Bulgaria Commercial Representation Office (TRO) with Residence 2026 — Company-Based EU Residence
Open a representative office for your existing company in Bulgaria and obtain EU residence. Affordable, neighboring Turkey, no property investment required.
Residency via Commercial Representation Office (TRO)
Bulgaria’s Aliens Act recognizes two practical pathways to residency for non-EU citizens: opening a Commercial Representation Office (TRO) through an existing foreign company or making a real estate investment of at least 300,000 € (600,000 BGN). The TRO route provides affordable EU residency for entrepreneurs who already operate an active company, without the need to purchase property.
Company Requirements for 2026
- Parent company: must have been active for at least 2 years
- Turnover: annual turnover of at least 100,000 BGN (~52,000 €) in each of the last two fiscal years
- The parent company must have no tax debts in its home country
- ⚠️ June 2025 reform: The number of representatives eligible for residency through a TRO has been reduced from 3 to 2
Nature and Process of the TRO
A TRO is the non-commercial extension of a foreign company in Bulgaria; it cannot engage in direct profit-making activities (only representation, market research, and promotion). Foreigners listed as TRO representatives receive a Type D long-term visa, followed by a 1-year renewable residence permit. After 5 years, an application for permanent residency can be submitted.
Why Bulgaria TRO?
- EU member — legal residence in Europe
- No property investment required (much cheaper than the real estate alternative)
- Neighbor to Turkey; 10% flat tax, low cost of living
- Uses your existing company — no new capital required
With Resida Global
Resida Global manages the entire process in Turkish, from TRO registration and representative appointment to the Type D visa and residence card; it also evaluates the eligibility of your parent company in advance.
Estimated Costs
| TRO registration (BCCI) | ~€500-1,000 |
| Type D visa | ~€100-200 |
| Residence card | ~€200-500 |
| Translation, apostille, notary | ~€300-600 |
| Consulting | Upon request |
Costs are indicative and may vary with current official fees and exchange rates.
How the Process Works
- 1
1. Eligibility check
Age, turnover, and tax status of the parent company are evaluated.
- 2
2. TRO registration
Registration of the representative office with the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI).
- 3
3. Appointment of representative
A maximum of 2 representatives are appointed.
- 4
4. Type D visa
Long-term visa from the consulate in your country.
- 5
5. Residence card
1-year renewable residence in Bulgaria; permanent residency after 5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions must the parent company meet for TRO?
The parent company must be active for at least 2 years, have an annual turnover of at least 100,000 BGN (~€52,000) in the last two fiscal years, and have no tax debts in its home country.
Can TRO conduct commercial activities?
No. TRO is a non-commercial extension of the foreign company; it cannot directly engage in profit-making business (it can handle representation, market research, promotion). A Bulgarian company must be established for commercial activities.
How many people can obtain residence?
With the June 2025 reform, the number of representatives eligible for residence through one TRO was reduced from 3 to 2.
Do I need to buy property?
No. The TRO route does not require property investment; therefore, it is much cheaper than the €300,000 real estate alternative.
When can I obtain permanent residency?
After continuous residence for 5 years by renewing the 1-year residence permit, you can apply for permanent residency.
Let’s plan your process together
Contact our team for a free, tailored preliminary assessment of your case.