Bulgaria is the EU’s most affordable member state and, arguably, its most underappreciated. Sofia is a compact, rapidly modernising capital with a surprisingly good restaurant scene, excellent coffee culture, low crime and mountains visible from the city centre (Mount Vitosha is 20 minutes by tram). The Black Sea coast from Burgas to Varna is a genuine summer destination with warm water and some of Europe’s most affordable beach property. Bulgaria’s Rhodope Mountains, Pirin National Park and the Rila Monastery make the country’s landscape exceptional. For UK nationals seeking EU membership, low costs and a genuine sense of discovery, Bulgaria is worth serious consideration.
Why Londoners Move to Bulgaria
- Lowest cost of living in the EU — Bulgaria is consistently the EU’s cheapest member state. Sofia rental costs are typically 75–85% lower than London. Food, dining, utilities and everyday services are dramatically cheaper
- EU membership — Bulgaria joined the EU in 2007 and is working towards eurozone and Schengen accession. EU residency rights apply for qualifying residents
- Black Sea coast — Varna and Burgas are attractive cities with beaches, warm summers and property prices that are among Europe’s lowest. Popular for retirement and remote working
- Natural landscape — Rila Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Pirin National Park, the Rhodope Mountains, Plovdiv’s old town (also UNESCO World Heritage). Bulgaria packs significant heritage and natural beauty into a compact geography
- Sofia’s emerging scene — Sofia has an increasingly confident food, arts and nightlife scene. The city is modernising rapidly, with improving infrastructure and a growing international community
- Low flat tax — Bulgaria has a flat income tax rate of 10% — the lowest in the EU. This is a significant advantage for those with Bulgarian income.
Post-Brexit: Visa and Residency for UK Nationals
Bulgaria is an EU member state. UK nationals require a Bulgarian residence permit from the Migration Directorate (Дирекция “Миграция”) for stays over 90 days.
Temporary residence permit for employment — requires a confirmed employment contract with a Bulgarian employer. Work authorisation and residence permit are typically obtained simultaneously.
Temporary residence for self-employment / business — for those establishing a Bulgarian company (EOOD — equivalent to a limited company) or operating as a freelancer. Bulgaria’s low flat tax makes it attractive for business structuring.
Residence for financially independent persons — for those with regular income from abroad sufficient to support themselves. Bulgaria does not publish a specific minimum threshold; €1,000/month is a practical benchmark. Requires proof of income and health insurance.
Apply at the Bulgarian Embassy in London or at the Migration Directorate after arrival. Processing: 1–3 months.
After arrival:
- Obtain your Personal Identification Number (EGN — Единен Граждански Номер) — needed for banking, tax and official interactions
- Register at the local Bulgarian Administration of Internal Affairs (MoI) for your address certificate
- Register with the National Revenue Agency (НАП) for tax purposes
Bulgaria’s Cities and Regions
Sofia — the capital. 1.2 million people. Finance, government, tech, arts. Vitosha neighbourhood is popular with expats; Lozenets and Ivan Vazov are more established residential districts. Mountain access from the city is genuinely extraordinary.
Plovdiv — Bulgaria’s second city and European Capital of Culture 2019. Beautiful old town (three hills, Roman theatre, National Revival architecture), growing arts scene. More relaxed than Sofia, excellent quality of life.
Varna — Black Sea coast. Port city, university, beach tourism. Pleasant climate, good amenities. Popular with retirees and remote workers.
Burgas — southern Black Sea. Gateway to the Burgas wetlands (Ramsar site). Quieter and more affordable than Varna. Good transport connections.
Bansko — ski resort in the Pirin Mountains. Small town with an established expat community, excellent skiing, increasingly popular with digital nomads and retirees. Very low cost of living.
Cost of Moving from London to Bulgaria
| Service type | Estimated cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Part-load (shared) | £500 – £1,100 | Studios, 1-bed flats, personal effects |
| Full-load (dedicated van) | £1,200 – £2,700 | 2-bed+ homes, full households |
| Professional packing add-on | £200 – £500 | Full household packing by our team |
Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna and all Bulgarian cities covered. Get a free fixed-price quote for your removals to Bulgaria.
Estimated transit time — London to Sofia: 4–7 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions: Moving from London to Bulgaria
What permit do I need to move from London to Bulgaria?
UK nationals need a Bulgarian residence permit for stays over 90 days. Routes include employment permits (requires Bulgarian employer), business permits (for those establishing a Bulgarian company) and financially independent person residence. Apply at the Bulgarian Embassy in London or the Migration Directorate after arrival.
What is Bulgaria’s flat tax rate?
Bulgaria has a flat income tax rate of 10% — the lowest in the EU. Corporate tax is also 10%. This is a significant advantage for business owners, freelancers and investors considering Bulgaria.
Does Bulgaria use the euro?
Not yet. Bulgaria uses the Bulgarian Lev (BGN), which is pegged to the euro at a fixed rate (1 EUR = 1.95583 BGN). Euro adoption is planned. The currency peg means there is minimal exchange rate risk between the lev and euro.
How long does a removal from London to Bulgaria take?
Transit from London to Sofia typically takes 4–7 working days.
Does Easy Move handle EU customs documentation for Bulgaria?
Yes. Bulgaria is an EU member state and Transfer of Residence relief applies to all household goods shipped from the UK.
Ready to move? Our team handles the full process: packing, customs and delivery.