Moving to Bulgaria is one of the best decisions many expats say they've ever made. But like any international move, it comes with a long list of things to sort out — and it's easy to miss something important when you're juggling a hundred decisions at once.

We've helped a lot of people make this move. Here's the checklist we wish everyone had before they started.

Before You Leave

Sort Your Documents

This is the most important step and the one people most often underestimate. Before you do anything else, make sure you have:

• Valid passport (at least 6 months remaining)
• Birth certificate (and certified translation if needed)
• Marriage certificate if applicable
• Any professional qualifications you may need
• Medical records and prescription details
• Pet passport and vaccination records if you have animals

Make multiple copies of everything and store them in different places — physical and digital.

Research Your Visa and Residency Requirements

EU citizens can live in Bulgaria without a visa but must register their address within 3 months of arrival. Non-EU citizens will need to research the appropriate visa category for their situation — whether that's a long-stay visa, a work permit, or another route.

The rules change, so always check the current requirements with the Bulgarian embassy in your home country before you travel.

Sort Your Finances

• Notify your bank of your move
• Research Bulgarian bank accounts (you'll need one)
• Understand the tax implications in both your home country and Bulgaria
• Set up a way to transfer money internationally at reasonable rates
• Build up a cash reserve — the first few months always cost more than expected

Find Somewhere to Live

Whether you're buying or renting, try to have somewhere confirmed before you arrive. Arriving without accommodation sorted is stressful and expensive. If you're buying, consider renting short-term first to get to know the area before committing.

When You Arrive

Register Your Address

This is legally required for EU citizens staying longer than 3 months. You'll need to visit your local municipality (obshtina) with your passport and proof of address. The process is straightforward but can be confusing if you don't speak Bulgarian — this is exactly the kind of thing we help with.

Open a Bulgarian Bank Account

You'll need a Bulgarian bank account for paying bills, receiving income, and generally functioning day-to-day. Most banks require your address registration certificate, passport, and sometimes proof of income. The process varies by bank.

Register with a Doctor

Bulgaria has a national health insurance system. EU citizens can access it, but you'll need to register with a GP (personal doctor). Private healthcare is also widely available and very affordable by Western standards.

Get a Bulgarian Phone Number

A local SIM card is cheap and makes everything easier — from dealing with local services to receiving verification codes from Bulgarian websites and apps.

Sort Your Utilities

If you're renting, your landlord should help with this. If you've bought, you'll need to transfer utilities into your name — electricity, water, internet, and potentially gas. Bills are typically paid monthly, often at the post office or via online banking.

In the First Few Months

Learn Some Bulgarian

You don't need to be fluent, but even a basic grasp of the Cyrillic alphabet and a few hundred words will make your life significantly easier. Bulgarians genuinely appreciate any effort to speak their language.

Get to Know Your Area

Bulgaria is a country of enormous variety. The lifestyle in Sofia is very different from a rural village or a Black Sea town. Take time to explore, find your local market, meet your neighbours, and discover the rhythms of life where you are.

Connect with the Expat Community

There are active expat communities across Bulgaria — online and in person. They're an invaluable source of local knowledge, recommendations, and support. Don't be too proud to ask for help.

Sort Your Tax Situation

If you're working, running a business, or have income from abroad, you'll need to understand your Bulgarian tax obligations. We recommend connecting with a local accountant early — it's much easier to get things right from the start than to untangle problems later.

The Things People Forget

• Pet import requirements — if you're bringing animals, the paperwork and timing requirements are strict
• Driving licence — EU licences are valid, but you may need to exchange yours eventually
• Prescription medications — bring enough to last while you find a local doctor and pharmacy
• Power adaptors — Bulgaria uses the standard European two-pin plug
• Home insurance — often overlooked, especially for property owners

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Moving to Bulgaria doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and the right support, it can be one of the most exciting things you ever do. If you need help with any part of the process — from paperwork to property to day-to-day tasks — we're here.