Temporary protection in Bulgaria for Ukrainians: extended until March 4, 2027 (what has changed and whether it needs to be extended)
Has temporary protection in Bulgaria been extended for Ukrainians?
Yes. The Bulgarian government has officially extended temporary protection until March 4, 2027.
This means:
- the status has NOT been canceled
- there is no need to reapply
- only card re-registration is required
Important: the status is automatically valid for all registered Ukrainians if the person continues to reside in Bulgaria.
Has Bulgaria closed temporary protection?
No. In 2026-2027, the program will continue to operate under the EU directive on temporary protection.
Legal rights of Ukrainians with temporary protection status in Bulgaria
After registration, Ukrainians receive a registration card and acquire the following rights:
1. Residence
— legal stay in Bulgaria for the entire duration of protection
— the ability to freely enter and leave the country
— the right to family reunification
2. Employment
— official work without obtaining a separate permit
— the ability to register as self-employed or start a business
3. Education
— children under 18 can attend public schools free of charge
— access to kindergartens if places are available
4. Social support
— access to temporary accommodation programs
— social assistance in cases established by law
5. Medical assistance
— free emergency medical care
— state health insurance for a limited period after registration
— Full medical care for children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities
Temporary protection status is not a residence permit, but it gives virtually the same basic rights to live and work in the country for the period of its validity.
Where to apply for temporary protection in Bulgaria in 2026?
Only at the territorial divisions of the SAR under the Ministry of Justice of Bulgaria.
💡 For new applicants
Ukrainians arriving in Bulgaria for the first time can apply for temporary protection status at:
1. SAR under the Council of Ministers of Bulgaria
2. Regional offices of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Bulgaria
3. Registration and reception centers:
- Sofia (Ovcha Kupel Square, 21a Montevideo Street)
- Banya (17 Mineralni Bani Street, Nova Zagora district)
- Harmanli (Druzhba residential complex, 23 Druzhba Street)
IMPORTANT! Registration can only be done in person — it is not possible to submit documents through a representative.
💡 Not sure how to apply for temporary protection in Bulgaria?
Visit Ukraine lawyers can help you with:
- Registration and re-registration of status;
- Consultations on legalization in Bulgaria;
- Arranging medical insurance.
Get legal help right now!
One of our clients contacted us with a request: he, his wife, and their three-month-old child are planning to move to Varna from Georgia, and he wants to quickly apply for temporary protection in Bulgaria. In this article, we explain how the application process works, what documents you need to prepare, how to get medical insurance, and why it is better to start preparing before you arrive.
What documents are needed to extend or apply for temporary protection?
For re-registration (status extension):
✔ Completed application form (submitted to the relevant authority).
✔ Identity document (passport, ID card, etc.).
✔ Previously issued registration card.
For new registration:
✔ Provide personal data.
✔ Have your photo taken.
✔ Obtain a registration card.
Bulgaria for refugees from Ukraine: living conditions 2026
After receiving temporary protection, Ukrainians in Bulgaria usually do not live in accommodation centers permanently. The state provides housing only for a short period after arrival, after which most people rent apartments and work.
What is important to know before moving:
— accommodation in the centers is temporary, then you need to find housing on your own
— you can work officially immediately after registration
— Ukrainians most often choose Varna, Burgas, and Sofia
— The cost of living is lower than in Western European countries
— Temporary protection status effectively replaces a residence permit
Therefore, Bulgaria is suitable for those who plan to live and work, not just receive social assistance.
What will happen to Ukrainians in Bulgaria after March 4, 2027?
After the temporary protection expires, Ukrainians will be able to choose one of the following options for legalization:
1. Switch to a residence permit in Bulgaria (work, business, study, family reunification)
2. Obtain long-term residence while complying with the conditions of residence
3. Move to another EU country and apply for status there
4. Return to Ukraine
At the moment, there is no official decision on extending the program after 2027. Therefore, most Ukrainians are already preparing to switch to other grounds for residence so as not to lose their legal status in the EU.
⚖️ Need help transitioning from temporary protection status to a residence permit?
Visit Ukraine lawyers:
— analyze your situation and select the best way to legalize your status
— assist with obtaining a residence permit in Bulgaria
— help you start a business or find official employment
— advise on moving to other EU countries
Get a personal consultation to prepare for the changes in advance and maintain your legal status in the EU.
What should you do if your passport has expired?
Contact the Embassy of Ukraine in Bulgaria.
Address: Sofia, Ovcha Kupel residential area, 29 Boryana Street.
If your child does not have a foreign passport, they can be included in one of their parents' passports.
Required documents:
- Child's birth certificate.
- Photo (3.4 x 4.5 cm).
- Passport of one of the parents.
