Bulgaria has become one of the most attractive real estate destinations in Eastern Europe. With its combination of affordable prices, EU membership, and beautiful nature, the country attracts more and more foreign buyers every year. From the sandy beaches of Varna to the mountain resorts of Bansko, Bulgaria offers a wide variety of properties for every lifestyle and budget.
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Bulgaria?
Yes – and it’s easier than you might think. Citizens of the EU can buy property in Bulgaria without restrictions, including land. Non-EU citizens can freely purchase apartments or properties without land (for example, in a residential building), but to buy a house with land, they usually need to set up a Bulgarian company.
This process is straightforward, and many real estate agencies help with the setup and legal paperwork.
Why Bulgaria Is So Attractive for Buyers
There are several reasons why investors and individuals choose Bulgaria:
Affordable prices: Real estate costs are still among the lowest in the EU. Apartments near the Black Sea coast can start from €1,000–€1,200 per square meter.
Low taxes: Bulgaria has a flat 10% income tax, one of the lowest in Europe.
EU legal system: As a member of the European Union, Bulgaria offers legal stability and transparent property ownership laws.
Pleasant climate: Long summers, mild winters, and plenty of sunshine throughout the year.
Growing tourism: Every year, millions of tourists visit Bulgaria’s seaside and mountain resorts, creating strong rental demand.
The Buying Process Step-by-Step
Buying property in Bulgaria typically includes several simple steps:
Select the property. Most foreigners begin by working with a licensed real estate agency.
Sign a preliminary contract. It outlines the terms of sale and reserves the property.
Legal checks. A lawyer verifies ownership, debts, and building permits.
Notary deed. The official purchase contract is signed before a Bulgarian notary, who registers the transaction.
Registration and taxes. After signing, the property is entered into the national registry. The buyer pays notary fees and a small local tax (usually 2–3% of the property price).
This process is usually completed within a few weeks, especially if the buyer provides all required documents in advance.
Costs to Consider
Besides the property price, foreign buyers should plan for additional expenses such as:
Notary and registration fees (about 1.5–2.5%)
Legal and translation costs
Real estate agency commission (typically 2–3%)
Annual property tax (0.15–0.3% of the property value)
Even with these costs, Bulgaria remains one of the most affordable places in Europe to own property.
Popular Locations for Foreign Buyers
While Sofia attracts business investors, coastal cities like Varna, Burgas, and resort areas such as Sunny Beach, Balchik, and St. Constantine and Helena remain favorites among foreigners. Varna, in particular, combines seaside living, modern infrastructure, and excellent investment potential — making it one of the best cities for both living and renting out property.
Buying property in Bulgaria as a foreigner is a smart and realistic opportunity in 2025. The country combines low entry prices with steady market growth and an easy legal framework. Whether you dream of a seaside apartment, a mountain chalet, or a quiet home in a Bulgarian village — the real estate market here offers something for everyone.
For anyone looking for a reliable guide through the process, Vip Consult Varna provides professional support, from property selection to final registration – helping you make a safe and confident investment in Bulgaria’s future.