Bulgaria Launches this year's Startup Visa certificate procedure for High-Tech and Innovative Projects

The Bulgarian Ministry of Innovation and Growth has announced the launch of the application process for VISA-1.001 – Certificate for a High-Tech and/or Innovative Project, commonly referred to as the Startup Visa.

📅 Applications open on 2 January 2026 and are submitted entirely online through the Information System for Management and Monitoring of EU Funds in Bulgaria (ISUN 2020).

What is the Startup Visa?

The Startup Visa is an official certificate that allows foreign citizens from third countries (outside the European Union) to establish and develop innovative and high-tech businesses in Bulgaria, with a strong focus on research and development activities.

As Bulgaria is an EU Member State, the initiative provides international founders with an opportunity to build and grow their startups within the European market.

Important clarification

The Ministry of Innovation and Growth emphasizes that:

• The Startup Visa is not a residence visa

• It is one of the documents that may serve as a legal basis for applying for a residence permit in Bulgaria

• It applies specifically to innovative and/or high-tech business projects

How to apply

• Applications are submitted fully electronically

• The process follows approved conditions, criteria and procedures

• Submission is done via ISUN 2020: https://eumis2020.government.bg/en/s/Procedure/Info/2c891513-0493-4658-823a-56fe215e0e0e

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