Navigating Bulgarian VISA Portal and Policies with Travel Guidelines
Bulgaria, a hidden gem in Southeast Europe, continues to attract travelers with its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re heading to Sofia for business, Bansko for skiing, or the Black Sea coast for a summer retreat, understanding the Bulgaria visa process is crucial for hassle-free travel. This guide outlines the updated 2025 visa requirements, application steps, fees, and key travel tips tailored for tourists, professionals, and digital nomads.
Who Needs a Visa to Enter Bulgaria?
Bulgaria, as a member of the European Union, follows specific visa regulations for entry into its territory. While not yet part of the Schengen Area, Bulgaria adheres to EU visa policies and is expected to join Schengen in the near future.
- Citizens of countries outside the EU/EEA and Schengen Area
- Visitors from countries without bilateral visa waiver agreements with Bulgaria
- Long-term visitors planning to study, work, or reside in Bulgaria
Regulatory Policies for Bulgaria Visa Updated
Bulgaria, as a member of the European Union, follows the EU’s common visa policy while maintaining specific national regulations. The country is currently in the process of joining the Schengen Area, which impacts certain visa procedures.
Key Regulatory Frameworks
- EU Visa Code: Bulgaria implements Regulation (EC) No 810/2009 establishing the Community Code on Visas.
- National Legislation: The Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs oversees visa issuance under the Law on Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria.
- Schengen Alignment: While not yet a full Schengen member, Bulgaria follows Schengen visa policies for uniform visa (Type C) issuance.
- Visa Facilitation Agreements: Agreements with several countries simplify visa procedures for their citizens.
Important Policy Updates
Important: As of January 2024, Bulgaria has lifted all COVID-19 related travel restrictions for visa applicants. Standard pre-pandemic procedures now apply.
Types of Bulgaria Visas
Short-Term Visa (Type C):
- For tourism, business meetings, family visits
- Valid for single, double, or multiple entries
- Maximum stay: 90 days in any 180-day period
Long-Term Visa (Type D):
- For individuals planning to work, study, or live in Bulgaria
- Required before applying for residence permit
- Valid for 6–12 months
Airport Transit Visa (Type A):
- For non-Schengen travelers transiting via Bulgarian airports
- Not required for most nationals transiting for less than 24 hours
Important Note: Bulgaria recognizes Schengen visas and residence permits for entry. Holders of valid Schengen visas (Type C) can enter Bulgaria for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without requiring an additional Bulgarian visa.
Bulgaria Visa Requirements
To apply for a Bulgarian visa, prepare the following documents:
General Entry Requirements
All visa applicants must meet the following basic requirements:
- Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond the intended stay
- Completed visa application form with recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of stay
- Travel medical insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000
- Documentation supporting the purpose of visit (invitation, hotel booking, etc.)
- Return ticket or proof of onward travel arrangements
Additional Documents by Visa Category
Tourist Visa
- Detailed travel itinerary
- Proof of employment/occupation
- For minors: birth certificate and notarized parental consent
Business Visa
- Invitation letter from Bulgarian company
- Business registration of inviting company
- Letter from employer confirming business purpose
Student Visa
- Official admission letter from Bulgarian educational institution
- Proof of tuition payment
- Academic transcripts and certificates
Biometric Data Collection
First-time applicants aged 12 and above must provide biometric data (10 fingerprints and digital photograph) at the visa application center. Biometric data is stored in the Visa Information System (VIS) for 5 years.
📌 All documents not in English or Bulgarian must be translated and notarized.
Bulgaria Visa Fee Structure
Visa fees for Bulgaria are standardized according to EU regulations and vary based on visa type, applicant age, and nationality. All fees are non-refundable regardless of application outcome.
Standard Visa Fees
| Visa Category | Standard Fee (EUR) | Reduced Fee (EUR) | Applicant Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Stay Visa (Type C) | 80 € | 40 € | Adults and children above 12 years |
| Long-Stay Visa (Type D) | 100 € | 50 € | All applicants (reduced for certain categories) |
| Airport Transit Visa (Type A) | 80 € | 40 € | Applicable for specific nationalities |
| Multiple Entry Visa | 120 € | 60 € | Valid for 1-5 years based on assessment |
* Fees may be charged in equivalent local currency at the current exchange rate of the consulate or visa center.
Exemptions and Reduced Fees
Certain categories of applicants are eligible for fee exemptions or reduced fees:
- Children under 6 years of age (full exemption)
- School pupils, students, and accompanying teachers on educational trips
- Researchers traveling for scientific research purposes
- Representatives of non-profit organizations under 25 years participating in events
- Family members of EU/EEA citizens (with proof of relationship)
- Diplomatic and service passport holders on official duty
Service Fees: In addition to consular fees, visa application centers may charge service fees for processing applications. These fees vary by country and service provider but typically range between 20-40 EUR.
Payment Methods
Visa fees can be paid through various methods depending on the application location:
- Cash (in local currency equivalent)
- Credit/Debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro)
- Bank transfers (for pre-arranged appointments)
- Online payment (available at select visa centers)
Visa Application Process Step-by-Step
The Bulgaria visa application process involves several steps that must be completed in sequence. Processing times vary based on visa type, nationality, and time of year.
Determine Visa Type
Identify the correct visa category based on your travel purpose and duration of stay.
Complete Application
Fill out the online application form accurately. Print and sign the completed form.
Gather Documents
Prepare all required supporting documents as per the checklist for your visa type.
Schedule Appointment
Book an appointment at the nearest Bulgarian embassy/consulate or visa application center.
Submit Application
Attend your appointment, submit documents, provide biometric data, and pay the visa fee.
Track & Collect
Monitor your application status and collect your passport once a decision is made.
Processing Timeframes
- Standard processing: 15 calendar days from application date
- Extended processing: Up to 45 days for additional scrutiny or during peak seasons
- Express service: Available at some locations for an additional fee (5-7 days)
Pro Tip: Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date to account for processing time and potential delays.
💡 Fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.
Early application (at least 4 weeks before travel) is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
Travel Tips for Bulgaria
- Currency: Bulgarian Lev (BGN) – not the Euro
- Language: Bulgarian, but English is widely understood in cities
- Transport: Use bus or train between cities; taxis in cities are affordable
- Internet: Strong mobile and Wi-Fi coverage; ideal for digital nomads
- Weather: Winter (Dec–Feb) is ideal for skiing, summer (Jun–Sep) for beach trips
Bulgaria Visa – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
- Short-Stay Visa (Type C): Tourism, business, family visits (up to 90 days).
- Long-Stay Visa (Type D): Work, study, residence, family reunification.
- Airport Transit Visa (Type A): For airport transit only.
- Valid passport (minimum 3 months beyond stay)
- Completed visa application form
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Confirmed travel itinerary
- Hotel reservation or invitation letter
- Travel medical insurance (€30,000 coverage)
- Proof of financial means
- Employment or business documents
- €80 – Adults
- €40 – Children (6–12 years)
- Free – Children under 6
Processing time usually takes:
- Up to 15 working days
- May extend to 30 days in special cases
Yes, applicants must book an appointment at:
- Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate
- Authorized visa application centers
Yes, fingerprints and photographs are required for most applicants and stored according to EU regulations.
You can stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Bulgaria applies Schengen rules. If your visa allows multiple entry, you may travel according to the permitted conditions.
Visa extensions are granted only in exceptional cases such as humanitarian or medical reasons.
- Insufficient financial proof
- Incomplete or false documents
- Unclear travel purpose
- Weak travel history
- Lack of insurance
Note: Visa regulations may change. Always verify details with official Bulgarian authorities.