How to apply for Bulgaria citizenship
A step-by-step guide to claiming Bulgaria citizenship by descent through Ministry of Justice. Your exact documents and route are confirmed by the free eligibility check.
- 1
Confirm Bulgarian origin
Identify a Bulgarian ascendant within the 3rd degree and gather evidence of your origin.
- 2
Obtain an origin certificate
Secure the certificate of Bulgarian origin typically issued by the State Agency for Bulgarians Abroad.
- 3
Gather civil and criminal records
Collect birth and marriage certificates linking the line and a clean criminal-record certificate.
- 4
Translate and legalize
Provide Bulgarian translations and apostille/legalize foreign documents.
- 5
File and attend the interview
Submit to the 'Bulgarian Citizenship' Directorate (Ministry of Justice) and attend the mandatory interview; the state fee is ~€150.
- 6
Track to decision
Processing generally runs ~9–24 months.
See if you qualify for Bulgaria citizenship
Check your eligibility — freeNot affiliated with Ministry of Justice or any government. A document-organization tool, not legal advice — always verify with the relevant authority.