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Temporary residence for students
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Temporary residence for students
A residence permit in Bulgaria for the purpose of study is a long-term residence permit issued to foreign students enrolled in an accredited educational institution in the Republic of Bulgaria.
The residence permit is generally issued for a period of up to one year and may be renewed if the student continues to meet the applicable legal and educational requirements. Renewal may depend on the student’s successful participation and progress in their studies during the academic year.
Which foreign students can obtain a residence permit in Bulgaria?
Full-time students enrolled at higher education institutions (HEIs) in Bulgaria may obtain a residence permit for the purpose of study. This residence basis applies to students enrolled in regular (full-time) education. Students enrolled in part-time or other forms of education that do not meet the legal requirements for regular education are generally not eligible for a residence permit on the basis of their studies.
Obtaining a residence permit for a foreign student
A residence permit in Bulgaria for the purpose of study is a long-term residence permit issued to foreign students enrolled in an accredited educational institution in the Republic of Bulgaria.
Key Requirements for a Student Residence Permit in Bulgaria
- Legal basis. The residence permit for students is issued under Article 24c of the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria Act (FRBA). Under this provision, eligible foreign nationals are students admitted to full-time studies at a higher education institution in Bulgaria.
- Visa D. In general, applicants must hold a Visa D under Article 15(1) of the FRBA before applying for the residence permit. An exception applies to foreign nationals of Bulgarian origin who have been admitted to full-time studies and provide proof of Bulgarian origin; they may apply for the residence permit without first obtaining a Visa D.
- Educational documentation. The application requires documents confirming admission and enrolment in full-time studies, including proof of payment of the relevant enrolment fee after entering Bulgaria with the required visa. The competent migration authority may require additional documents depending on the individual case.
- Validity. A student residence permit may be granted for up to one year and may be renewed while the student continues to meet the legal requirements for residence on the basis of studies.
Special Features of a Student Residence Permit in Bulgaria
- Counting residence time. When calculating the period required for long-term residence, only 50% of the time spent in Bulgaria as a student under Article 24c is counted. This means that student residence does not count in full toward the five-year period for long-term residence.
- Changing the basis of residence. After completing their studies, foreign students may be able to apply for residence on another legal basis, such as employment or another applicable ground, provided they meet the relevant legal requirements.
- Residence after graduation to look for work. A foreigner who has completed full-time studies at a Bulgarian higher education institution may obtain a residence permit for up to 9 months for the purpose of seeking employment, provided they register with the Employment Agency as a job seeker within 7 working days after completing their studies.
- Extended validity for the final year. Under the current law, a student residence permit may be issued for 18 months when it concerns the final year of the student’s studies.