HOW TO BECOME A BULGARIAN CITIZEN?

There are several ways to become a Bulgarian citizen. These processes citizenship by birth, citizenship by marriage, citizenship by long-term residence , and citizenship by investment . Detailed information on the ways to become a Bulgarian citizen and the application process is provided below:

1. Citizenship by Birth (Jus Sanguinis and Jus Soli)

In Bulgaria, citizenship is generally jus sanguinis (blood relation). However, in some cases, jus soli (place of birth) also applies.

• Children born to Bulgarian parents: Children whose one or both parents are Bulgarian citizens automatically become Bulgarian citizens. The place of birth is irrelevant.
• Stateless children born in Bulgaria: If a child is born in Bulgaria and is not a citizen of another country, they may be entitled to Bulgarian citizenship.

2. Citizenship through Marriage

Foreigners who marry a Bulgarian citizen can apply for citizenship by fulfilling certain conditions. However, marriage does not automatically grant citizenship. The following conditions are required to become a Bulgarian citizen through marriage:

• Marriage Duration : The marriage to a Bulgarian citizen must have lasted at least 3 years
• Residence Permit : After marriage , it is necessary to reside legally in Bulgaria for at least 5 years with a valid residence permit
• Language Skills: Knowledge of the Bulgarian language may be required, as proof of language proficiency is necessary for the citizenship application.

3. Citizenship through Long-Term Residence (Naturalization)

Foreigners who have resided in Bulgaria for a long time can apply for naturalization . The basic requirements for this process are as follows:

• Residence Period : The applicant must have resided legally in Bulgaria continuously for 10 years . A residence permit must be obtained during this period
• Permanent Residence Permit: Applicants must possess a permanent residence permit valid for a period of 5 years. During this period, they must not spend more than 30 days in total outside of Bulgaria.
• Economic Independence: The applicant must prove that they have sufficient financial means to support themselves in Bulgaria.
• Language Proficiency: Applicants must have a command of the Bulgarian language. A language test may be administered during the application process.
• Criminal Record: Applicants must have a clean criminal record.
• Good Conduct: The individual must not engage in any behavior that would disrupt public order or pose a threat to Bulgaria's security.

4. Citizenship by Investment

Bulgaria offers a program that allows obtaining citizenship through investment. The basic conditions for obtaining Bulgarian citizenship through investment are as follows:

• Investment Amount : To become a Bulgarian citizen, a minimum investment of €512,000 is required. This investment must be made in government bonds
• Two-Year Process: Following the initial investment, you must reside in Bulgaria with a permanent residence permit for five years. Once this period is complete, you can apply for citizenship.
• Accelerated Citizenship Program: Additionally, this process can be accelerated by making a second investment. This allows you to obtain citizenship within one year.

5. Citizenship as a Refugee or Asylum Seeker

Individuals who have been granted refugee or asylum seeker status in Bulgaria can also apply for citizenship after residing in Bulgaria for a certain period. However, this process is longer and more complex compared to other application methods.

6. Being of Bulgarian Origin

For individuals of Bulgarian origin, applying for citizenship may be easier. If a person can prove their Bulgarian ancestry, the long-term residency requirement for citizenship application may be relaxed. To prove Bulgarian ancestry, the person must provide official documents showing their family history.

7. Dual nationality

Bulgaria dual citizenship . This means that you do not have to relinquish your current citizenship when you become a Bulgarian citizen. However, it is important to know whether the applicant's country of citizenship also accepts dual citizenship.

8. Citizenship Application Process

Individuals wishing to apply for Bulgarian citizenship must begin the process by submitting the required documents. The generally required documents are as follows:

• Passports and identity documents
• Birth certificate
• Rap sheet
• Bulgarian language proficiency certificate (if required)
• Residence permit documents (for long-term residence)
• Marriage certificates (for applications through marriage)
• Documents proving economic status

Applications are submitted through the Ministry of Internal Affairs and immigration offices in Bulgaria. The application process can take anywhere from a few months to a year to complete.

Conclusion

There are several different ways to apply for Bulgarian citizenship. Applications can be made through birth, marriage, long-term residency, or investment. Each method requires specific conditions and documentation. Factors such as language proficiency, financial independence, criminal record, and length of residency are critical in this process. The possibility of dual citizenship varies depending on the applicant's nationality.

Intern Law Faculty Student

Mert Emir Balci