Bulgaria, a beautiful country nestled in Southeast Europe, offers rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures, making it an ideal destination for tourists. The introduction of the eVisa system has made it easier for eligible travellers to visit Bulgaria by allowing them to apply for a Bulgarian eVisa quickly and efficiently without needing lengthy paperwork or in-person visits. Bulgaria eVisa is a Schengen Visa, which means those with the eVisa will be able to travel to all Schengen Area countries. The below information will help you explore the countries eligible for the eVisa, countries exempted from the requirement to obtain a visa to enter Bulgaria, the Bulgarian eVisa Application process, required documents, fees, processing time, etc., helping you plan a seamless and stress-free trip to Bulgaria.
Different Types of Visas for Bulgaria
Bulgaria offers various types of visas to foreign nationals who wish to enter and stay in the country for different purposes. Here are the different types of Bulgarian visas and their purposes:
Bulgaria Airport Transit (A Type) eVisa
Bulgaria Short-term (C Type) eVisa
- Bulgaria Transit Visa
- Bulgaria Tourist Visa
- Bulgaria Business Visit Visa
- Bulgaria Private Visit Visa
- Bulgaria Medical Treatment Visa
- Bulgaria Sports Visa
- Bulgaria Cultural Exchange Visa
Bulgaria Long-term (D Type) Visa
- Bulgaria Study (Long-term) Visa
- Bulgaria Work (Long-term) Visa
- Bulgaria Family Reunion Visa
It is important to note that the requirements and application procedures for each type of visa may vary.
Let’s discuss each visa type in detail below:
➤Bulgaria Airport Transit (A Type) Electronic Visa (eVisa)
An airport transit visa is granted to foreign nationals holding a regular travel document (or equivalent), allowing them to transit through Bulgaria’s international airport zone when continuing their journey to another country.
|
Note: A foreigner staying in a transit room of international flights is deemed not admitted to the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria and is not entitled to leave the transit room.
|
Validity and Types of Bulgaria Transit (A Type) eVisa
Types of Bulgaria A Type eVisa
The Type ‘A’ visa can be issued as:
- Single-entry
- Double-entry, or
- Multiple-entry (in exceptional cases).
Validity of Bulgaria A Type eVisa
It has a validity period of up to 3 months from the date of issuance.
Required Documents for Application
To apply for a Type ‘A’ visa, the following documents must be submitted:
- A valid foreign travel document.
- A photocopy of the personal information page and any visa pages in the travel document, as well as permits for stay in the countries along the travel route and/or the final destination country (if applicable).
- A recent passport-sized color photograph.
- Flight booking (a ticket and a copy must be presented before the visa is issued)
By submitting these documents, the applicant ensures they meet the necessary criteria for an airport transit visa to Bulgaria.
➤Bulgaria Short-Term (C Type) Electronic Visa (eVisa)
A Bulgarian short-stay visa can be issued for a single, double or multiple entries.
Short-Stay Transit eVisa
A Short-Stay Visa for Transit is issued to foreign nationals passing through Bulgaria on their way to another country, provided they already hold a valid visa for their final destination. The visa permits one, two, or, in exceptional cases, three transit passages, each for up to two days, and is valid for up to 12 months. The total stay in Bulgaria cannot exceed 90 days within a 6-month period. A transit passage means entering from one country and exiting to another or staying within the airport’s transit area for up to two days.
Citizens with a Schengen visa, long-stay visa, or residence permit from any Schengen Area country, as well as those holding visas from Romania, Cyprus, or Liechtenstein, do not need a transit visa. To apply, travellers must submit the following documents:
- Valid travel document.
- Photocopy of relevant visa pages.
- Completed visa application form with a passport-sized photo.
- Flight booking and proof of onward transport.
- Proof of financial resources (EUR 50 per day).
- Insurance policy covering EUR 30,000 for medical aid and repatriation.
Bulgaria Short-Stay Tourist eVisa
A Bulgarian tourist visa is a type of visa that permits visitors from other countries to come to Bulgaria for a brief vacation. The visa does not allow for any business activity and is normally granted for stays of up to 90 days over a six-month period. Its main goal is to make travel, sightseeing, and other recreational activities easier.
Bulgaria Short Stay Business Visit eVisa
Foreign nationals may enter Bulgaria for brief business visits, such as attending meetings, negotiating contracts, or investigating company prospects, using the Bulgaria Business Visit Visa. The visa is usually granted for amaximum of 90 days within a six-month period and may be extended under certain conditions.
Remember:A separate work visa or work permit is required for everyone who wants to work in Bulgaria.
Bulgaria Short Stay Private Visit eVisa
The Bulgaria Private Visit Visa is a type of visa that allows foreign nationals to visit Bulgaria for the purpose of visiting friends and family members who are residing in the country. The visa is typically issued for a period of up to 90 days within a six-month period and may be extended in certain circumstances.
Bulgaria Medical Treatment eVisa
The Bulgaria Medical Treatment Visa is a type of visa that allows foreign nationals to enter Bulgaria for the purpose of receiving medical treatment or undergoing medical procedures. The visa is typically issued for a period of up to 90 days within a six-month period and may be extended in certain circumstances.
Bulgaria Short Stay Sports eVisa
Bulgaria does issue sports visas for individuals who are travelling to the country to participate in international sports events and their accompanying individuals in their professional capacity. This visa is usually valid for 6 months with a maximum stay of 90 days and can be obtained by filling out the Bulgarian eVisa Application Form.
Bulgaria Short Stay Cultural Exchange eVisa
Bulgaria does offer a cultural exchange visa for individuals who wish to enter the country to participate in scientific, cultural, and artistic activities. This visa is for individuals who want to participate in cultural exchange programs, academic research, or artistic activities in Bulgaria. Cultural exchange eVisa are valid for 6 months with a 90-day stay duration.
|
Bulgaria Multiple Entry Short Stay eVisa
A multiple-entry short-stay visa allows travellers to enter Bulgaria multiple times within the validity period, which can range from 12 months up to 5 years, depending on the applicant's travel history and compliance with visa rules. However, the total time spent in Bulgaria cannot exceed 90 days within any 180-day window. The specific conditions may vary based on the type of visa.
|
➤Bulgaria Long-term (D Type) Visa
Bulgaria offers long-stay visas for individuals wishing to obtain long-term or permanent residence in the country. The visa is valid for up to 6 months (maximum stay of 180 days). For specific categories like researchers, students (less than a year), interns, and business-related individuals, a 1-year visa may be issued, allowing stays of up to 365 days.
This visa also applies to individuals sent for investment purposes by foreign employers under the Investment Promotion Act. The visa allows multiple entries but is revoked once a residence permit is granted.
Bulgaria Study (Long-Term) Visa
- For non-EU/EEA citizens accepted into a Bulgarian university.
- Validity: 3 to 6 months.
- Applicants must provide an acceptance letter from the university and apply at the nearest Bulgarian consulate.
Bulgaria Work (Long-Term) Visa
- For non-EU nationals with a work permit from a Bulgarian employer.
- Validity: Duration of the work permit.
- Applicants must submit relevant documents (e.g., work permit, passport, accommodation proof) and attend a personal interview.
Bulgaria Family Reunion Visa
- For family members of Bulgarian citizens.
- Validity: Typically 6 months.
- Applicants must provide proof of relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificate) and a letter of invitation from the Bulgarian citizen.
Each visa type allows applicants to stay in Bulgaria for the duration of their purpose (study, work, or family reunion). The application process may vary based on nationality and specific circumstances.
Bulgaria eVisa Validity and Stay Duration
The validity and stay duration of the Bulgarian eVisa are dependent on the visa type and purpose of travel, with most eVisas allowing travellers to stay for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.
Extensions The eVisa cannot be extended. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to leave the country and reapply for a new visa if eligible.
|
Important Point to Consider: It is important to note that overstaying your visa in Bulgaria can result in fines, deportation, and future travel restrictions. Therefore, it is essential to check the terms and conditions of your visa and plan your travel accordingly to avoid any issues.
|
Essential Requirements for Obtaining a Bulgarian Visa
To obtain a Bulgarian visa, certain essential requirements must be met. These include:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months after you leave Bulgaria. If your visa enables multiple entries, your passport must be valid for at least three months after you leave Bulgaria. Additionally, it should have 2 blank pages for visa stamp and must be issued within the last 10 years. This ensures that the document is up to date and not expired.
- Completed Visa Application Form: The applicant must complete the Bulgaria visa application form accurately and provide all the required information.
- Passport Photos: The applicant must provide passport-sized photographs that meet the requirements specified by the Bulgarian embassy or consulate. To get detailed information on passport photo requirements, please refer to the Bulgaria Visa Photo Requirement webpage.
- Purpose of Travel: The applicant must provide evidence of the purpose of their travel to Bulgaria, such as an invitation letter, hotel reservation, or flight itinerary.
- Sufficient Funds: The applicant must show proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in Bulgaria, such as bank statements or a sponsorship letter.
- Health Insurance: The applicant must provide proof of travel health insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency treatment during their stay in Bulgaria.
- Additional Requirements: Depending on the type of visa being applied for, additional requirements such as a work permit or proof of enrollment at a Bulgarian university may be necessary.
Point to Note
It is important to note that the requirements and application process may vary depending on the applicant's nationality and the specific circumstances of their visit.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Bulgarian Visa
To apply for a Bulgarian eVisa, you need to follow the Bulgarian eVisa Application process:
Before beginning the application process, you must have:
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Travel insurance
- Flight bookings
- Accommodation details
- Other required documents based on visa type
Complete your application carefully:
- Fill out the online visa application form
- Ensure all information is accurate
- Upload scanned copies of required documents
- Double-check all details before submission
Complete your payment process:
- Submit your completed application
- Pay the visa fee online
- Fee varies based on visa type and processing time
- Multiple payment options available
Wait for your application to be processed:
- Application review by authorities
- Receive your eVisa by email upon approval
- Print a copy of your eVisa
- You're ready to travel to Bulgaria!
Bulgaria eVisa Fees: What Do You Need to Pay?
The Bulgaria eVisa fees differ based on factors such as the type of eVisa, duration of stay, nationality, and the chosen processing method. Please refer to the Bulgaria eVisa Fee page for current and correct information about the fee.
Bulgaria Visa Processing Time: How Long Does It Take?
Three processing methods are available for Bulgarian eVisa applications:
How can I check my Bulgaria eVisa status online?
Follow these easy steps to check your Bulgaria eVisa status online:
- Visit the Bulgarian eVisa status check.
- Fill your application ID and passport number on the designated space.
- Click "Check Status" for visa application updates.
This information allows you to watch your eVisa's status and get real-time updates on its approval.
Guidelines for a Successful Bulgaria eVisa Application
Go through the below tips or guidelines for a successful Bulgarian eVisa application:
- Ensure Document Accuracy: Carefully verify that all documents, such as your passport, photos, and supporting materials, are accurate and match the requirements outlined on the Bulgarian eVisa website. Even minor discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection.
- Submit Clear and Legible Scans: Ensure all documents are scanned clearly and legibly. Low-quality or unclear documents can significantly delay the processing of your eVisa application. Use high-resolution scans to meet the consulate’s specifications.
- Provide Complete and Consistent Information: When filling out the online application form, ensure consistency across all details. Any inconsistencies between your application and supporting documents can lead to complications, so double-check personal information such as names, dates, and passport numbers.
- Apply Well in Advance: To avoid any last-minute issues, submit your application well before your intended travel date. Processing times may vary, and applying early allows you enough time to address any unforeseen problems or requests for additional documentation.
- Confirm Eligibility for eVisa: Double-check that you are eligible for the eVisa. Ensure that your nationality and the purpose of your visit align with the types of visas available for electronic applications. Ineligible applicants should consider other visa options before applying for an e-Visa.
