Introduction
In a notable development, Bulgaria has significantly increased the number of citizenships granted to foreign nationals in 2024. According to recent data, over 16,000 individuals received Bulgarian passports last year, marking a 33.3% rise compared to 2023, when 12,000 foreign nationals were naturalized.
Key Takeaways
- Bulgaria granted citizenship to more than 16,000 individuals in 2024, a 33.3% increase from the previous year.
- Ukrainian and Turkish nationals were the primary recipients, with over 2,400 and 2,200 individuals respectively obtaining Bulgarian citizenship.
- Moldovan and North Macedonian nationals also saw significant numbers, with over 1,800 and nearly 1,700 individuals respectively becoming Bulgarian citizens.
- Despite the increase in naturalizations, Bulgaria revoked the citizenship of 38 individuals in 2024 due to various violations.
- Nearly 6,000 citizenship applications were denied, while almost 4,500 individuals restored their Bulgarian citizenship in the same year.
Demographic Insights
The surge in Bulgarian citizenship grants was notably prominent among certain nationalities. Ukrainian nationals topped the list, with more than 2,400 individuals obtaining Bulgarian passports. Turkish nationals followed closely, with 2,200 individuals naturalized. Moldovan and North Macedonian citizens were also significant beneficiaries, with over 1,800 and nearly 1,700 individuals respectively gaining citizenship. Other nationalities that featured prominently included Albanians, Serbs, Russians, Israelis, and Syrians.
Revocations and Denials
While Bulgaria demonstrated an openness to granting citizenship, it also maintained stringent measures to uphold the integrity of its naturalization process. In 2024, the country revoked the citizenship of 38 individuals due to reasons such as bans on residence in the Schengen Area, submission of fake documents, and other violations. Additionally, nearly 6,000 citizenship applications were denied, underscoring the rigorous standards applied by Bulgarian authorities.
Restoration of Citizenship
In a parallel development, almost 4,500 individuals restored their Bulgarian citizenship in 2024. This indicates a significant number of people seeking to reconnect with their Bulgarian heritage or reclaim their legal status within the country.
Pathways to Citizenship
The majority of individuals who obtained Bulgarian citizenship in 2024 did so based on origin or through general naturalization processes. To qualify for Bulgarian citizenship, foreign nationals must meet several criteria, including:
- Legal Residency: A minimum of five years of legal residence in Bulgaria.
- Clean Criminal Record: Applicants must have no criminal convictions.
- Financial Stability: Proof of sufficient income to support themselves.
- Language Proficiency: Passing a Bulgarian language test.
- Renunciation of Original Citizenship: Applicants are generally required to renounce their original citizenship unless they fall under specific exemptions.
These stringent requirements ensure that new citizens are well-integrated and committed to contributing positively to Bulgarian society.
Conclusion
Bulgaria’s significant increase in citizenship grants in 2024 reflects the country’s evolving demographic landscape and its appeal to individuals from various nations seeking new opportunities within the European Union. While the nation has shown a willingness to welcome new citizens, it continues to uphold strict standards to maintain the integrity of its naturalization process. This balance between openness and rigor ensures that the privileges of Bulgarian citizenship are extended to those who are prepared to meet the country’s established criteria and contribute to its societal fabric.
#Bulgaria
Source – schengen.news
