Bulgaria Visas: A Full Guide

Whether you're traveling to Bulgaria for tourism, business, study, or other reasons, navigating the visa application process can seem complicated.

That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive guide, breaking down everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and straightforward visa application experience for your upcoming trip to Bulgaria.

From the cathedrals in Sofia to the ancient ruins of Nessebar, we hope you enjoy your journey to Bulgaria – wherever it may take you.

Do I need a visa to go to Bulgaria?

Sometimes. Whether you need a visa depends on the reason for and length of your stay, as well as your nationality.

If you're not a citizen of a visa-exempt country, such as China or India, you will need a visa in order to travel to Bulgaria.

Do US citizens need a visa for Bulgaria?

For short visits of up to 90 days, US citizens do not need a visa to enter Bulgaria for tourism or business trip purposes. However, if your plans include staying longer or working or studying, a visa will likely be required.

Who doesn’t need a visa to visit Bulgaria?

Citizens of the Schengen area, EU, and EEA member countries do not need a visa to travel to Bulgaria.

Additionally, nationals of several countries with visa waiver agreements, such as Canada, Australia, and the United States, can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If they would like to stay longer than 90 days, a visa is required.

How do I apply for a Bulgaria visa?

The application process for a Bulgarian visa depends on your reason for visiting, as well as how long you’d like to stay. Once you determine the appropriate visa type, you’ll need to gather the required documents and submit your application to the nearest Bulgarian consulate or embassy.

Can I apply for a Bulgaria visa online?

In the coming years, all Schengen visa applications (which includes Bulgaria) will be done online through a legitimate and secure platform called EU VAP. While not accessible yet, it’s expected to be fully operational by 2030.

Is getting a Bulgaria visa difficult?

For short-term visits, like tourism or business, Bulgaria visas are relatively straightforward as long as you meet the requirements. Long-term visas or special permits, such as work or study visas, may require more detailed documentation.

What is the rejection rate for Bulgaria visas?

Because Bulgaria is a new member of the Schengen area, detailed data has yet to be released. With that being said, most refusals occur due to incomplete applications or insufficient evidence of financial means.

What is the processing time for a Bulgaria visa?

Visa processing times can vary depending on a variety of factors. Typically, Bulgaria visa processing times range from 10 to 20 business days for short-term visas. Long-term visa applications, such as work or student visas, may take longer – up to 60 or more days in some cases.

Bulgaria visa application requirements

The exact requirements will depend on the type of visa you are applying for, whether it's a visitor, business, student, or work visa. Knowing the necessary documents ahead of time is crucial for a smooth application process, therefore it’s important to always double-check with your visa center or consulate.

Which documents are needed for a Bulgaria visa?

Typically, you’ll need:

• A completed visa application form
• A recent passport-sized photo
• A passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay
• Proof of Schengen travel insurance
• Proof of accommodation
• Evidence of sufficient financial means
• A return or onward flight ticket

Bulgaria visitor visa requirements (Type C, short-stay)

For short-term stays (under 90 days), you'll need to provide the documents listed above.

Type D (long-stay) Bulgaria visa requirements

For those planning to stay in Bulgaria for over 90 days, such as for work or study, you’ll likely need additional documents like proof of employment, a work contract, or proof of school enrollment. It depends on your specific reason for traveling to Bulgaria and the visa you're applying for. Rest assured that the visa center or consulate will provide you with a list of which documents are required.

Bulgaria digital nomad visa

Although Bulgaria does not yet offer a dedicated digital nomad visa, freelancers can apply for work visas if they meet the relevant criteria.

Is there an interview when applying for a Bulgaria visa?

For all Schengen visas, an interview is required. This interview must take place at a Bulgarian consulate, visa center, or embassy in the country of your residence. These appointments are usually straightforward, focusing on your travel intentions and your documents.

How much does a Bulgaria visa cost?

The fees for a Bulgaria visa can vary. You can expect to pay anywhere from €90 for a Schengen visa, but long-stay visas will typically cost more. Keep in mind that visa fees can change, so always check with the Bulgarian embassy. In addition to that, it’s important to know that Bulgaria visa fees are non-refundable, even in the event of application rejection.

Do I need to apply for ETIAS to visit Bulgaria?

From 2025, ETIAS will be required for citizens from visa-exempt countries (such as the US, Canada, and Australia). If you're traveling from a country with visa-free access to the Schengen zone, you’ll need to apply for ETIAS before your trip from 2025 onward.

If you’re already applying for a Schengen visa, once your application is approved, you do not need to apply for ETIAS. It’s more of a “one or the other” thing.

Is Bulgaria part of the Schengen zone?

Yes, Bulgaria is part of the Schengen zone and has the same requirements and advantages as visas from other Schengen area countries. Your Bulgarian visa generally allows you to automatically travel within the Schengen zone without passing through border control.

Can I travel within the EU with a Bulgaria visa?

Your Bulgarian visa typically allows you to visit most of the countries in the EU - those that are also part of the Schengen area agreement. It doesn’t allow you to travel to all countries in the EU, however.

Major takeaways for Bulgaria visas

• There are a variety of visa types for Bulgaria.
• Some visas allow you to work abroad, others don’t.
• Each Bulgaria visa type has specific document requirements.
• Bulgaria is part of the Schengen zone.
• To apply, you must have Schengen-compliant visa insurance.
• In most cases, you must provide proof of sufficient funds, accommodation, and flights
• Processing times vary from 10 days to 60 days or more.
• US citizens only require a Bulgaria visa for stays longer than 90 days.
• US citizens, 2025 onward, will need to apply for ETIAS for stays shorter than 90 days.
• In the coming years, you will be able to apply for Bulgarian visas online with EU VAP.