Moving to Bulgaria After Brexit – Guide for UK Citizens

Hassle-Free UK to Bulgaria Removals – Affordable Door-to-Door Service

MyCheapRemovals offers an affordable, door-to-door removal service from the UK to Bulgaria with full support at every step – from an easy booking process to packing guidance and customs paperwork assistance. With quick delivery (typically 3–5 days) and flexible van options, they ensure your relocation to Bulgaria is smooth and stress-free.

• Easy Booking: Get a free instant quote online or by phone and confirm your move in minutes. Book at least 2–3 weeks in advance for optimal scheduling.
• Flexible Van Sizes: Choose from part-load options of 5m³, 10m³, or 15m³ for smaller moves, or reserve a full van (20m³ or 30m³) for larger households. Full-load bookings allow you to select exact pickup dates.
• Fast Delivery: Enjoy delivery across Bulgaria in 3–5 days from the UK. Full-load moves are faster due to direct routing.
• Packing Support: Our team provides advice and can assist with packing. Loading/unloading help is included.
• No Hidden Fees: Transparent pricing includes customs, ferry, fuel, and insurance – up to £20,000 cover during transit.
• Expert Guidance: Our experienced team handles customs documentation and offers personal support throughout your move.

Moving to Bulgaria After Brexit: A Complete Guide for UK Citizens

Brexit has changed the landscape for UK citizens looking to move to EU countries, including Bulgaria. While the process has become more complex in some ways, Bulgaria remains an attractive destination for Britons seeking a more affordable lifestyle, beautiful landscapes, and a relaxed pace of life.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about moving to Bulgaria as a UK citizen post-Brexit, from visa requirements to healthcare considerations and practical relocation advice.

Residency Options for UK Citizens in Bulgaria

Since the UK’s departure from the European Union, British citizens no longer have the automatic right to live and work in Bulgaria. However, several viable pathways to residency remain available:

Short-Term Stays (Up to 90 Days)

• Property-hunting trips
• Extended holidays
• Testing the waters before a permanent move
• Seasonal stays

Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from Bulgaria.

Long-Term Residency Options

1. Work Permit Residency

• Employment contract with a Bulgarian company
• Proof that the position couldn’t be filled by a Bulgarian or EU citizen
• Evidence of appropriate qualifications
• Proof of accommodation in Bulgaria
• Comprehensive health insurance

2. Business/Self-Employment Residency

• Registering a Bulgarian company
• Demonstrating business activity and economic benefit to Bulgaria
• Creating jobs for local citizens (in some cases)
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Appropriate accommodation
• Health insurance

3. Retirement Residency

• Proof of pension income (€700–800/month)
• Property ownership or long-term rental
• Health insurance
• Clean criminal record

4. Property Owner Residency

• Sufficient income from abroad
• Health insurance
• No intention to work in Bulgaria

5. Family Reunification

Applicable for those with close family already legally residing in Bulgaria.

The Application Process for Bulgarian Residency

Step 1: Prepare Your Documentation

• Passport, completed forms, financial proof, accommodation proof
• Health insurance, criminal record check, photos
• Official translations and apostilles

Step 2: Apply at the Bulgarian Embassy in the UK

• Schedule appointments, submit documents, pay fees
• Receive long-stay D visa

Step 3: Finalise in Bulgaria

• Register with police
• Apply for a residence permit
• Submit biometrics and pay fees
• Collect ID card

Customs Regulations and Moving Your Belongings

Duty-free imports are possible for residents bringing personal belongings. Requires inventory, proof of residence, and customs paperwork. When you book removal to Bulgaria with MyCheapRemovals, we provide you with paperwork.

Restricted Items

• Firearms, narcotics, food, and counterfeit goods

Vehicle Importation

May require VAT, registration, and road tax. Duty-free options exist for older personal vehicles.

Healthcare Considerations

• Emergency cover via GHIC/EHIC
• Residents must join NHIF (8% of income)
• Private insurance: faster, English-speaking doctors

Banking and Financial Setup

Open accounts with your ID and a local address. When it comes to moving funds and handling day-to-day expenses, you’ll likely need to convert British Pounds (GBP) to Bulgarian Leva (BGN). Keep in mind that exchange rates fluctuate, but as a general guide, on April 15, 2025, the approximate rates were:

• 1 BGN to British Pound (GBP): Around £0.44
• 1 BGN to Euro (EUR): Roughly €0.51
• 1 BGN to US Dollar (USD): Approximately $0.58

Remember that these are mid-market rates, and the actual rate you receive from currency exchange services will likely include their fees. It’s always a good idea to compare different providers (banks, online platforms, etc.) to find the most favourable exchange rate and lowest fees.

Beyond currency exchange, it’s crucial to understand the tax rules that apply to dual residents and how your pension might be affected in Bulgaria. Seeking advice from a financial advisor who specialises in cross-border taxation can save you time and potential headaches down the line.

Housing in Bulgaria

Renting

• €150–300 for 1-bed flats outside Sofia
• 1-year contracts, deposits required

Buying

• Houses from €15,000
• Flats from €50,000
• Some land purchases require a Bulgarian company

Life in Bulgaria

• Basic Bulgarian helps with integration
• Driving requires license exchange
• Utilities are affordable and accessible
• Join expat groups to build a community

Using MyCheapRemovals for Your Move to Bulgaria

Planning your move from the UK to Bulgaria? MyCheapRemovals offers professional UK-to-Bulgaria removal services, assisting you with tracking your belongings, navigating customs procedures, and providing flexible scheduling, all with full insurance for your peace of mind.

While we focus on the transportation of your goods, we understand that the packing process is a crucial part of any move. To help you save on costs, the responsibility of packing your belongings rests with you. However, to assist you in this process, we’ve compiled valuable information in our blog posts:

• Moving Boxes – cheapest options on the UK market at selected retailers:  Discover cost-effective options for moving boxes available from various UK retailers.
• Moving Boxes – cheapest options on the UK market at selected retailers – part 2: Explore even more budget-friendly choices and comparisons of removal boxes based on their price per cubic meter.

By utilising the information in these guides, you can make informed decisions about your packing materials and ensure your belongings are safely prepared for their journey to Bulgaria. Our team then takes over to handle the logistics of a smooth and secure removal.

Conclusion

Moving to Bulgaria is still accessible post-Brexit with proper planning. Use MyCheapRemovals for a smooth and affordable relocation experience. Call 01942 938 222, 01942 409 822 or 01942 409 821 or get an instant quote online.