Student visa to Bulgaria   

Many international students studying in Bulgaria are curious about the possibility of traveling to other Schengen Zone countries with a Bulgarian student visa. Since Bulgaria is a member of the European Union (EU) but not part of the Schengen Zone, the rules concerning travel to other EU countries and the Schengen Agreement can be confusing. This article examines the legal aspects of using a Bulgarian student visa for trips to the Schengen Zone, legal restrictions, and opportunities for students.

Legal Foundation

Bulgaria has been a member of the European Union since 2007; however, it has not yet joined the Schengen Zone. This means that Bulgaria applies some norms of the Schengen Agreement while maintaining its own visa regime, which differs from Schengen Zone countries. The main provisions of Bulgaria's visa regime are governed by the Foreign Nationals Act (Law No. 78/1998) and the EU Visa Code (Regulation (EU) No. 810/2009).

Bulgarian Student Visa and Its Status

The Bulgarian student visa (Category D) is a long-term national visa issued to foreign nationals for study programs lasting more than 90 days. This visa allows the holder to stay in Bulgaria and grants the right to apply for a residence permit, which is extended for the duration of the studies. However, the Bulgarian visa is not a Schengen visa and does not automatically grant the right to enter other Schengen Agreement countries.

Bulgaria's Position in the Context of the Schengen Zone

As of the writing of this article, Bulgaria is not a full member of the Schengen Agreement, despite its aspirations for future integration into the Schengen Zone. This means that Bulgaria's visa regime differs from those of Schengen Zone countries like Germany, France, Spain, and others. The student visa issued by Bulgaria only allows its holder to stay within Bulgaria.

Can You Use a Bulgarian Student Visa for Travel to the Schengen Zone?

The short answer is: no, the Bulgarian student visa does not grant the right to freely travel to Schengen Zone countries.

Explanation:

1. The Bulgarian national visa (Category D) is a long-term visa, but it is valid only in Bulgaria and does not allow the holder to travel to Schengen Zone countries.


2. To visit Schengen Agreement countries (e.g., Germany, France, Spain, etc.), students holding a Bulgarian visa will need a separate Schengen visa unless they are citizens of countries with a visa-free regime with the Schengen Zone.

Exception for Short Stays

Holders of Bulgarian residence permits issued on the basis of a Category D student visa are allowed to make short trips to Schengen Zone countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This rule applies based on agreements between Bulgaria and the Schengen Zone, allowing residence permit holders to make short trips similar to those permitted with Schengen visas.

Example:

• A student with a long-term Category D visa and a residence permit in Bulgaria can visit Schengen Zone countries (e.g., Germany or France) for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without needing to obtain a separate Schengen visa.

How to Obtain a Schengen Visa for Students in Bulgaria?

If a student studying in Bulgaria plans to travel to Schengen Zone countries for more than 90 days or for purposes other than tourism, they will need to obtain a Schengen visa. The procedure for obtaining a Schengen visa for students is as follows:

1. Visa Application: The application for a Schengen visa must be submitted to the consulate of the Schengen Zone country that the student plans to visit. Applications can be submitted both in Bulgaria and in the student's country of residence.


2. Required Documents:
   
   
   
   • Passport.
   
   
   • Residence permit in Bulgaria (if applicable).
   
   
   • Visa application form.
   
   
   • Proof of purpose of travel (e.g., invitation letter or travel itinerary).
   
   
   • Proof of financial means.
   
   
   • Health insurance with coverage of at least €30,000, valid in the Schengen Zone.
   
   
   • Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or rental agreement).
   
   
   
   


3. Processing Times: Depending on the country and purpose of travel, processing times can range from 10 to 30 days.


4. Type of Visa: For short trips related to tourism or attending conferences, students can obtain a Schengen visa (Category C), which allows for short visits to Schengen Zone countries.

Important Legal Aspects

1. No Right to Work in the Schengen Zone: Even if a student obtains a Schengen visa for travel to Schengen Agreement countries, such a visa does not grant the right to work. Separate work permits are required for employment in the Schengen Zone.


2. Compliance with Visa Regulations: Students must keep track of their stay in Schengen Zone countries. Overstaying can lead to penalties, including visa cancellation and a ban on re-entry to Schengen Zone countries.


3. Residence Permit: The right to short trips to the Schengen Zone applies only to students with a valid residence permit in Bulgaria. If the permit expires, the student must renew it to maintain the right to travel.

The Bulgarian student visa (Category D) does not grant the right to freely travel to Schengen Zone countries. However, international students with a Bulgarian residence permit can visit Schengen Zone countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. For travel beyond short stays, students must obtain a Schengen visa through the relevant country’s consulates. It is essential to follow visa regulations and comply with established stay durations to avoid legal consequences.

One of the key requirements for obtaining a student visa in Bulgaria is the applicant's proof of financial stability. This aspect plays a crucial role in the visa application process, as Bulgarian authorities need to ensure that international students can independently cover all expenses related to accommodation, education, and medical services during their stay in the country. This article delves into the banking balance requirements for obtaining a student visa in Bulgaria based on current immigration legislation.

Legal Foundation

The requirements for proving financial stability are regulated by the Law on Foreign Nationals in the Republic of Bulgaria (Law No. 78/1998) and Government Ordinance No. 14/2009, which defines the rules for submitting and processing visa applications for foreign citizens. According to these regulations, international students must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves during their studies, which is a mandatory condition for obtaining a long-term student visa (Category D).

Minimum Financial Requirements for a Student Visa

To obtain a long-term student visa (Category D), the applicant must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover living and educational expenses in Bulgaria. The exact amount may vary based on several factors, including tuition costs, living area, and personal needs.

Main Financial Requirements

• Living Expenses: The minimum amount that an international student must confirm is approximately €400-500 per month for one person. This amount covers basic living expenses, food, transportation, and other daily needs. Therefore, for a one-year period (12 months), a student should have between €4,800 and €6,000 in their account.


• Tuition Fees: In addition to living expenses, students must provide proof that they have sufficient funds to pay tuition fees. The amount required for tuition can vary depending on the institution and the chosen program, but it typically ranges from €2,000 to €8,000 per year.


• Health Insurance: Students are required to have health insurance with coverage of at least €30,000, valid in Bulgaria. This policy must also be paid for or its cost included in the confirmed funds.

Thus, the minimum amount of funds that a student must confirm for obtaining a visa generally ranges from €7,000 to €14,000 per year, including living, tuition, and medical expenses.

Ways to Prove Financial Stability

Proving sufficient funds in a bank account is a key element of the student visa application. There are several acceptable methods to demonstrate financial stability:

1. Bank Statement

The applicant can provide a bank statement from their personal account that shows the required amount of funds. It is important that the statement is current and reflects the actual account balance at the time of application.

• Document Requirements: The statement must be issued by the bank no more than one month before the application is submitted and must include information on the current balance. The document should be signed and stamped by the bank.


• Legal Requirements: The bank statement can be in the name of the applicant or a sponsor (parent or relative) if a sponsorship letter is provided.

2. Sponsorship Letter

If the student does not have sufficient funds in their personal account, they may provide a sponsorship letter from a parent, relative, or other trusted individual who agrees to cover all expenses during the student's studies.

• Document Requirements: The sponsorship letter must be in writing and notarized. The letter should include the sponsor's personal details, their financial status, and their commitment to financially support the student.


• Proof of Sponsor's Financial Stability: In addition to the letter, the sponsor must provide a bank statement confirming the availability of sufficient funds.

3. Scholarships or Grants

Applicants who have received a scholarship or grant from a Bulgarian educational institution, the Bulgarian government, or an international organization may provide the relevant documents to prove financial stability.

• Document Requirements: The student must provide an official letter or contract regarding the scholarship/grant, indicating the amount that covers tuition and/or living expenses.

Additional Required Documents

Besides proving financial stability, students must provide the following documents to obtain a student visa:

• Passport: The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the visa's expiration date.


• Admission Letter: An official letter from the educational institution confirming the student's admission to the study program.


• Health Insurance: An insurance policy covering medical expenses of at least €30,000.


• Proof of Accommodation: A rental agreement or proof of residence in a dormitory.

Important Aspects and Legal Risks

1. Insufficient Funds: If the applicant cannot confirm sufficient funds in their bank account, their visa application may be rejected. This is one of the main requirements that must be met to obtain a visa.


2. Document Validity: All financial documents (bank statement, sponsorship letter) must be current and issued no earlier than one month before the application submission. Expired or unverified documents may cause delays in processing the application.


3. Prohibition of Using Fake Documents: The use of fake or forged documents is strictly prohibited and may lead to visa denial, deportation, and a ban on entry into Bulgaria.

To obtain a student visa in Bulgaria, international students must confirm the availability of sufficient funds to cover all expenses during their stay in the country. The minimum amount that must be confirmed is €400-500 per month for living expenses, plus tuition and health insurance costs. Financial documents must be current and meet established legal requirements. Incorrect or incomplete data submission may lead to a visa denial.

International students coming to Bulgaria for higher education on a student visa often seek information about the possibility of legal employment during their stay. Bulgarian legislation allows foreign students to work, but with certain restrictions and conditions. This article will provide a detailed overview of the legal aspects concerning work in Bulgaria for international students holding long-term student visas, including their rights, obligations, and procedures for obtaining work permits.

Legal Framework

The right of international students to engage in employment in Bulgaria is regulated by several legal acts, primarily:

• Law on the Residence of Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria (Law No. 78/1998).


• Labor Code of Bulgaria (Law No. 266/1992).


• Employment Promotion Act (Law No. 1/2002).

These laws define the conditions under which foreign students can work and the requirements for obtaining work permits.

Right to Work on a Student Visa

Holders of long-term student visas (Category D) who are enrolled in accredited educational institutions in Bulgaria have the right to work but with specific time and employment type restrictions.

Main Provisions:

1. Part-time Employment: Full-time students may work no more than 20 hours per week during the academic year. This limitation is set to ensure that students focus on their studies rather than on work. During vacation periods (summer or winter), students may work full-time.


2. Full-time Work During Holidays: During official holidays, students are allowed to work full-time, meaning up to 40 hours per week.


3. No Work Permit Required: International students with a long-term student visa do not need a special work permit if they work part-time during the academic year. However, if a student intends to work more than 20 hours per week or on a permanent basis, they must obtain a work permit.

Procedure for Obtaining a Work Permit

If a student wishes to work more than 20 hours per week or wants to be employed full-time, they will need to obtain a work permit in Bulgaria. This permit is regulated by the Employment Promotion Act.

Steps to Obtain a Work Permit:

1. Employer Application: The work permit must be initiated by the employer who has entered into an employment contract with the international student. The employer must submit a request to the Bulgarian Employment Agency for the issuance of a work permit.


2. Required Documents:
   
   
   
   • Employment contract or job offer.
   
   
   • Copy of the student visa (Category D) and temporary residence permit.
   
   
   • Proof of registration in an accredited educational institution in Bulgaria.
   
   
   • Other documents confirming the student's qualifications for the job (if applicable).
   
   
   
   


3. Processing Time: The work permit application process can take up to 15 working days. Once the permit is obtained, the student can officially work full-time or over 20 hours per week.


4. Validity of the Permit: The work permit is issued for the duration of the student visa and can be renewed along with the visa and temporary residence permit.

Restrictions and Exceptions

Employment Restrictions

1. Time Limitations: The primary restriction for students on a student visa is that they can work no more than 20 hours per week during the academic year. This requirement is aimed at ensuring that students focus on their studies.


2. Type of Work: It is important to note that employment must align with the student's academic and professional skills. For example, students may work in services, retail, tourism, or the IT industry. Employment in fields requiring high qualifications or special permits (e.g., medical or legal professions) may require additional licenses.

Exceptions

Students participating in internships or practical training organized by their educational institution as part of their study program can work without time limitations if the internship is a mandatory component of their education. Such internships do not require a work permit, as they are governed by the curriculum.

Rights and Responsibilities of Students

Students' Rights to Work

1. Legal Employment: International students have the right to legal employment in Bulgaria provided they meet all time and work nature requirements.


2. Labor Rights: International students working under an employment contract possess all rights provided by Bulgarian labor legislation, including the right to minimum wage, paid vacation, and social insurance.

Students' Responsibilities

1. Adherence to Time Restrictions: Students must comply with the legally established limits on working hours during the academic year. Violating these rules may lead to the annulment of the student visa and deportation.


2. Renewal of Temporary Residence Permit: Students are required to timely renew their visas and temporary residence permits if their study duration exceeds the original visa validity. Renewal will also necessitate the renewal of the work permit (if obtained).

Legal Consequences of Violating Labor Laws

1. Violation of Visa Regulations: If a student breaches the legislative limitations on working hours (for example, working more than 20 hours per week without a permit), this may be considered a violation of visa regulations. Such violations can lead to the annulment of the student visa and deportation from Bulgaria.


2. Fines and Sanctions for Employers: Employers hiring international students in violation of the law (e.g., without a work permit or under conditions contrary to legislation) may face substantial fines and administrative sanctions.

International students studying in Bulgaria on long-term student visas (Category D) have the right to work during their stay in the country, but with certain restrictions. The main rule is that students can work no more than 20 hours per week during the academic year, and full-time during holidays. To work over 20 hours per week or on a permanent basis, a work permit is required, which must be initiated by the employer. Violating these rules can lead to serious legal consequences, including visa cancellation and deportation. Compliance with all legal regulations and obtaining the necessary permits will ensure that international students can work legally and safely in Bulgaria.

International students who have completed their studies in Bulgaria often seek to extend their stay in the country. Bulgarian immigration law provides several options for students wishing to remain after completing their academic programs, whether for job searching, employment, or starting a business. This article explores the legal aspects related to the rights of international students to stay in Bulgaria after graduation, including conditions, legal procedures, and possible options for extending their stay.

Legal Framework

The main legal acts governing the right of foreign nationals to stay in Bulgaria include:

• Law on the Residence of Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria (Law No. 78/1998).


• Law on Employment Promotion (Law No. 1/2002).


• Government Decree No. 14/2009 — regulates visa regimes for third-country nationals.

These laws regulate the rights of international students to extend their stay in Bulgaria after graduation, as well as the conditions for employment or starting a business.

Options for Staying in Bulgaria After Graduation

International students who have completed their studies on a long-term student visa (Category D) have several legal pathways to continue their lawful stay in Bulgaria.

1. Residence Extension for Job Search

One of the most popular options for international students is to extend their stay for job searching. Bulgarian legislation allows foreign graduates to obtain additional time to find employment after completing their studies.

Conditions for Extension:

• Job Search Permit: Graduates from foreign universities can apply for a residence permit to search for work or start a business. This permit is issued for up to 12 months after graduation.


• Required Documents:
  
  
  
  • Original diploma or certificate of completion.
  
  
  • Proof of financial stability during the job search period (similar to student visa requirements).
  
  
  • Health insurance for the duration of the permit.
  
  
  • Application for temporary residence extension for job searching.
  
  
  
  

Graduate Rights: Graduates who obtain this permit can legally remain in Bulgaria for 12 months to search for employment or start a business. It is important to note that this permit does not allow employment until official job placement.

2. Obtaining a Work Permit

After successfully finding a job, foreign graduates can apply for a work permit. The procedure for obtaining a permit is regulated by the Law on Employment Promotion.

Work Permit Procedure:

• Employer Application: The employer must submit an application to the Bulgarian Employment Agency for a work permit for the foreign employee.


• Required Documents:
  
  
  
  • Employment contract or job offer.
  
  
  • Diploma or other documents confirming graduation.
  
  
  • Proof of residence and insurance.
  
  
  
  

Permit Validity: The work permit is issued for the duration of the employment contract, but not exceeding one year, with the possibility of renewal.

3. Starting a Business

Bulgarian legislation also allows foreign graduates to open their own business in the country. To do this, they must obtain a permit for entrepreneurial activity.

Conditions for Starting a Business:

• Minimum Investment: In some cases, foreign entrepreneurs must prove that their business will contribute to the development of the Bulgarian economy. For instance, they may need to provide evidence of creating at least 10 jobs for Bulgarian or EU citizens.


• Application and Registration: The graduate must register a company in Bulgaria and apply for a temporary residence permit based on entrepreneurial activity.

4. Residence Extension for Further Studies or Research

If an international student plans to continue their education at a higher level (e.g., enrolling in a master's or doctoral program), they can extend their temporary residence permit based on further education.

Conditions for Extension:

• Enrollment in an Educational Institution: The student must provide documents confirming enrollment in a new study program.


• Continuing Health Insurance: Health insurance must cover the entire period of residence extension.

Specifics and Limitations

1. Application Deadlines

Applications for extending temporary residence permits or obtaining new permits (for work, entrepreneurial activities) must be submitted no later than 30 days before the current permit expires. Failure to meet this deadline may result in denial of extension and the need to leave the country.

2. Financial Requirements

To extend a temporary residence permit, it is necessary to prove the availability of sufficient financial means to support living during the extension period. The minimum amount is approximately €400-500 per month.

3. Work Activity Restrictions

Foreign graduates in Bulgaria on a job search permit are not allowed to work until they receive an official work permit. Any employment without the proper permit may lead to deportation and visa cancellation.

What to Do in Case of Denial?

If a request for extending a residence permit or issuing a work permit is denied, the applicant has the right to appeal to the Administrative Court of Bulgaria.

Appeal Procedure:

• Appeal Deadline: The appeal must be filed within 14 days from the date of receiving the denial.


• Grounds for Appeal: The applicant must provide evidence that the denial was unjustified (e.g., if documents were submitted in full, but a mistake was made by immigration authorities).

International students who have completed their studies in Bulgaria have several legal options for continuing their stay in the country, including job searching, employment, or starting a business. It is crucial to submit applications for extending temporary residence permits or obtaining work permits in a timely manner. Violating visa regulations or working without permits can lead to serious legal consequences, including deportation and entry bans. Adhering to all procedures and requirements of Bulgarian legislation will provide international graduates with the opportunity for legal residency and professional realization in Bulgaria.