Bulgaria – Volunteer

Are you a non-EU citizen wishing to be a volunteer in Bulgaria? You can find information below on the conditions to fulfil and procedures to follow, as well as the rights you can enjoy during your stay.

Youth volunteers who are nationals of third countries may obtain permission to reside in the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria in order to be involved in youth volunteering within the European Voluntary Service in accordance with the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act.

You need to conclude an agreement with a host organisation in the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria.

The agreement must include:

  • a description of the activity;
  • duration;
  • the place of implementation;
  • the control over the implementation;
  • the terms and conditions for covering the subsistence and accommodation costs of the volunteer;
  • the preliminary training the volunteer shall undergo.

The validity term of the permit under Paragraph (1) shall take into account the duration of the agreement with the receiving organisation, but shall not exceed one year.

You must obtain:

  • a long-stay visa (“type D”), if needed; and
  • a residence permit.

Where and how to apply

Visa

Once you have obtained a signed agreement with a host organisation in the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, you must obtain a visa “type D” at the Bulgarian embassy or consulate in your home country.

Residence permit

Once you have arrived in Bulgaria with your valid visa (in case you need a visa to enter the country), you must also obtain a residence permit from the Migration Directorate after you enter Bulgaria.

Documents required

To obtain a visa, you must submit the following documents:

  • document for paid state fee under Tariff No 4 on the Fees Collected in the System of the Ministry of Interior under the State Fees Act;
  • photocopy of the page of the transborder travel document containing the photo, the personal data, the entry visa and the stamp of the last entry in the country;
  • signed agreement with a host organisation in the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria;
  • accommodation;
  • health insurance.

Duration of validity of permits

The duration of your residence permit is aligned with the duration of your agreement but no more than one year.

Further requirements

After you arrive, you have five days to notify your address of residence to the competent authorities.

Appeals

Decisions related to permits can be challenged before local administrative courts within 14 days.

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