Divorce in Bulgaria is regulated by the Bulgarian Family Code and the Civil Procedure Code (CPC). It is a formal court process that legally ends the marriage and settles issues such as property division, child custody, and maintenance.
Many people avoid filing for divorce due to stress, uncertainty, or fear of financial loss. However, understanding the legal process can help you make informed decisions and protect your rights.
1. Types of Divorce in Bulgaria
In Bulgaria, divorce can be obtained in two main ways:
Divorce by Mutual Consent (Art. 50 Family Code)
Both spouses agree to end the marriage.
The court does not investigate the reasons for the divorce.
The couple must agree on:
Child custody and visitation rights
Child maintenance (amount and payment method)
Division of marital property
Use of the family home
Surname after divorce
This is the fastest and least expensive procedure.
Contested Divorce / Divorce by Claim (Art. 49 Family Code)
One spouse files for divorce due to deep and irreparable breakdown of the marriage.
The court investigates the reasons, hears witnesses, and reviews evidence.
Grounds can include:
Adultery
Domestic violence
Long-term separation
Abandonment
Addiction or abuse
Persistent conflicts destroying family life
The court may determine fault if requested by a party.
2. Divorce Procedure Step-by-Step
Mutual Consent Divorce
Prepare and sign a divorce agreement covering all required issues.
File a joint petition with the District Court at the place of residence.
Attend a single court hearing (personal appearance required).
Court issues a decision dissolving the marriage.
Average duration: 1–3 months
Contested Divorce
File a divorce claim with the District Court where the defendant resides.
Attach evidence supporting the breakdown of the marriage.
Personal appearance required at the first hearing.
The court may issue temporary measures for:
Custody and maintenance of children
Use of the family home
Temporary spousal support
Court hears witnesses, reviews documents, and delivers judgment.
Average duration: 6–18 months (depending on complexity)
3. Costs and Fees
State fees: Paid to the District Court.
Mutual consent divorce – fixed fee (low cost).
Contested divorce – 2% on three years’ worth of child maintenance plus fixed fees.
Lawyer fees: Depend on case complexity and services provided.
Expert witness fees: Applied if property valuations, psychological assessments, or other expert opinions are required.
4. Why Foreigners Divorce in Bulgaria
Many foreign nationals living in Bulgaria or married to Bulgarian citizens choose to file for divorce here because:
Lower costs compared to other EU countries.
Faster mutual consent process.
Recognition of Bulgarian divorce judgments in all EU member states under Regulation (EU) 2019/1111 (Brussels IIb).
Bilingual legal services available for international clients.
4. Legal Arguments for Divorce in Bulgaria
When filing a contested divorce, evidence of deep and irreparable breakdown must be provided. Commonly accepted grounds include:
Continuous marital conflicts causing mental or physical harm.
Domestic violence, supported by police reports or protection orders.
Extramarital relationships damaging trust and family unity.
Persistent refusal to contribute financially or emotionally to the household.
Long-term separation without cohabitation.
Substance abuse affecting family life.
5. Practical Advice Before Filing
Document everything: Keep messages, emails, photos, and witness statements.
Plan custody and maintenance: Courts prioritize the child’s best interest.
Evaluate property rights: Prepare documents proving ownership and value.
Seek legal advice early: This avoids procedural mistakes and protects your position.
6. Our Legal Services
Our family law office in Bulgaria provides:
Full representation in both mutual consent and contested divorces.
Drafting and negotiating divorce agreements.
Child custody and maintenance litigation.
Property division and settlement of matrimonial property disputes.
Assistance for foreigners, including recognition of foreign divorces.
