Bulgaria Citizenship by Descent: Complete Guide 2025
Claim Bulgaria citizenship through your Bulgaria ancestors going back up to 2 generations. Get EU citizenship with access to 27 European countries.
What is Bulgaria Citizenship by Descent?
Bulgaria citizenship by descent allows individuals with Bulgaria heritage to claim citizenship through their parents or grandparents. This pathway recognizes the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood), allowing those with Bulgaria ancestry to reclaim their heritage and gain EU citizenship.
Key Benefits of Bulgaria Citizenship
- EU Citizenship: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
- Strong Passport: Visa-free travel to 173 destinations
- No Residency Requirement: Can obtain without living in Bulgaria
- 2-Generation Eligibility: Up to 2 generations back
- Dual Citizenship: Keep your original nationality
Bulgaria Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown
Detailed Cost Breakdown:
Government Application Fee
RequiredOfficial Bulgaria nationality application fee
Standard fee for citizenship by descent applications
Document Collection
RequiredBirth, marriage, and death certificates from various registries
Bulgaria civil registry documents and international certificates
Document Translations
RequiredCertified translations of non-Bulgarian documents
All foreign documents must be translated by certified translators
Apostille Authentication
RequiredApostille stamps for international document authentication
Required for all foreign documents
Bulgarian Language Test
RequiredB1 level proficiency test
B1 level required for citizenship
Legal Consultation
OptionalImmigration lawyer assistance with application
Recommended for complex cases
Important Cost Considerations:
- Bulgaria allows up to 2 generations for citizenship by descent
- Processing times typically 18-24 months
- Must demonstrate B1 level Bulgarian proficiency
- Dual citizenship is allowed
- All foreign documents need apostille and certified translation
- Success rate approximately 82% for complete applications
💡 Money-Saving Tips:
- Order documents yourself instead of using agencies (save $200-500)
- Do translations through certified freelancers vs law firms (save $300-800)
- Apply directly to consulates rather than through services (save $1000+)
- Research your family tree yourself before hiring genealogists
Bulgaria Citizenship by Descent Requirements
You Qualify If:
- You have a Bulgaria parent or grandparent
- Your Bulgaria ancestor retained their citizenship
- You can prove the family lineage with official documents
- You can demonstrate B1 level Bulgarian proficiency
- You have no serious criminal convictions
You Don't Qualify If:
- Your Bulgaria ancestor formally renounced their citizenship
- You cannot obtain the required official documentation
- Your Bulgaria ancestor is more than 2 generations back
- You have serious criminal convictions
Bulgaria Citizenship by Descent Process: Step-by-Step
Verify Bulgaria Ancestry
Confirm you have Bulgaria parent or grandparent who retained citizenship
💡 Tip: Bulgaria allows up to 2 generations for citizenship by descent
Collect Required Documents
Gather all birth, marriage, and death certificates proving Bulgaria lineage
💡 Tip: Documents must be apostilled and translated
Bulgarian Language Test
Take B1 Bulgarian language test
💡 Tip: B1 level required
Submit Citizenship Application
Apply at Bulgaria consulate or in Sofia
💡 Tip: Can apply at consulate abroad or directly in country
Application Review and Processing
Bulgaria authorities review application and verify documents
💡 Tip: Processing times vary based on complexity and current demand
Receive Citizenship Certificate
Receive official Bulgaria nationality certificate
💡 Tip: Certificate proves citizenship and allows passport application
Apply for Bulgaria Passport
Use citizenship certificate to obtain passport
💡 Tip: Provides full EU travel and residence rights
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back can I trace Bulgaria ancestry for citizenship?
Bulgaria allows citizenship by descent for up to 2 generations: parents and grandparents.
Do I need to speak Bulgarian to get Bulgaria citizenship by descent?
Yes, you need to demonstrate B1 level Bulgarian proficiency. This requirement shows your connection to the Bulgaria community.
How much does Bulgaria citizenship by descent cost?
Total costs typically range from €500-1,500, including application fees, document costs, translations, and apostilles.
How long does the Bulgaria citizenship process take?
The process typically takes 18-24 months from application submission to citizenship approval. Processing times vary based on case complexity and current demand.
Can I keep my original citizenship when becoming Bulgarian?
Yes, Bulgaria allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your original nationality when obtaining Bulgaria citizenship.