Pre-Approval for Bulgarian citizenship by investment
Last Updated on August 29, 2024 by Bulgarian Citizenship Team
The amended Bulgarian Citizenship Act stipulates that a pre-approval stage will be included in the process of obtaining Bulgarian citizenship by investment. The details about the pre-approval stage are stated in the secondary legislation to the Act.
Source of Funds
Under the bond program, proving the source of your funds required only a signed declaration stating their origin. If your funds were generated through employment, you simply needed to provide details of your employer, employment duration, and position, along with the signed declaration. Now, you may also need to provide the employment contract. If your funds came from the sale of a property, you might need to submit the sale agreement. These requirements remain the same under the revamped new program.
Background check
Applicants for the Bulgaria Golden Visa are required to present a valid certificate of no criminal record multiple times throughout the process.
The first instance is during the pre-approval procedure with the Bulgarian Investment Agency. The second is when applying for a D visa at the Bulgarian embassy or consulate in their home country. The third is when applying for indefinite permanent residency. If the applicant wishes to apply for Bulgarian citizenship by investment, a no criminal record certificate will need to be provided a fourth time.
How long will the pre-approval stage take?
The Investment Agency conducts the pre-approval stage, which takes up to ten weeks to complete. The Investment Agency is not an investigative body; its administrative functions include confirming that the investment was made and issuing an investment certificate.
FAQs:
What are the key components of the pre-approval stage?
A Legal source of funds and no criminal record are the key components of the pre-approval stage.
Can I apply for the pre-approval remotely?
Yes, you are not required to be physically present during the pre-approval process. You can instruct our team to apply on your behalf.
How long does the pre-approval stage take?
The pre-approval stage takes up to 10 weeks.
Can I change my mind once the pre-approval process has started?
Yes, starting the pre-approval process does not obligate you to proceed with the investment.
What is the cost for assistance with the pre-approval process?
Our team provides assistance with the initial stage of your Bulgaria Golden Visa journey at no charge.
