Can My Child Gain Bulgarian Citizenship by Ancestry? Complete Guide for Children

For many families with Bulgarian heritage, one of the most important questions is whether children can also benefit from Bulgarian citizenship by ancestry. Parents who qualify often want to ensure their children gain the same advantages — access to the European Union, education opportunities, and the ability to live and work freely across Europe. Many foreign citizens with Bulgarian origin consider this an essential step for their families.

This guide explains how Bulgarian nationality law treats children, what documents are required, and how parents can apply on their behalf.

Why Citizenship for Children Matters

As Bulgarian citizenship automatically provides EU citizenship, securing it for children can change their future in practical ways:

• Education: EU citizens pay much lower tuition at European universities.
• Healthcare: Children gain access to public healthcare in Bulgaria and across the EU.
• Mobility: A Bulgarian passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 170 countries.
• Heritage: Citizenship helps preserve cultural identity and ties to Bulgarian roots.

For many parents, applying for Bulgarian citizenship by ancestry for their children at the same time as their own recognition ensures the whole family can enjoy these benefits together. For foreign citizens with Bulgarian origin, this process also represents an important connection to family history

How Bulgarian Citizenship Passes to Children

Bulgarian nationality law is primarily based on descent (jus sanguinis). This means citizenship is inherited through parents rather than being determined solely by birthplace.

Children of Bulgarian Citizens

• If one or both parents are Bulgarian citizens at the time of the child’s birth, the child is automatically a Bulgarian citizen.
• This applies whether the child is born in Bulgaria or abroad.

When Parents Apply After the Child’s Birth

• If a parent is recognized as a Bulgarian citizen later in life, they may submit a citizenship application for their child’s recognition as well.
  
• For minors under 18, parents usually submit the application on their behalf.

Adopted Children

Adopted children under 18 qualify for Bulgarian citizenship if the adoption is legally recognized under Bulgarian law.

Legal Framework for Bulgarian Citizenship by Ancestry

The rules for Bulgarian citizenship by ancestry are set out in the Bulgarian Citizenship Act (1999, amended). Key provisions include:

• Citizenship passes automatically if a parent is Bulgarian at birth.
• Children under 18 may apply with or through their parents.
• Adopted children enjoy the same rights as biological children when the adoption is legally valid.

Step-by-Step Application Process for Children

Step 1: Parent’s Citizenship Status

 Confirm whether the parent already holds Bulgarian citizenship or is in the process of recognition. Children’s applications typically follow the parent’s recognition.

Step 2: Gather the Child’s Documents

• Long-form birth certificate showing both parents’ names.
• Proof of the parent’s Bulgarian citizenship or application.
• Adoption decrees, if applicable.
• Certificate of migration if available, as additional documentary proof.

Step 3: File Application

• Applications may be submitted at Bulgarian embassies or consulates abroad.
• Parents or legal guardians submit on behalf of minors.
• Forms are provided by the Ministry of Justice or consular offices.

Step 4: Processing

• Applications for minors are often prioritized.
• Processing usually takes 12–18 months but may vary.

Step 5: Registration

• Once approved, the child is entered into the Bulgarian civil registry.
• The family can then apply for a Bulgarian passport and ID for the child.

Required Documents for Children

While exact requirements depend on the consulate, most cases for Bulgarian citizenship by ancestry require:

• Child’s long-form birth certificate.
• Parent’s Bulgarian citizenship proof (passport, certificate, or application file).
• Adoption or custody documents (if relevant).
• Applicant’s passport (if child has one).
• Bulgarian birth certificate in some recognition cases.
• Police clearance certificate is generally not required for minors.
• Certified Bulgarian translations and apostilles for all foreign documents.

Dual Citizenship for Children

Bulgaria allows dual citizenship. Children do not have to renounce their original nationality to gain Bulgarian citizenship. This means a child can hold both Bulgarian and U.S., Canadian, Australian, or other nationality at the same time.

Common Challenges in Acquiring Bulgarian Citizenship by Ancestry

Documentation Issues

• Parents often struggle with inconsistent spellings across generations.
• Missing birth or marriage records may delay processing.

Timing

• If parents wait until after their child turns 18, the process becomes more complex. Adult children must apply independently.

Adoption Cases

• Extra documentation may be needed to prove adoption is recognized under Bulgarian law.

Benefits for Children

Granting children Bulgarian citizenship secures lifelong opportunities:

• EU Rights: The ability to live and work in 27 countries.
• Education: Affordable access to top universities.
• Healthcare: EU coverage throughout childhood and adulthood.
• Generational Security: The right to pass citizenship to their own children in the future.

FAQs – Bulgarian Citizenship by Ancestry for Children

Example Scenarios

• Case 1: Parent already Bulgarian at birth
  Maria, a Bulgarian citizen living in Canada, gives birth to a son in Toronto. He is automatically Bulgarian, though his birth must be registered with Bulgarian authorities.
  
• Case 2: Parent recognized later
  Ivan applies for Bulgarian citizenship in 2023 based on his grandparents. His 10-year-old daughter applies alongside him. Once Ivan is recognized, she is also granted citizenship.
  
• Case 3: Adoption
  A U.S. couple adopts a Bulgarian child under 18. With proper adoption recognition, the child retains Bulgarian citizenship.

How Your Child Can Qualify for Bulgarian Citizenship by Ancestry

Bulgarian nationality law ensures that children of Bulgarian citizens have a clear path to recognition. Whether automatic at birth or through a parent’s later application, children can gain the full benefits of EU citizenship,  from mobility and education to healthcare and future opportunities.

Want to know if your child qualifies for Bulgarian citizenship by ancestry? Take our eligibility assessment or get connected with an expert now. 

Applying for Bulgarian Citizenship by Ancestry

Foreign citizens of Bulgarian descent may be eligible to reclaim their ancestral citizenship under the Bulgarian Citizenship Act. This pathway allows individuals to reconnect with their family’s heritage while gaining the benefits of European Union citizenship, including mobility, education, and business opportunities across the region.

To qualify, applicants must provide verifiable proof of Bulgarian origin, such as ancestral birth or marriage certificates and submit accurate documentation through the official channels. Working with professional legal representation can help ensure all records meet government standards and prevent unnecessary delays. A complete, well-prepared application greatly increases the likelihood of successful recognition of Bulgarian citizenship by descent.

Start here.