Temporary protection in Bulgaria for Ukrainians (2026)
Ukrainians who fled the war live in Bulgaria under EU temporary protection — no type D visa or permit needed, but the status is temporary.
In short: protection in Bulgaria runs until 4 March 2027; it gives the right to live, work without a permit, access healthcare and send children to school. The government support programme runs to March 2027. To stay longer, switch to a regular permit.
The EU has decided to extend temporary protection to 4 March 2028 with new conditions for men of military age; Bulgaria's implementation will follow. Options to stay: work permit or Blue Card, family, digital nomad, or Bulgarian origin — many Bessarabian Bulgarians from the Odesa region qualify for permanent residence and citizenship. Protection years do not automatically count towards permanent residence.
FAQ
Until when is temporary protection valid in Bulgaria?
Until 4 March 2027; the EU has decided on an extension to 4 March 2028, to be implemented nationally.
📚 Sources: 3
For information only; not legal advice.
