Recognition of a Foreign University Degree in Bulgaria

Published On: 15/12/2025

Many Bulgarian citizens and foreign nationals who have obtained higher education abroad decide to continue their professional and career development in the Republic of Bulgaria. In many cases, this requires the recognition of a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree obtained abroad through the National Centre for Information and Documentation (NACID).

It should be also noted that as of June 2025, a new requirement has been introduced in the Act on Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria and the university degree used for the purposes of obtaining an EU Blue Card or a Single Residence and Work Permit shall be formally recognized by NACID.

Below we will outline the procedure, required documents, and key considerations, in line with the established practice and structure of similar immigration and residency procedures in Bulgaria.

I. Procedure for Recognition of a Foreign University Degree

The recognition process before NACID includes the following main steps:

  1. Submission of the diploma and supporting documents to NACID
    The documentation may be submitted personally or through an authorized representative. It is also possible to submit the entire application package electronically using a qualified electronic signature.

  2. Verification of the academic status of the issuing institution
    NACID verifies the academic status of the higher education institution that issued the diploma, as well as the completed higher education program. Where applicable, NACID also verifies the academic status of the institution that provided the training, if it differs from the diploma-issuing institution.

  3. Verification of the authenticity of the documents
    NACID carries out checks to confirm the authenticity of the submitted documents.

  4. Negative outcome of preliminary checks
    If any of the above verifications result in a negative finding, the procedure is discontinued, and the applicant receives a written notification explaining the refusal.

  5. Assessment of compliance with Bulgarian state requirements
    This is the substantive recognition stage. NACID assesses whether the data contained in the diploma and diploma supplement comply with the state requirements for acquiring higher education in the Republic of Bulgaria. This stage is carried out only if all previous checks have been successfully completed.

  6. Decision on recognition
    NACID issues a decision for:

    • recognition of the higher education degree and professional qualification (if stated in the diploma);

    • refusal of recognition; or

    • termination of the procedure.

  7. Issuance of official documents
    Depending on the outcome, NACID issues:

    • a certificate of recognition;

    • a decision refusing recognition; or

    • a decision terminating the procedure.

II. Required Documents

The documentation required for recognition of a foreign university degree before NACID generally includes:

  • A color copy of the original diploma and the diploma supplement;

  • A notarized copy of the diploma and diploma supplement, certified by a notary in the country of origin of the document.
    Depending on the country of origin, an apostille on the notarized copy may also be required;

  • A power of attorney, if the documents are submitted by an authorized representative;

  • A personal data declaration;

  • A completed application form.

For regulated professions such as lawyer, medical doctor, veterinarian, and others, additional procedures and requirements apply. These cases require an individual assessment, as recognition of the diploma alone may not be sufficient to exercise the profession in Bulgaria.

For more information or legal advice and assistance, please use the contact form or reach out to us at pberg@berglaw.eu

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