaria. In general, what are the options for a Ukrainian (a sailor by profession)?

On what grounds can I obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria – consultation with a Visit Ukraine lawyer

It is possible to obtain a temporary residence permit (TRP) in Bulgaria without Bulgarian origin or family ties. In your case, as a citizen of Ukraine and a sailor, the following legal grounds for applying for a TRP in Bulgaria are possible.

TRP in Bulgaria through business: registration of commercial activity (as the founder of an LLC or EOOD)

You can register a Bulgarian company (for example, EOOD) and apply for a residence permit as its director or investor.

Basic requirements:

● the company's authorized capital is at least 5,000 levs (~2,500 euros);

● the company must have actual or potential commercial activity;

● accounting and tax payments.

The residence permit is issued for 1 year with the right to extend. You can choose any field of activity — logistics, maritime services, IT, consulting, etc.

Residence permit through employment with a Bulgarian company

You can find a Bulgarian employer who will arrange a D work visa for you (with subsequent application for a residence permit). If you are a seafarer, this could be a company engaged in maritime transport, agency or logistics services.

Temporary protection in Bulgaria or humanitarian residence

Ukrainians can obtain temporary protection in Bulgaria — it has currently been extended until March 4, 2026. If you have not yet used this option, you can apply and obtain legal residence, and then switch to a residence permit through employment or business.

Other possible grounds for obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria

In addition to the above, there are other grounds for obtaining a residence permit:

● Residence permit for study (if enrolled in a Bulgarian university);

● Residence permit based on marriage to a Bulgarian citizen;

● Investor residence permit for investments of €250,000 or more (practically unavailable in most cases).

If you are interested in the procedure for obtaining a residence permit in another EU country or have migration questions regarding the legalization of your status abroad, please contact us for advice. Visit Ukraine lawyers will help you navigate all stages of the process, prepare the necessary documents, and ensure a smooth stay in your chosen country.

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Are there any special opportunities for sailors to obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria?

If you have contracts with foreign shipping companies, you can:

● register a Bulgarian company as a seafarer employment agency;

● use the company to conduct activities related to the maritime industry;

● or legalize yourself through remote work or a freelance contract with a foreign company (this is permitted under certain programs).

What is the procedure for applying for a residence permit in Bulgaria?

1. Select the basis: business, employment, or temporary protection.

2. Apply for a type D visa at the Bulgarian consulate.

3. Upon arrival, submit your documents for a residence permit to the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

4. Obtain a temporary residence ID card for 1 year.

What advice do Visit Ukraine lawyers give for successfully obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria?

In cases where you do not have Bulgarian origin or family, the simplest and most realistic option is to register a company (EOOD) in Bulgaria or obtain temporary protection with a subsequent transition to a residence permit through work or business.

For an analysis of your situation and the development of an individual strategy for legalization abroad, please contact Visit Ukraine lawyers for consultation and assistance. Our specialists can help you:

● understand the requirements of immigration law;

● choose the best grounds for a residence permit in the country of your choice;

● prepare the necessary documents for a visa and residence permit;

● submit an application to the relevant authorities;

● monitor the status of your application and the receipt of documents.

Order a consultation now and get professional legal support!

We remind you! In the previous article, Visit Ukraine lawyers already told you about the conditions for obtaining temporary protection in Bulgaria and the documents required for this – follow the link to learn more about the current rules.

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