Permanent Residence in Bulgaria Through Investment: A Complete Guide to the BGN 500,000 Company Route

Published On: 01/12/2025

For foreign investors looking to establish a long-term presence in the European Union, Bulgaria offers one of the most accessible and business-friendly immigration routes. One particularly advantageous option is obtaining permanent residence (PR) on the basis of Art. 25, para. 1, item 16 of the Bulgarian Law on Foreigners (ЗЧРБ)—available to individuals who make a BGN 500,000 investment in a Bulgarian commercial company and create local employment for at least 10 Bulgarian citizens.

In this article, our team has summarized the main legal requirements, the investment criteria, and the documentation needed for the successful application under this procedure.

1. Legal Basis: Art. 25, para. 1, item 16 ЗЧРБ

Under this provision, a foreign national may receive permanent residence if they:

  • Make an investment of at least BGN 500,000 in the capital of a Bulgarian commercial company;
  • Hold not less than 50% of the company’s share capital as a partner or shareholder with registered (named) shares;
  • Ensure that the investment results in the acquisition of new long-term tangible and intangible assets valued at no less than BGN 500,000;
  • Create at least 10 full-time jobs for Bulgarian citizens and maintain these positions for the entire period of residence.

This route is designed to stimulate the Bulgarian economy by encouraging real investment and sustainable employment.

2. Key Investment Requirements

2.1. Capital Contribution of BGN 500,000

The company’s capital shall be registered in the Commercial Register, and the minimum investment amount—BGN 500,000—should be effectively paid into a capital subscription (accumulating) bank account.

2.2. Acquisition of New Long-Term Assets

Following the capital contribution, the company shall acquire new (unused) long-term tangible or intangible assets worth at least BGN 500,000.
These may include:

  • Buildings and real estate
  • Machinery and equipment
  • Vehicles
  • Other long-term assets with a useful life of at least 12 months

Asset values are declared annually to the Ministry of Innovation and Growth. Therefore, innvestors should consider potential depreciation—especially when purchasing machinery. To maintain asset value above BGN 500,000, many investors opt for real estate, which does not depreciate.

2.3. Creation of 10 Jobs for Bulgarian Citizens

The company shall open a minimum of 10 full-time positions for Bulgarian citizens. These jobs must be maintained continuously for the duration of the foreigner’s residence. Verification is performed through the National Revenue Agency (NRA).

3. Required Documentation for the Ministry of Innovation

To prove compliance with Art. 25, para. 1, item 16, the applicant must submit the following documents to the Ministry of Innovation and Growth (unless they are already available in the Commercial Register or in the Ministry’s files):

3.1. Bank Certificate

A document issued by a bank confirming that the applicant has paid at least BGN 500,000 into the company’s capital, as registered in the Commercial Register.

3.2. Annual Financial Statements

The company’s annual financial reports prepared under the Accounting Act, covering all completed financial years after the investment.

3.3. Proof of Acquisition of New Assets

A detailed statement of expenses for the acquisition of new long-term assets, certified by a registered auditor, or accompanied by:

  • Purchase agreements or invoices for machinery, equipment, or vehicles;
  • Notary deeds for real estate acquisitions;
  • Supporting accounting documents, inventory book entries, or depreciation schedules;
  • Auditor reports verifying the value and nature of the acquired assets.

If the capital was contributed in several installments, the value of newly acquired assets must correspond proportionally to the amount of contributed capital.

3.4. Proof of Employment

An official certificate from the National Revenue Agency (NRA) confirming that at least 10 Bulgarian citizens are employed under labor contracts with the company.

 

The investment-based permanent residence route under Art. 25, para. 1, item 16 ЗЧРБ is an excellent opportunity for foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish a strong economic presence in Bulgaria. With a strategic investment of BGN 500,000, acquisition of qualifying assets, and the creation of ten jobs for Bulgarian citizens, investors can secure long-term residence in an EU member state while contributing to local economic growth.

If you are considering applying under this category or need assistance with structuring your investment and preparing documentation, consulting with experienced immigration and corporate lawyers is highly recommended.

 

 

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