The southeast European nation of Bulgaria is stunning and situated on the Balkan Peninsula. Due to its pleasant temperature, extensive cultural legacy, and reasonable cost of living, it is a well-liked immigration destination for people from all over the globe. People with criminal records who want to immigrate to Bulgaria may encounter a variety of difficulties. This is because the immigration authorities in Bulgaria take criminal records seriously. These records may have a big influence on someone’s eligibility to enter and live in the country.
Criminal history types and how they impact immigration
Understanding the many categories of criminal history and how they impact immigration is crucial. Misdemeanor, felony, and immigration crimes are the three basic categories into which criminal records may be divided. A maximum term of one year or less is imposed for misdemeanor charges, which are minor offenses. Misdemeanor crimes include things like petty drug charges, disorderly behavior, and traffic offenses. Contrarily, felonies are more severe offenses that result in a prison term of more than a year. Crimes that qualify as felonies include rape, robbery, and murder. Crimes against the public good or moral standards are known as immigration offenses, often referred to as crimes of moral turpitude. Fraud, drug trafficking, and money laundering are a few examples of immigration violations. The barriers to getting a visa or residence in Bulgaria are higher for persons with criminal convictions than for those without. This is because people with criminal histories are seen as possible risks to society by Bulgarian authorities, who are worried about public safety and security. A person’s ability to acquire a job, housing, or educational prospects in the nation may also be hampered by criminal records.
The actions the government has taken
The Bulgarian government has implemented several steps to examine potential applicants for visas or resident permits. One such requirement is the need to provide a certificate of police clearance. All visitors who want to remain in Bulgaria for longer than three months must provide this document. The Bulgarian authorities will carefully review the specifics of the crime and the sentence given if a person has a criminal history. Minor infractions like traffic violations or petit theft may not pose substantial obstacles to someone trying to get a visa or residence card. However, people who have engaged in more severe crimes including drug trafficking, fraud, or violent crimes may be subject to stricter screening and might be refused entrance. Particularly vulnerable to denial of entrance into Bulgaria are those with a criminal immigration record. This is because these acts are seen as being against the interests of the general public. Those who have committed them are regarded as potential threats to society. People who have been found guilty of immigration violations may have their residence permits revoked or their admission privileges denied by the Bulgarian government.
Actions people may do to increase their prospects of obtaining immigration status
Those who want to come to Bulgaria but have a criminal record may be able to take measures to increase their chances of success. Several such tactics are as follows:
Ask for legal counsel
Before applying for immigration status in Bulgaria, those with criminal records have to think about getting legal counsel. A knowledgeable immigration attorney may provide advice on the best course of action and assist in assessing the possible effects of a criminal record.
Make the record public
For someone with a criminal background, it’s crucial should be truthful while requesting immigration status in Bulgaria on their past. Immigration officials are likely to regard attempts to hide a criminal past adversely and may refuse entrance or residence.
Show proof of your recuperation
By demonstrating their level of rehabilitation, those with a criminal past may be able to increase their chances of being granted immigration status. This could show proof of community service, a letter of recommendation from a parole or probation officer, or documentation of successful completion of a drug or alcohol treatment program.
Request a waiver
Criminal history holders may sometimes be eligible to get a waiver of their inadmissibility. This is a discretionary measure that could be approved under certain situations. Waivers are normally only given in situations when the person’s criminal history does not endanger the public and there are strong justifications for doing so.
It is crucial to understand that not all criminal histories will result in the Bulgarian government refusing to provide a visa or residence card. The kind of crime, the sentence issued, and the person’s overall circumstances are all taken into consideration when determining whether to grant or refuse a visa or residence permit.
You may also find these articles helpful
Things to know before immigrating to Bulgaria
Traveling to Bulgaria: Visa requirements
Living in Bulgaria – Expat life
