How to Apply for ETIAS for Bulgaria in 2026

Bulgaria became a full member of the Schengen zone on January 1st, 2025, which means quite a few things changed for travelers hoping to visit there.

One of the things that changed is the entry requirements. Which, for the Schengen area as a whole, are continuing to grow and evolve.

Starting at the end of 2026, ETIAS will be required for millions of people who want to visit Bulgaria.

But who exactly needs it? And what exactly is it for? We're going to answer that here.

New requirement for Bulgaria: ETIAS

Depending on a few things, namely nationality, some travelers have to apply for a visa before they are able to set foot in Bulgaria. On the other hand, many do not.

Starting at the end of 2026, the majority of foreigners heading to Bulgaria will need either a Schengen visa or ETIAS.

If you hold a passport from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, or any other visa-exempt country, you will need to apply for ETIAS before going to Bulgaria.

What is it for?

ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization. The US requires visa-exempt travelers to go through a similar process before visiting the States. It is called ESTA and was fully launched in 2009. The UK also has a similar requirement, called ETA.

ETIAS gives the destination country a bit more information about travelers before they arrive, like their name, travel plans, and a little bit of personal history.

Most people who apply for an ETIAS get approved within a few minutes.

Exemptions

Most visa-exempt travelers will need to apply. That said, there are a few specific cases where travelers do not need to apply for ETIAS before visiting Bulgaria.

• Schengen visa holders do not need to apply for ETIAS.
• Bulgarian visa holders.
• Legal residents and citizens of any country in the Schengen area.
• If you have dual citizenship with an EU/Schengen country.
• Some diplomatic passports may be exempt.
• Exemptions may be made for refugees or stateless persons.

You can learn more about specific cases and exemptions on the official ETIAS site.

Learn more about whether or not you require a visa to visit Bulgaria in our Bulgaria visa guide.

How to get ETIAS for Bulgaria

The platform hasn't launched yet, but the official ETIAS website has, which you can find here. Whether you're applying for an ETIAS for Bulgaria or anywhere else in the zone, you'll use the same website or mobile app.

While the exact process isn't yet known, we do have details about what you'll need in order to apply, as well as what the application will be like.

The European Union promises that the entire process is 100% online or in-app, and quick.

• Either apply online or download the ETIAS mobile app.
• Follow the prompts. You'll be asked to give your name, travel details, nationality, passport number, and some other information.
• Answer a few questions about your personal history. According to the official European Union website, you’ll be asked to share your level of education, occupation, and your parents’ first names. You'll also be asked about past criminal convictions.
• Pay a fee: To get a visa for your trip to Bulgaria, you'll need to pay 20 euros per applicant between the ages of 18 and 70.
• Wait for approval: ETIAS approval is given within minutes in the majority of cases, and you will be notified of your approval by email. Keep in mind that, while uncommon, approval can take up to 30 days (so make sure you plan accordingly!)

Your ETIAS is valid for up to three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. When you’re ready to reapply, just follow the steps above again.

Bulgaria ETIAS allowances

ETIAS isn't like a visa. While they both are entry requirements, they serve completely different purposes.

ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization, meaning you submit your information and then get approved to travel into the Schengen area (which Bulgaria is a member of).

It doesn't allow you to work (even remotely), look for a job, establish residency, or to stay longer than 90 days. If you're hoping to do any of these things, you'll need to get a visa.

However, once you apply for your ETIAS for one country (like Bulgaria), it is valid for all of the other countries in the zone until it expires/you get a new passport. Once that happens, you can simply reapply.

Bulgaria ETIAS FAQs