Temporary protection in Bulgaria for Ukrainians in 2025: has the status been extended and what do you need to know?

Has Bulgaria closed temporary protection for Ukrainians in 2025?

No! On the contrary, the government has decided to extend the temporary protection status for refugees from Ukraine until March 4, 2026.

Registration cards that have already been issued remain valid until April 30, 2025.

Until then, Ukrainians need to re-register their status, otherwise the card will be canceled.

After April 30, 2025, it will be possible to obtain a new card only at the territorial subdivisions of the ATS under the Ministry of Justice of Bulgaria.

That is, Bulgaria has not closed the possibility of extending temporary protection in 2025, but has only changed the procedure!

What does temporary protection in Bulgaria in 2025 entail?

Obtaining temporary protection status gives Ukrainians the following rights:

• Legal residence in Bulgaria until March 4, 2026.
  
• Official employment - you can work without additional permits.
  
• Access to education - children under the age of 18 can study in Bulgarian schools.
  
• Possibility to receive social assistance and temporary housing.
  
• Health insurance:
  

- Free emergency care for all.

- 90 days of health insurance for women (18-63 years old) and men (up to 65 years old).

- Full medical care for children, the elderly and people with disabilities.

• Possibility to return to Ukraine or move to other EU countries.
  
• Family reunification - family members receive the same status.

Where to apply for temporary protection in Bulgaria in 2025?

📍 Re-registration (until April 30, 2025)

1. Regional offices of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Bulgaria

2. Territorial subdivisions of the State Agency for Refugees (SAR) under the Ministry of Internal Affairs

📍 After April 30, 2025

Only in the territorial subdivisions of the BRA under the Ministry of Justice of Bulgaria

💡 For new applicants

Ukrainians arriving in Bulgaria for the first time can apply for temporary protection status in:

1. ATS at the Council of Ministers of Bulgaria

2. Regional offices of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Bulgaria

3. Registration and reception centers:

• Sofia (21a Ovcha Kupel pl.)
  
• с. Banja (17 Mineralni Bani Str., Nova Zagora district)
  
• м. Harmanly (Druzhba residential complex, 23 Druzhba str.)

IMPORTANT! Registration takes place only in person - it is impossible to submit documents through a representative.

What documents are required to extend or apply for temporary protection?

For re-registration (extension of status):

✔ A completed application (provided by the relevant authority).

✔ An identity document (passport, ID card, etc.).

✔ Registration card issued earlier.

For a new registration:

✔ Provide personal data.

✔ Take a photo.

✔ Receive a registration card.

Can I extend my visa-free stay in Bulgaria?

• Ukrainians can stay without a visa for up to 90 days within 180 days.
  
• If you need to extend your stay, it is possible for humanitarian reasons in accordance with the Bulgarian Foreigners Act.
  
• You can submit an application to the Migration Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Bulgaria before the expiration of the visa-free regime.

What should I do if my passport has expired?

Apply to the Embassy of Ukraine in Bulgaria.

Address: Sofia, Ovcha Kupel residential complex, 29 Boriana Str.

If the child does not have a passport, he or she can be entered in the passport of one of the parents.

Required documents:

• Child's birth certificate.
  
• Photo (3.4x4.5 cm).
  
• Passport of one of the parents.