Bulgaria is an emerging destination for international students, with its rich historical heritage, diverse landscapes, and cultural depth. The country’s universities are gaining recognition for their quality of education, particularly in fields such as medicine, engineering, and economics.
Beyond academia, Bulgaria is known for its warm hospitality, affordable cost of living, and vibrant student life, making it an appealing choice for students seeking a unique educational experience.
Non-EU/EEA students planning to study in Bulgaria for a period longer than 90 days will need to apply for a D-type visa or a long-term stay permit. The process begins with securing admission to a Bulgarian university. Once you have received your acceptance letter, you will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support your stay in Bulgaria. Typically, students are required to show they have access to at least 4,000 BGN (Bulgarian Lev) per year, in addition to covering tuition fees.
You should apply for the D-type visa at the Bulgarian embassy or consulate in your home country, providing the following documents:
The visa application fee for a D-type visa is approximately 100 BGN. It’s important to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to Bulgaria, as visa processing times can vary.
Upon arrival in Bulgaria, students holding a D-type visa must apply for a long-term residence permit at the Migration Directorate before their visa expires. This permit is usually valid for one year and can be renewed annually.
Bulgaria offers some work opportunities for international students during their studies. Students with a valid residence permit are allowed to work part-time up to 20 hours per week without the need for an additional work permit. This provision enables students to gain practical work experience, enhance their language skills, and support their living expenses.
After completing their studies, graduates can explore options to extend their stay in Bulgaria by seeking employment or engaging in further academic pursuits, subject to the country’s immigration policies at that time.
For further information about student visas, see our International Student Visas article.
See all universities in Bulgaria.
Study in Bulgaria
Read our key advice article to help you make the best decision for your education and start your International study adventure.
In this article we look at how to approach choosing where in the world you would like to study.
Read av大平台's suggestions on your first steps when deciding where to study abroad, with helpful tips to make your decision easier.
Find out more about English language tests, your options and what is required as an overseas student.
av大平台.com take a detailed look into the costs of studying abroad and all the aspects that you should budget for when embarking on your studies.
We answer 10 common questions about applying for a student visa to help make your visa application quick and easy.
Find out more about international student visas for studying abroad, as well as how, where and when to apply for yours.
Find out more about funding and scholarships for international students, and what financial assistance might be available to you.
How to choose a course that fits you? Check our top tips on choosing which course is best for you to help you make an informed decision.
The latest articles from study abroad providers and av大平台.com to hep you on your study abroad journey.
