Information · Guide
Long-term rental in Bulgaria – how it works
Many of our tenants come from Germany, Austria, Switzerland or the UK and want to live by the sea for a year before they buy. Here is how renting in Aheloy and Ravda works – from the contract to registration.
Who long-term rental is for
Anyone who wants to live on the coast year-round or for at least a year: people relocating, retirees, remote workers – and buyers who want to get to know the area first. The apartments are furnished and ready to move into; all you need is your luggage.
We do not offer holiday lets by the week. Long-term rental with us means: at least 12 months, a Bulgarian tenancy agreement and an address you can also register at.
How renting works
1. Viewing – in person or by video if you are not in Bulgaria yet.
2. Tenancy agreement – bilingual German/Bulgarian (English on request) under Bulgarian law; you receive it in advance to read.
3. Deposit and first rent – by bank transfer to the landlord, then you receive the keys.
4. Handover – with a handover protocol and all meter readings (electricity, cold and hot water).
From first contact to moving in often takes only a few days if the apartment is available.
The tenancy agreement
The basis is the Bulgarian Obligations and Contracts Act (Art. 228–239). The agreement runs for 12 months and then continues indefinitely unless either side gives notice. The notice period is then one month.
The apartment is for residential use only; subletting is not permitted under the agreement. Alterations need the landlord's written consent. Normal wear and tear is not your responsibility; minor repairs from everyday use (such as a tap, lock or window handle) are the tenant's under Bulgarian law, as is larger damage you cause. In case of dispute the Bulgarian version applies – which is why we translate carefully and explain every point.
Deposit and costs
Deposit: two months' rent, due on signing. You get it back on the day you hand the apartment over, provided it is in order and no utility bills are outstanding.
Rent: monthly in advance by bank transfer to the landlord.
Agent's fee: half a month's rent for tenants, once.
Electricity, water, heating: by meter, settled directly. Heating and cooling is usually by air conditioning.
Maintenance fee of the complex (pool, garden, cleaning): paid by the landlord – it is included in the rent.
Internet and TV: you sign up yourself; connections are in place.
Rents
For furnished apartments in Aheloy and Ravda, prices in the lowest category start at about €250 for a studio, €300–350 for a two-room apartment and €400–450 for a three-room apartment per month, plus electricity and water by consumption. Depending on location, sea view and furnishings, rents can be higher.
Current offers with photos and conditions: rental properties. For an overview of the price level see our price guide.
Registration and residence
As an EU citizen you may stay in Bulgaria for three months without formalities. If you stay longer, you register with the migration office in Burgas and receive a residence certificate. Besides your ID, health insurance and proof of income you need an address: our tenancy agreement serves as proof of address, and in addition the migration office requires a declaration from the landlord – we arrange that for you.
With registration you receive your Bulgarian personal number for foreigners, which makes many things easier later – bank account, doctors, contracts or a purchase. Citizens of non-EU countries such as the UK need a visa or residence permit first – we are happy to point you to the right contacts.
Good to know
Pets: Whether a dog or cat can move in with you is up to the individual landlord. Tell us when you enquire who is coming along – we are happy to check this for you in advance.
Car: With a vehicle from the EU you drive on your own plates at first; after registering in Bulgaria, deadlines for re-registration apply. We will tell you what currently applies.
Post and parcels in Bulgaria mostly go via parcel shops (Econt, Speedy) – practical and reliable.
Winter: Aheloy and Ravda are inhabited all year; supermarkets, pharmacy, doctors and restaurants are open. More in Living in Aheloy and Living in Ravda.
Looking for a long-term rental?
In the Chateau Aheloy 2 complex we let furnished studios, two- and three-room apartments – a 5 to 7 minute walk from the beach.
As of November 2026. General information without guarantee; it does not replace legal advice. Conditions may differ by landlord – the individual tenancy agreement applies.