Settling In

Registering your address: You must register your Bulgarian address with the local municipality. Bring your passport, residence permit, and a copy of your property deed or rental agreement. This is a legal requirement and is needed for many other processes.

LNCh number (личен номер на чужденец): The LNCh is your Bulgarian personal identification number as a foreigner. It is issued by the Migration Directorate as part of your residence permit and appears on your residence card. You will need it to pay property taxes, file tax returns, deal with your bank and complete most official transactions.

Driving licence exchange: You must exchange your UK driving licence for a Bulgarian one within one year of receiving your residence permit. Contact the local KAT (traffic police) office. This is a legal requirement for residents — not just a recommendation.

UK vehicle in Bulgaria: If you bring a UK-registered vehicle, there are strict rules on how long it can remain in Bulgaria. Long-term residents are generally required to register their vehicle in Bulgaria or risk penalties. Get advice early from a local lawyer or KAT office.

Residence card (pre-2021 movers): If you moved before 1 January 2021, you must hold a biometric residence card ('документ за пребиваване'). Without it, the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) may wrongly flag you as overstaying the 90-day Schengen limit each time you travel. See the Can I Move page for more detail.