Citizenship · Europe
Citizenship · EuropeBulgaria Citizenship by Investment (Closed)
Bulgaria's parliament abolished citizenship by investment on 24 March 2022. Permanent residence by investment remains available.
Decision summary
- Minimum investment
- Not applicable — closed. The former route required two investments of about EUR 511,000 (BGN 1 million) each.
- Important restrictions
- Pending citizenship proceedings were closed by the 2022 amendments.
- Program status
- Closed
Overview
Since 2013 Bulgaria allowed investors who held permanent residence through an investment of BGN 1 million (about EUR 511,000) to obtain citizenship with a further investment of the same size.
On 24 March 2022 parliament passed amendments to the Bulgarian Citizenship Act that ended the scheme and closed pending proceedings. The European Commission had long criticised such schemes, and calls to end them grew after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Investors can still obtain permanent residence in Bulgaria, which can lead to naturalisation only under the ordinary rules.
Investment pathways
- Investment pathway
- Closed. The former route was a second qualifying investment after obtaining permanent residence.
- Minimum investment
- Not applicable — closed. The former route required two investments of about EUR 511,000 (BGN 1 million) each.
Considerations, limitations and risks
Important restrictions
Pending citizenship proceedings were closed by the 2022 amendments.
- This program no longer accepts new applications; it is shown for reference only.
- Former requirements are historical and must not be relied on for a new application.
- People who obtained status under the program should take advice on their own position.
Status and authority
- Operational status
- Closed
- Official government authority
- Ministry of Justice, Bulgaria
- Legal basis
- Amendments to the Bulgarian Citizenship Act adopted on 24 March 2022.
Programme rules change; your advisor confirms every figure before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
When did Bulgaria end citizenship by investment?
Parliament abolished it on 24 March 2022 and closed pending applications.
What are the alternatives?
Bulgaria permanent residence by investment is still available, and we cover it separately.
Can I still apply?
No. The program is closed to new applicants. Speak to us about the open alternatives.
Discuss Bulgaria with an advisor.
Share your objectives in confidence. An advisor will outline the options that may be relevant to your family and circumstances.