Why Fort Noks Orchid & Holiday Feels Like Home: A Local’s Guide to Coastal Living in Bulgaria

by Emily Parker | Apr 29, 2025 | Living Abroad

Where to Buy Property in Bulgaria?

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a place by the sea, the Fort Noks residential complex might be just what you’re looking for — whether you’re thinking of a solid investment or simply a comfortable new home. Built by a trusted developer, this community offers modern living on Bulgaria’s beautiful Black Sea coast, with a full infrastructure that makes both vacationing and year-round living a joy. Today, I’d love to share some of the latest apartment offers with you.

Let me introduce you to a place that truly feels like a hidden gem:
Welcome to Fort Noks Orchid & Holiday, a charming coastal community in one of the most picturesque parts of Bulgaria.

Invest in Comfort and Peace of Mind

If you’ve been dreaming of your own apartment by the Black Sea, where summer feels endless and the lifestyle is easy and relaxed, Fort Noks Orchid & Holiday is the place. It combines comfort, security, and thoughtful infrastructure for families, couples, and retirees alike.

Why Choose Fort Noks Orchid & Holiday?

Gated territory with 24/7 security so you always feel safe and cared for.
Just 500 meters from the heart of Bulgaria’s most popular resort, Sunny Beach.
Only 27 km from Burgas Airport and 100 km from Varna Airport.
Right across the road is the largest aquapark in Bulgaria — ranked among the world’s top 20 by Tripadvisor.
With 49 buildings and a reputation as the “greenest” resort complex in Sunny Beach, it’s a place where nature and comfort meet.

A Lush Green Oasis

Over 4.5 hectares (that’s 45,000 sq.m!) of the territory is dedicated to greenery — more than 67% of the complex! Picture yourself strolling through manicured lawns, breathing fresh ocean air, and even trying your swing on the mini-golf course. But this isn’t just about leisure.

Studies show that people living in greener areas experience 15% less stress and anxiety than those in dense city environments. Even more impressively, proximity to parks or natural spaces can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 20%.

The lush flora here doesn’t just beautify the landscape — it cleans the air, reduces noise, and fills the surroundings with oxygen. These peaceful green spaces have a real and positive effect on your physical and emotional well-being, making every day feel a little more like a retreat.

Everything You Need, Right at Home

There’s no chance of getting bored here — for kids or adults.

2 restaurants with delicious Bulgarian and European cuisine
9 swimming pools for both adults and children, with free loungers and lifeguards
2 fun waterslides for kids
Billiards, ping-pong, and tennis club
A supermarket and boutique shops
Currency exchange
Outdoor playgrounds and play zones
Open-air fitness zone
Hair salon, beauty studio, massages, and SPA services
Car rental services and free parking for residents and guests
Golf club with a 15-hole practice field

You can honestly live here full-time without ever needing to leave the complex — and still stay active, connected, and relaxed.

Kid-Friendly Fun and Education

Have a big family? No worries — your children will always have something to do in a safe and caring environment, supervised by staff and professional animators.

Preschool rooms with modern educational methods
Children’s discos and entertainment programs
Creative workshops: drawing, theater, and more
Sports clubs: boxing, dance, etc.
Educational programs: speech therapy, English language, and school prep

Choose the Best for You

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the terms for buying property at Fort Noks Orchid & Holiday?
We offer great conditions, including installment plans and investment programs. All the details are explained during our property info tour.

2. Are there apartments with sea views?
Yes! Most apartments offer panoramic views of the Black Sea or the complex’s beautiful green zones.

3. Is year-round living possible?
Absolutely. This complex is perfectly suited for both summer stays and permanent living. Everything you need is available all year long.

Join a Property Info Tour!

Want to see it all in person? We’d love to welcome you to an info tour where you can explore Fort Noks Orchid & Holiday firsthand, enjoy guided visits, and choose the perfect apartment for your needs.
We’ll take care of your hotel stay, provide legal consultations, and help you find your ideal home — all tailored just for you.

👉 Fill out the form to join us!

Bulgaria vs. Ukraine: A Comprehensive Guide for Those Considering Relocation

by Jennifer Collins | Apr 28, 2025 | Living Abroad

Bulgaria and Ukraine: Find the Similarities and Differences (Part 2)

Crime and Safety

As of 2024, Ukraine’s crime index stands at approximately 46.7, while Bulgaria’s is around 38.0. However, crime rates vary significantly across different regions.

Bulgaria remains one of the safer countries in Europe. Especially in resort towns like Sunny Beach and Varna, crime levels are notably low, making these areas particularly attractive for Ukrainian families. According to a 2024 survey, 85% of tourists visiting Bulgaria’s coastline cited high safety standards as a key reason for choosing the destination.

The Bulgarian Ministry of Interior reported a 6% decline in overall crime in 2023 compared to the previous year. The safest areas were seaside regions such as Burgas and Sunny Beach.

You’ll notice that shop owners leave merchandise outside, beverage coolers remain unlocked, and many residents don’t even lock their apartments — clear signs of a trusting, safe community.

Perfect for relocating with children, wouldn’t you agree?

Resorts and Leisure

Bulgaria’s Black Sea resorts like Golden Sands and Sunny Beach are increasingly popular among Ukrainians for both living and vacationing. Easily accessible by air or car, these locations offer stunning natural beauty, beaches, and mountain resorts.

Beyond beach holidays, Bulgaria offers diverse cultural excursions, historic towns, ancient fortresses, wellness spas, and ski resorts during the winter months. Historic sites like Nessebar and Sozopol are state-protected or UNESCO-listed, providing safe and well-maintained tourist experiences. Travelers can even purchase special travel cards — visit all locations in the catalog (most entries costing no more than 5 BGN) and receive a reward. No need to search online for your next destination!

Costs

Ski Resorts:
Bulgaria’s leading ski destinations, Pamporovo and Bansko, are currently more affordable than Bukovel in Ukraine. While Bukovel accommodations start at €100 per night, in Bulgaria, you can enjoy an “all-inclusive” stay from just €40 per night.

Summer Resorts:
Prices in Sunny Beach and Aheloy are comparable to Koblevo but more affordable than Odesa. Resorts are modern and free from old Soviet-era buildings. Accommodation in budget-friendly complexes starts from only 17 BGN per night!

Average hotel rates:

Odesa coast: €50–150 per night
Sunny Beach: €40–80 per night during peak season

Banking System

1. Services and Mobile Apps

Ukraine:
A major advantage of Ukraine’s banking system is the advanced mobile services like Privat24, Oschad 24/7, Monobank, and the state platform Diia, which allows a wide range of administrative services via smartphone.
Money transfers between cards are instant and usually free, contributing to the highly digitalized and user-friendly banking experience.

Pros: high level of digitalization, instant transfers, broad functionality via smartphones.
Cons: dependence on internet connectivity (though basic operations often work even on weak signals).

Bulgaria:
While Bulgaria’s banking apps (such as UniCredit Bulbank, DSK Bank, Postbank) are convenient and growing in sophistication, there’s no equivalent to Diia. Transfers between banks are possible but often involve fees.

Pros: user-friendly apps, ongoing digital transformation.
Cons: fewer integrated services compared to Ukraine, and transfer fees are common.

2. Terminals and Payments

Card payments are widely accepted in Bulgaria. However, small shops might require a minimum purchase of 5 BGN for card payments. Taxis, especially in resort towns like Golden Sands and Sunny Beach, often lack terminals or taxi apps — trips are typically arranged via phone calls.

3. Money Transfers and Fees

Ukraine:
Card-to-card transfers are usually instant and free. International transfers via services like Wise or Western Union are available but can carry high fees.

Bulgaria:
Domestic transfers via bank apps are common but often come with a fee. Many residents use apps like Revolut or Wise, which are free and easy to open. However, if a Bulgarian IBAN is necessary, you’ll need a local bank account — an account application fee can be up to 200 BGN, without guarantee of approval.

Internet and Digital Services

Bulgaria boasts a well-developed internet infrastructure, ideal for remote workers and online businesses.

Options include:

Roaming: Some Ukrainians still use Lifecell with “Gigabytes Without Borders” offering 30 GB/month for around 150 UAH.
Prepaid SIMs: Providers like A1, Vivacom, and Yettel offer starter plans from 6–8 BGN/month.
Contract Internet: Promotional plans start from 20 BGN/month for unlimited data and EU calls; standard rates are around 30 BGN/month. Contracts typically last two years, offering flexibility and reliability — no sudden service cut-offs as you might experience elsewhere.

Climate and Ecology

Bulgaria’s nature reserves, clean beaches, and mountain regions provide a healthy living environment. The Mediterranean-influenced climate, especially along the coast, offers mild winters and long, warm summers — a major draw for Ukrainians seeking to avoid harsh winters.

Ukraine:
Climate varies from temperate continental to subtropical in the south (Crimea).

Average summer temperatures: +20°C to +25°C
Winter temperatures: –8°C to 0°C
Pollution remains high in industrial cities like Kyiv, Dnipro, and Kryvyi Rih.

Bulgaria:

Predominantly temperate continental climate with Mediterranean influences near the coast.
Summer temperatures: +22°C to +28°C
Winter temperatures: 0°C to +5°C along the coast; –10°C in the mountains.
Environmental improvements have been notable, with Bulgaria ranked 43rd globally in the 2023 Environmental Performance Index.

Key ecological differences:

Black Sea coastline in Bulgaria enjoys a more tropical climate compared to Ukraine’s Odesa region.
60% of Bulgaria’s water bodies are classified as good quality, compared to much lower figures in Ukraine.
Bulgaria produces fewer CO2 emissions per capita (5.4 tons vs. Ukraine’s 6.7 tons).

Living in Bulgaria — A Conscious Choice

We’ve walked you through Bulgaria’s climate, safety, internet infrastructure, banking system, and vibrant resort life. Despite some minor downsides, Bulgaria offers clear advantages.

Are you already imagining your new life here?
How to make it a reality?

The first and most crucial step is to visit Bulgaria as a tourist — for example, through a real estate discovery tour.

During the tour, you will:

Explore potential properties
Receive comprehensive legal and financial support
Experience the local infrastructure firsthand

Book your real estate discovery tour today and start a brand-new chapter of your life in beautiful Bulgaria!

Bulgaria vs Ukraine: A Realistic Comparison for Expats and Investors (2024 Update)

by Jonathan Blake | Apr 28, 2025 | Living Abroad

Bulgaria and Ukraine: Spot the Similarities and Differences. Part 1

Ukrainians often compare our country to Bulgaria. Many myths and stereotypes exist that I aim to dispel here. Therefore, let’s delve into how life in Bulgaria truly compares to life in Ukraine based on my personal experience.

Today, we will discuss the tax system, language and culture, education, and real estate.

The Tax Jungle

Bulgaria’s tax system is notably more favorable for individuals and businesses compared to Ukraine. The personal income tax rate in Bulgaria is just 10%, while in Ukraine it is 18% plus a 1.5% military tax. Furthermore, corporate income tax in Bulgaria is also lower—10% versus 18% in Ukraine.

Employee social contribution costs in Bulgaria are approximately 18%, whereas in Ukraine, employers pay 22%. The overall tax burden in Bulgaria is around 27%, making it significantly more attractive for business and investment compared to Ukraine, where the rate reaches 41%.
A deeper analysis of the tax system will be covered in future articles.

From Cyrillic to Traditions: A Linguistic Journey

As of 2023, over 100,000 Ukrainians reside in Bulgaria, promoting the growth of the Ukrainian diaspora and cultural exchange. You will certainly find your compatriots here; some do not even bother learning Bulgarian, continuing to communicate in Ukrainian or Russian.

However, Ukrainians generally adapt to the Bulgarian language quite quickly, largely due to its similarity to Ukrainian. Moreover, the shared Orthodox traditions and cultural values make Bulgaria feel very familiar to Ukrainians. For deeply religious Christians, especially those who know prayers and psalms in Old East Slavic, Bulgarian will pose little to no surprise. For others, it will not be much more difficult either.

Why is that? Because the similarity rate between Ukrainian and Bulgarian languages is approximately 60–70%. Both belong to the Slavic language group, but Bulgarian incorporates more South Slavic elements and features a grammar structure significantly different from Ukrainian. Major differences particularly exist in verb tenses and syntax. Nevertheless, a substantial number of words sound similar, facilitating basic communication.

Bulgarian Education: What Will Surprise You If You Studied in Ukraine

Higher Education

Bulgarian universities, such as Sofia University and Varna Medical University, offer programs in English, with tuition fees ranging from €2,500 to €8,000 per year. In comparison, education at prominent Ukrainian universities, such as Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv or Lviv National University, costs approximately €1,500–€3,000 annually.

Secondary Education

In Bulgaria, there are both public and private schools. Tuition fees in private institutions range from €3,000 to €10,000 per year. In Ukraine, secondary education remains free, although private schools are gaining popularity, with fees ranging from €1,000 to €4,000 annually.

Inclusivity and International Students

In 2023, the number of Ukrainian students in Bulgaria grew by 20%, as many educational institutions adapted their programs to accommodate Ukrainians and created favorable conditions for foreign students. In Ukraine, although the number of international students is also increasing, the interest from European students has somewhat declined due to the political situation.

Language of Instruction

In Bulgaria, students can study either in Bulgarian or English, granting access to international student programs.

In 2023, approximately 2,500 Ukrainian students were studying in Bulgaria. In Ukraine, there were about 25,000 foreign students, mostly from India, Azerbaijan, and Turkey.
Additionally, degrees from Bulgarian universities are recognized throughout the European Union.

Comfort or Savings: The Housing Reality in 2024

In 2023–2024, Bulgaria became particularly attractive for Ukrainians thanks to affordable real estate prices, especially in resort areas. On the Black Sea coast, new apartments start at €700 per square meter, which is cheaper compared to resorts like Odesa or Kherson. Even in Varna, the average apartment price is around €1,300 per square meter, while in Odesa it exceeds €1,200.

Housing Quality

New developments often include leisure infrastructure such as swimming pools, gyms, and security services. Although Ukraine is seeing an increasing number of such residential complexes, older buildings still dominate the market.
In Bulgaria, residents pay an annual maintenance fee (approximately €500, depending on the complex) and can then enjoy facilities like pools and gyms without additional charges.

Legal Aspects

Buying property in Bulgaria is more transparent and straightforward for foreigners. In 2023, over 3,000 Ukrainians purchased property in Bulgaria, most of them on the Black Sea coast.
While buying real estate in Ukraine is relatively straightforward, bureaucratic delays are still common.

Investment Potential

Bulgarian real estate offers strong rental income prospects during the holiday season. In 2023, rental yields on the Bulgarian coast ranged from 5% to 9% annually. Ukrainian resort real estate is still developing in this regard.

Would you like to learn more similarities and differences?
In the next article, we will discuss climate and ecology, safety and internet infrastructure, the resort business, and the banking system.
We will find out whether there is an equivalent of “Diia” in Bulgaria, whether Ukrainians struggle with poor internet there, and where crime rates are lower.

How to Connect with the Ukrainian Community on Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast

by Michael Thompson | Apr 26, 2025 | Living Abroad

The Ukrainian Community on Bulgaria’s Coast: How to Find Fellow Countrymen and Become Part of the Community

Many Ukrainians moving to Bulgaria’s seaside are keen to maintain a connection to their native culture. They seek opportunities to communicate with compatriots and receive support in their new environment. In Bulgaria, especially in its resort towns along the Black Sea (Sunny Beach, Nessebar, Burgas, and Varna), the Ukrainian diaspora continues to grow steadily.

But how exactly can one find compatriots and become part of the Ukrainian community?

How to Find Ukrainians in Bulgaria

Social Networks and Messengers

Facebook and Telegram host numerous groups where Ukrainians living in Bulgaria gather. These platforms serve as hubs for exchanging information, advice, and news. Notable examples include “Ukrainians in Bulgaria,” “Ukrainians in Burgas,” and “Ukrainians in Sunny Beach.”

These groups not only offer answers to practical questions about life in Bulgaria but also present opportunities to meet fellow Ukrainians, discuss news, and offer mutual support.

Pro Tip: If you use Instagram, try searching by location tags. Posts under “Sunny Beach” often reveal interesting individuals and connections.

Ukrainian Cultural Centers and Organizations

Major cities like Burgas and Varna are home to Ukrainian cultural centers that organize meetings, cultural events, exhibitions, and celebrations. Important Ukrainian holidays such as Independence Day and Easter are often celebrated, creating excellent opportunities to meet compatriots and establish useful contacts.

It is advisable to monitor Facebook and Telegram groups regularly. Some groups conveniently categorize their content into sections like “services” and “events,” allowing users to quickly access current activities without browsing entire chat histories.

Cafés and Restaurants Owned by Ukrainians

In popular tourist towns along the Bulgarian coast, such as Nessebar and Sunny Beach, a number of cafés and restaurants owned by Ukrainians have emerged. Notable examples include “Noar,” “Pizza, Doner, Sushi,” and “Sunrise.”

Private Schools and Extracurricular Activities for Children

For Ukrainians relocating with children, finding schools where Ukrainian is taught or where Ukrainian children are present is a priority. Private schools and extracurricular activities offer not only educational opportunities but also a chance to meet other Ukrainian families. Macon is among the prominent Ukrainian educational institutions in the region.

How to Become Part of the Community

Actively Participate in Events

Attending cultural events, fairs, and meetings organized by the Ukrainian diaspora is one of the most effective ways to establish communication and forge new friendships. Consider attending:

Board game gatherings (available in Nessebar and Burgas — announcements typically appear on Facebook)
Bulgarian festivals, where you can find compatriots by language
Workshops and psychological support meetings
Brunches
Ladies’ gatherings
Concerts and performances (notably at Gravity Ruin Bar and Modern Theater in Burgas)

Engage in Volunteer Activities

Many Ukrainians in Bulgaria organize volunteer initiatives to support refugees, the ill, or those in need. Participating in these projects not only contributes to society but also provides an excellent platform for building strong, value-based connections.

Visit Ukrainian Shops and Cafés

Another straightforward way to maintain cultural ties is by visiting shops that sell Ukrainian products (such as “Berezka”) or cafés featuring Ukrainian cuisine. These places often serve as informal community centers, offering business cards of interesting individuals and event flyers. Even venues like Flora in Sunny Beach — though Bulgarian by origin and offering European cuisine — can often reveal fellow Ukrainians by language and demeanor.

Conclusion

The Ukrainian community along Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast is vibrant and growing. Social networks, cultural centers, Ukrainian cafés, and restaurants represent just some of the avenues available to preserve connections with native culture and to form meaningful new relationships.

If you are interested in discovering more about excellent restaurants and cafés opened by Ukrainians in Bulgaria, I encourage you to explore further.

Moreover, I regularly publish reviews of events, new establishments, and important developments concerning the Ukrainian community in Bulgaria. If you wish to stay informed about life in this country — from real estate opportunities to leisure and beyond — do not miss my updates.

Follow my social media accounts to stay connected with all the latest news and events! Your Bulgarian experience can be even more enriching when we explore it together.

Finding a Taste of Home: Ukrainian-Owned Cafés and Restaurants in Sunny Beach and Nessebar

by Emily Carter | Apr 26, 2025 | Living Abroad

Cafés and Restaurants Owned by Ukrainians: Sunny Beach, Nessebar, and Sveti Vlas

Over the past few years, Bulgaria — especially its beautiful coastal towns of Nessebar and Sunny Beach — has become a welcoming haven for Ukrainian entrepreneurs, particularly in the hospitality industry. The hardships of war and economic instability have inspired many Ukrainians to build new lives abroad, leading to a remarkable rise in cafés and restaurants proudly owned and operated by Ukrainians.

According to Bulgaria’s hospitality market data, since the beginning of 2022, the number of food establishments opened by Ukrainians has grown by more than 15%, especially in tourist-favorite coastal regions. These charming venues are more than just places to eat — they are little islands of home, crafted with love and nostalgia.

Why Are Ukrainian Entrepreneurs Choosing Bulgaria?

Bulgaria offers a business-friendly environment with affordable rental options and attractive tax conditions. Sunny Beach and Nessebar, being vibrant tourist hubs, ensure a steady flow of visitors from all over the world — including a large number of Ukrainians. This creates a natural demand for places that serve familiar tastes from home, a comforting reminder of one’s roots.

At present, there are over 30,000 dining establishments in Bulgaria, with around 2% proudly owned by Ukrainians. And this heartwarming number continues to grow, not just yearly, but month by month.

9 Wonderful Spots to Visit for a Taste of Home

Sunny Beach

Pizza, Doner, Sushi: Located right across from the bus station, this cozy spot offers delicious sets, vibrant cocktails, and even sushi-making masterclasses! Just a 20-minute stroll from the Fort Noks complex.
Sunrise: A two-story restaurant near Sveti Vlas and the Emona bus stop. They offer sushi delivery too! Close to the Green Fort complex — about a 15-minute walk.
Rollhouse: A small, vibrant venue right in the center, featuring a cocktail menu and a lovely summer terrace. Newly opened in mid-2024, it already feels like an old favorite.

Sveti Vlas

Oreha: A heartwarming Ukrainian restaurant hosting lively Ukrainian parties. Here you’ll find delicious borscht, varenyky, dumplings, and stuffed cabbage rolls — all at reasonable prices. It boasts two floors, with a sunny rooftop terrace.
Stella: A charming, slightly more upscale restaurant offering mouthwatering borscht and a variety of European dishes. Live music evenings add to its inviting atmosphere.

Nessebar

Mario: Opened in September 2024, this place has quickly become a gem for pizza lovers. Expect live music and poetic performances on weekends, all wrapped up in the cozy charm of Ukrainian quality and Italian soul. The summer terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy it all.
Noar: A lively bar-club offering karaoke nights on Thursdays and Sundays, and Ukrainian DJ sets with dance parties on Fridays and Saturdays. Just a stone’s throw from Mario.
Mistral: A delightful coffee shop in the heart of New Nessebar. Great coffee, tasty desserts, and a wide selection of teas. Many Ukrainians have even made it their favorite coworking spot.
Khinkali Bar: A welcoming Georgian eatery at the entrance to New Nessebar, boasting beautiful sea views and a relaxed promenade atmosphere. Affordable prices and a wonderful selection of khachapuri and khinkali make it a must-visit.

A Home Away from Home for the Ukrainian Community

For many Ukrainians who have found themselves in Bulgaria due to war or economic hardship, these cafés and restaurants have become precious sanctuaries — places where you can savor familiar flavors, reconnect with your culture, meet fellow countrymen, and catch up on the latest news from home.

Looking Ahead with Hope

The future is bright for Ukrainian-owned businesses in Sunny Beach and Nessebar. Many plan to expand, opening new locations and introducing exciting new dishes. There’s a growing demand for business breakfasts and community events, and entrepreneurs are actively supporting charitable initiatives, especially for Ukrainian refugees. Expect even more cultural celebrations in the future!

If You’re Searching for a Piece of Ukraine on the Bulgarian Coast…

…be sure to visit these wonderful establishments! You’ll be greeted with delicious food, warm smiles, and an atmosphere that feels just like home.

A Place That Feels Like Home

It’s truly comforting to know that even thousands of kilometers away from Ukraine, under the golden Bulgarian sun, you can find a little piece of home — a place where traditions, flavors, and the warmth of the Ukrainian spirit live on. Don’t be afraid to start your new chapter in Bulgaria — you’ll find plenty of familiarity, warmth, and community here.

And if you’re considering making the move even easier, we warmly invite you to join a real estate info tour with Fort Noks. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore the best housing options along the coast, visit residential complexes, and find a place where you can live and relax comfortably.

Fill out the form on our website to learn more about your new home on Bulgaria’s stunning Black Sea coast!

Temporary Protection in Bulgaria for Ukrainians: How to Apply and Why It Matters in 2024–2025

by Jennifer Collins | Apr 15, 2025 | Living Abroad

How to Obtain Temporary Protection in Bulgaria in 2024–2025

If you plan to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days, I highly recommend applying for Temporary Protection Status, which has been extended for Ukrainian citizens until March 4, 2025. This status provides several important benefits, including the right to reside legally, work, and reunite with your family.

Key Benefits of Temporary Protection:

Legal Residency
You are legally entitled to stay in Bulgaria throughout the duration of your status. This gives you much-needed stability and peace of mind beyond the basic 90-day limit.
Family Reunification
You can invite your close family members—spouse, children, or parents—to join you in Bulgaria for joint residency.
Right to Work
Temporary Protection allows you to work legally in Bulgaria without any additional permits. This provides you with the opportunity to earn a legal income and support your family.
Free Healthcare & Insurance
Children and pensioners are eligible for free medical services and health insurance.
Access to Education
Your children can attend public schools and kindergartens free of charge.

How to Apply

You can apply for Temporary Protection at the nearest police station based on your place of residence. For example, if you’re staying at the Fort Noks complex in Sunny Beach, there’s a nearby police department where you can submit your documents with ease.

How to Extend Your Status

If you already have active status and need to extend it, this can be done at a special police station located in the village of Banya, Nova Zagora, approximately 180 km from Sunny Beach. The extension process is fast—only about 15 minutes—and completely free of charge.

Useful Tip

You can extend your status without personal presence, as long as you have your passport and the expired protection card. This saves you unnecessary trips and simplifies the process significantly.

Getting your Temporary Protection status is a vital step for legal, safe, and comfortable integration into life in Bulgaria.

Temporary Protection vs. Residency Permit (ВНП)

The choice is actually simple—it depends on your long-term goals in Bulgaria.

Temporary Protection for Ukrainians in 2024 ensures the right to stay in Bulgaria until March 4, 2025, and grants access to residence, employment, and basic social services without extra procedures.
Residency Permit (ВНП), also known as a long-term residence permit, is a more permanent solution. Unlike Temporary Protection, it requires official registration, various fees, and is typically issued for one or more years with the option to renew.

Estimated Costs for a Residency Permit

Administrative Fees
- Registration fee: €110–€250 depending on the category (business, employment, education)
- Application submission: around €50
Health Insurance
- Mandatory annual insurance: approximately €100–€300
Document Translation & Legalization
- Translation and notarization: €50–€200 depending on the number of documents
Legal Assistance (optional)
- If you choose to hire a lawyer, the fee may range from €500 to €1000

The total estimated cost for a one-year residency permit typically ranges from €700 to €1800, depending on the type of residency and services used.

What’s Included and Not Included

Residency Permit (ВНП):
✅ Right to long-term residence
✅ Legal employment
✅ Access to social services
✅ Ability to purchase property and start a business
❌ No automatic access to full social security (additional insurance required)
❌ No automatic citizenship or permanent status after expiration

Temporary Protection:
✅ Right to temporary residence
✅ Access to the labor market, healthcare, and education
✅ Humanitarian support for Ukrainian refugees
❌ No long-term residence or business rights after expiration

Temporary Protection and Real Estate Investment

If you’re not just staying in Bulgaria but also considering investing in property, Temporary Protection allows you to remain in the country legally and with greater stability.

You’re welcome to join our Real Estate Info Tour, where we offer:

Guided viewings of selected properties
Comfortable accommodation
Full consultation and support

Don’t wait—take the first step toward your future property today! Leave your contact information, and we’ll send you the details of our Info Tour.

—

Jennifer Collins
Licensed Real Estate Agent
Trusted guidance. Local expertise. Your home in Bulgaria starts here.

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