Who qualifies for Bulgaria citizenship by descent?

Eligibility runs through the Descent pathway and depends on your specific line of descent — which ancestor was a citizen, when, and whether the chain was ever broken by naturalization or other events. Run the free eligibility check for a personalized answer.

Which authority decides Bulgaria citizenship cases?

Ministry of Justice. EasyPassport is not affiliated with them; we help you organize and verify, and you submit to the authority directly.

How long does it take?

Timelines vary widely by route and backlog and are outside any service's control. Treat published averages as estimates and confirm current waits with the authority.

Do I need to upload my passport or ID?

No. EasyPassport never stores passports or government IDs — it's a checklist and organization tool, not a document vault.

Is this legal advice?

No. We use “may qualify” language because the authority makes the final determination. For an individualized opinion, consult a qualified attorney in the relevant jurisdiction.

Bulgaria citizenship by descent

Bulgaria offers facilitated naturalization to people of Bulgarian origin with an ancestor up to the 3rd degree — but a Bulgarian-language requirement takes effect in 2026. Check whether you qualify, build your lineage, and get a primary-source-backed document checklist and cost estimate.

Who may qualify

A documented Bulgarian ascendant within the 3rd degree (parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent).
Facilitated naturalization (Art. 15) waives residence and income.
A Bulgarian-language requirement takes effect 31 Jan 2026.
A clean criminal record is required.

A general overview — your eligibility depends on the specifics of your line. The free check gives a personalized answer.

Not sure where to start?

The free eligibility check takes about two minutes.

Check your eligibility

By ancestor path

Your relationship to the Bulgaria ancestor determines which rules apply.

Through your parent

A Bulgarian parent — the most direct origin claim.

Through your grandparent

Document Bulgarian origin via your grandparent.

Through your great-grandparent

Within the 3rd-degree limit, with documented origin.

What you'll need

Government fee: ≈ €150 (300 BGN); reduced for minors/students
Typical timeline: ~9–24 months
Where: Directorate 'Bulgarian Citizenship', Ministry of Justice

Key dates & laws

31 Jan 2026 (SG 61/2025)
A Bulgarian-language requirement takes effect for origin-based applicants.
Fee increase (2025)
The state fee rose from 30 to 300 BGN.

Where it's processed

Directorate 'Bulgarian Citizenship', Ministry of Justice

Tools

Bulgaria cost calculator

Guides

Required documents Where to apply Frequently asked questions Can my child get Bulgaria citizenship?

Frequently asked questions

Who qualifies for Bulgaria citizenship by descent?: Eligibility runs through the Descent pathway and depends on your specific line of descent — which ancestor was a citizen, when, and whether the chain was ever broken by naturalization or other events. Run the free eligibility check for a personalized answer.
Which authority decides Bulgaria citizenship cases?: Ministry of Justice. EasyPassport is not affiliated with them; we help you organize and verify, and you submit to the authority directly.
How long does it take?: Timelines vary widely by route and backlog and are outside any service's control. Treat published averages as estimates and confirm current waits with the authority.
Do I need to upload my passport or ID?: No. EasyPassport never stores passports or government IDs — it's a checklist and organization tool, not a document vault.
Is this legal advice?: No. We use “may qualify” language because the authority makes the final determination. For an individualized opinion, consult a qualified attorney in the relevant jurisdiction.

Other countries we support

EasyPassport is not affiliated with Ministry of Justice, any government, or any consulate. This is a document-organization tool, not legal advice — always verify with the relevant authority.