Moving to Bulgaria

"Bulgaria is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. It is important to research the local customs and laws before moving to Bulgaria. Expats should also be aware of the language barrier, as Bulgarian is the official language. It is also important to research the cost of living in Bulgaria, as it can vary depending on the city and region. Additionally, expats should be aware of the healthcare system in Bulgaria and make sure they have adequate health insurance. Finally, expats should be aware of the visa requirements for entering and staying in Bulgaria," explained one expat living in Bulgaria.

"I would find out about a area of the country you like and fly out, drive around to if possible to find a place you like then find a estate agent or a English person to find you some houses to view . I moved out with Oggi who has a removal company, you pack your goods and he arranges the pick up, you have to load it on the lorry his driver will help, had it delivered from door to door in 6 days, great service and cheap, if you would like his email contact me," said one expat in Pleven.

"Wanted a house in town with land at a good price, but hard to come by. Searched many many estate agents, found 2 luckily in the same area, brought one of these, as don't drive its easy to walk into town, no problems in winter, and am on the main train line so can get anywhere in Bulgaria," said one expat in Pleven.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Bulgaria is to use online resources such as real estate websites. These websites typically list a variety of properties for rent or sale in Bulgaria, including apartments, houses, and villas. Additionally, you can search for properties on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, as many landlords and real estate agents post their listings on these sites. You can also contact local real estate agents in Bulgaria to help you find a suitable property. Finally, you can also look for rental properties in newspapers and magazines, as many landlords advertise their properties in these publications," remarked one expat who made the move to Bulgaria.

"Expat homes and apartments in Bulgaria tend to be modern and comfortable, with many featuring modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and cable television. Expats often choose to live in larger cities such as Sofia, where they can find a variety of housing options, from luxury apartments to more affordable options. Many expats also choose to live in smaller towns and villages, where they can enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle and take advantage of the beautiful scenery. No matter where they choose to live, expats in Bulgaria can expect to find a safe and welcoming environment," said one expat in Bulgaria.

"I suggest you rent an apartment before you buy. Bulgarians, for the most part, are very familiar with apartment life, However, my Bulgarian wife lived in an apartment for many years before we got married. We now live in a house with a yard, vegetable garden, dogs and cats. She will not go back to apartment living," said one expat who made the move to Bulgaria.

"House taxes are way way lower, electric is about the same, most heating that people use is by wood, same as mine that heats up the seven radiators to keep the house warm. Water is cheap, and if you have a well like me watering the garden doesn't cost you anything, but I am lucky that mine is drinkable to which a lot isn't," replied a member in Pleven.

"The cost of housing in Bulgaria is generally quite affordable compared to other European countries. The average cost of renting an apartment in Bulgaria is usually around €200-400 per month, while the average cost of buying a property is around €1,000-2,000 per square meter. Prices vary depending on the location and size of the property," commented one expat who made the move to Bulgaria.

"I bought a house (4 bed 2 floors, water well, two barns, outside kitchen, fire room, wet room, mains water, mains electric and severage) near Elhovo for £15,000 in May 2023. it was bought from Kiki sat Bulgaria house. I love Bulgaria, cheap, slow pace of live, no-one there, lovely people - the only down side is the bloody Bureaucracy, it is unbelievably proacted and long winded. overall though it is worth it," remarked one expat in Bulgaria.

"Buying a home in Bulgaria can be a great investment, as the country offers a wide range of properties at competitive prices. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Bulgaria, as well as the availability of rental properties, before making a decision. Renting a home in Bulgaria can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more cost-effective in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Bulgaria should be based on individual needs and preferences," said one expat who made the move to Bulgaria.

"When moving to Bulgaria, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack clothing that is appropriate for the season, such as a light jacket for the cooler months and a hat and sunscreen for the summer. Bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the country. It is also important to bring items that will help you feel at home, such as pictures of family and friends, books, and music. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few basic toiletries and medications, as well as a first aid kit. Finally, make sure to bring any important documents, such as your passport and visa," said one expat who made the move to Bulgaria.

"Dumpling Mix, loads of it. Marmite Oxo's. Some furniture, Husband, some clothes," explained one expat living in Pleven, Bulgaria.

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Bulgaria. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Avoid making negative comments about the country or its people. It is also important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local etiquette when it comes to dining, such as not starting to eat until the host has given the signal to do so. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to gift-giving, such as not giving an even number of flowers as this is considered bad luck," said one expat in Bulgaria.

"I wore my first Martinitsa well in June, when a kind friend told me it was time to put it away," remarked one expat who made the move to Varna.

"Bulgaria is an attractive destination for expats due to its low cost of living, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. The country offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from skiing in the winter to exploring the Black Sea coast in the summer. Bulgaria also has a vibrant nightlife and a growing expat community, making it an ideal place to settle down and make new friends. Additionally, the country has a strong economy and a stable political system, making it a safe and secure place to live. With its low taxes and relaxed visa requirements, Bulgaria is an attractive option for expats looking for a new home," wrote one expat living in Bulgaria.

"There are doctors clinics for general health issues that are easy to use as (for instance) if you need an ex-ray for a problem, it is done there within minutes and you then see the doctor again and the results and treatments are discussed. There is no need to book an appointment and the total cost of a visit such as this is approximately 40 Bulgarian Lev to include the ex-ray. Medication is then prescribed and it is very affordable compared with the UK," wrote one expat living in Bulgaria.

"Be sure you now how to call an ambulance and know a doctor with who you can communicate," commented one expat living in Ivaylovgrad.

"Bulgaria has a well-developed healthcare system, providing a wide range of medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a variety of treatments and services, including general medicine, surgery, dentistry, and specialized care. The quality of care is generally good, and the cost of medical services is relatively low compared to other European countries. In addition, Bulgaria has a number of private medical facilities that offer more advanced treatments and services at a higher cost," wrote one expat living in Bulgaria.