Our Bulgaria Visa Guide will teach you everything you need to know about Bulgaria’s visa policy for people from all over the world, including different types of visas, particular requirements, visa sponsorships, visa fees, and more. It is critical to have a scheduled flight ticket in hand before applying for a visa to Bulgaria.
Who needs a visa to visit Bulgaria?
All non-visa exempt foreign nationals must apply for a Bulgarian visa in order to enter the country. All children under the age of six, even those from countries requiring a visa, are free from visa requirements when entering Bulgaria.
Entry into Bulgaria
Bulgaria has eliminated all entry restrictions connected to COVID-19. Passengers are not needed to present any COVID-19-related documents (i.e. COVID-19 Vaccination Certificates, Recovery Certificates, or PCR/Antigen test results) upon arrival, regardless of where their voyage began.
The government has developed a plan to reintroduce COVID-19-related restrictions should the number of COVID-19 cases in Bulgaria begin to rise again. It will be deployed region-by-region in accordance with COVID-19 statistics. Here is further information on the whole list of restrictions and affected regions.
At Sofia, masks are currently needed in hospitals, medical facilities, and senior care facilities. Anyone considering a trip to Bulgaria should verify the most recent information with the local government.
Eligibility to apply for a Bulgarian visa
In order to qualify for a Bulgarian visa, you must meet their strict criteria. Anyone wanting to travel it is advised if a visa is needed to ensure all regards to that are taken care of before travel. This criteria is listed below.
Form for the application of a Bulgarian visa, typed and signed.
Your passport or other travel document must have at least two blank pages in order for the visa to be affixed.
Photocopies of the passport's information page and any previously issued visas.
Processing time for Bulgarian visas
Applicants must wait up to 35 business days for the visa to be issued, stamped, and returned along with their passport. In the majority of instances, the average waiting period is between 20 and 30 working days.
Appointment waiting times
Applications cannot be submitted more than 3 months prior to departure. Appointment waiting times can take up to 15 calendar days after receiving the application.
Who can visit Bulgaria without a visa?
Bulgaria grants visa-free entry to holders of multiple valid Schengen visas. They will be permitted to enter and reside in the Republic of Bulgaria for up to three months in any six-month period from the date of their initial admission without a Bulgarian visa for short stays.
Bulgarian visa types
There are three different types of visas available in Bulgaria. The type of trip you are taking will depend on what sort of visa you need. Please ensure you have the correct visa before trying to enter the Country. The three types of visas are:
- Bulgaria Airport Transit Visa
- Bulgaria Visa for a Short Stay
- Bulgaria Long-Stay Visa
What to do if your Bulgarian visa is refused?
A refusal of a residence permit may be appealed within fourteen calendar days of receiving the letter of refusal. We urge you to contact us as soon as possible to guarantee a successful appeal of the denial. You have the right to contest this verdict. The embassy of the Member State that opted to deny the visa distributes a standard form to notify the applicant of the decision to deny a Schengen visa and the reasons for the denial.
People also asked...
You may visit Bulgaria visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you are travelling as a tourist, to see family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sporting events, or for short-term training or study.
You can also follow the status of your visa application online. Use the Reference Number and your date of birth found on the invoice/receipt issued by the Visa Application Centre to access this service.
Applicants must wait up to 35 business days for the visa to be issued, stamped, and returned along with their passport. In the majority of instances, the average waiting period is between 20 and 30 working days.