FAQ - Storkproperties.co.uk

Do I need a visa to travel to Bulgaria?
British citizens do not need a visa for travelling to Bulgaria when their stay is less than 30 days (within each period of six months): Citizens from the EU can visit Bulgaria for up to 90 days within each period of six months.

Foreign visitors entering the Bulgarian territory in a motor vehicle need to present a vehicle ownership document, if such ownership is not explicitly mentioned in the vehicle's registration documents.

Under Bulgarian law all foreign visitors should, within five days of arrival in Bulgaria, register with a local police station, giving in writing the address at which they will reside during their stay. If staying at a hotel or in private accommodation, the hotel management/hosts have the responsibility to register them at the local police station.

Why are so many people buying properties in Bulgaria?
As Eastern Europe opens its doors, a whole new world of beautiful countries emerges. Bulgaria offers many attractions to the expatriate or new property owner, from the magnificent mountains to the beautiful Black Sea coast and beaches.

Since the fall of the iron curtain, Bulgaria has gained a very respectful place on the European tourism scene. The economic development experienced giant leaps in recent years, particularly as the country opened its doors to foreign investment.

Already a member of NATO, Bulgaria is due to gain full EU membership by 2008 at the latest. As witnessed in other new EU members, property prices increased dramatically just prior and after their respective adhesion to the EU, as true property market value became visible and appreciated.

Today Bulgaria is a favourite destination for many holiday-makers mainly thanks to its wonderful climate, splendid (and widely unspoilt) natural beauty, rich historic heritage and strategic geographic location. Many tourists are able to see the added benefits of owning a property there, which in turn is fuelling a booming and sustainable property business.

Among its many benefits, Bulgaria has the perfect conditions for practicing winter and summer sports, spa rehabilitation, rural tourism and eco-tourism.
For more information, please refer to the section Why invest in Bulgaria

What is the passport validity for travelling to Bulgaria?
Foreign citizens entering Bulgaria must present a passport valid for at least three months beyond the holder's date of return from Bulgaria.
It is important to note that citizens entering through the Bulgarian border checkpoints are required to present their valid international passports. ID cards or driving licenses are not acceptable.

What are property prices like in Bulgaria?
The properties in Bulgaria offer excellent value for money. They also offer a good investment considering the long-term prospects for the country. An average seaside villa can be purchased for around 40,000 pounds sterling, with rural properties being offered for even less. Whatever your budget, Bulgaria may offer considerably better value for money than European destinations.

Are there any restrictions for foreigners?
According to the Bulgarian Constitution, foreign individual persons can buy buildings but not land. Therefore the most common method for foreigners buying property in Bulgaria is to set up a company which then owns the land and the buildings. Our lawyers can handle the entire process from start to completion.

How I can set up a company in Bulgaria to buy a property with land?
This is done very easily. Our lawyer will be happy to assist you with further details.

Is it possible to add a partner after the company has been registered?
A new partner can be added once the company is registered. A Single Person Limited Company can be easily turned into a Limited Company.

What's the weather like?
Typically summers are long, dry and warm whilst winters are short but can be very cold with frequent snowfalls. The Black Sea coast has milder winters, where snow is a rarity. Please refer to the section "About Bulgaria" - Weather and Climate.

Why sometimes the price written in the Deeds is not the actual one?
Along with the actual price, one should also be aware of the so-called “tax estimation price”. Its value is always lower than the actual market price of the property, because it is used for taxation purposes. A common practice is for a vendor to ask the tax estimation price to be written in the deeds as this will translate in lower governmental taxes, notary taxes and other expenses for both sides.

What are the options for rebuilding a property after buying it?
Our goal is to offer our clients a complete service – both with regards to purchasing a property and any after sale assistance. We have an expert team including builders and architects, who will be happy to assist you with any building activities.