Bulgaria Visa Types and Categories for Travelers Planning to Visit Bulgaria
If you are planning a trip to Bulgaria, you will be captivated by the charming cobblestone streets of Sofia, the rich history of Plovdiv, or the serene beaches along the Black Sea. To make your journey seamless, understanding the different types of visas or eVisas Bulgaria offers can help streamline your travel plans.
Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, or to explore cultural ties, Bulgaria’s eVisa system ensures a smooth Bulgaria eVisa Application process. The below information will walk you through the various visa or eVisa types tailored for your specific travel needs, making your trip to Bulgaria easier than ever.
Types of Bulgarian Visas
Airport Transit eVisa (Type A)
Short-Stay Visa (Type C)
Short Stay Transit eVisa
Tourist eVisa
Business Visit eVisa
Private Visit eVisa
Medical Treatment eVisa
Sports eVisa
Cultural Exchange eVisa
Bulgaria Long-Stay (D Type) Visa
Study Visa
Work Visa
Family Reunion Visa
Airport Transit eVisa (Type A)
An airport transit eVisa (type A) allows travellers to pass through the country without staying. To get complete details on this visa type, go to the Bulgaria Airport Transit Visa webpage.
Feature
Details
Duration
Validity is three months from the date of its issue.
Entry Type
Single, double or, as an exception, multiple,
Restrictions
Must remain in the transit area (airport, port, etc.)
Purpose
Passing through Bulgaria on the way to another destination.
Documents Required to get a Bulgaria Airport Transit Visa
When applying for an airport transit visa, the following documents must be submitted along with the application:
A valid foreign travel document.
A photocopy of the pages from the travel document with personal information, visas, and permits for countries along the route and the final destination, if required.
A recent passport-size colour photograph.
A flight booking.
The ticket and a copy must be presented before the airport transit visa can be issued.
Short-Stay Visa (Type C)
The Short-Stay Visa (Type C) is designed for various purposes, including transit, tourism, business visits, private visits, medical treatment, participation in sports events, and cultural exchange activities in Bulgaria. It can be issued for single, double, or multiple entries.
Let’s Go through each Short-Stay Visa (Type C) in Detail below
Transit eVisa
Category
Detail
When is it issued?
A short-stay visa for transit is issued to a foreigner wishing to transit through Bulgaria en route to another state for which they have a visa (if required).
Transit Visa Validity
The visa is valid for a maximum of 12 months and can be used for one, two, or sometimes three transit crossings, each lasting two days.
Duration of Stay
The overall duration of stay may not exceed 90 days within 6 months from the date of first entry.
Definition of ‘Transit’ Passage
Entering one state and leaving another is known as a transit passage. When flights from and to different states arrive and leave within two days, the process is known as airport transit.
Documents Required to get a Bulgaria Short-Stay Transit Visa
The following document is required in order to apply:
Travel Document: A current passport from another country.
A photocopy of the travel document includes copies of the pages including the permits, visas, and personal information for the next state or destination.
A passport-size photograph.
Proof of Financial Resources: At least 50 euros (or 200 euros if you're going by car).
Insurance Policy: A valid policy from an EU-licensed provider that covers at least EUR 30,000.
Tourist eVisa
The short-stay tourist eVisa for Bulgaria offers travellers the perfect opportunity to explore the country’s rich history, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes. Please refer to the Bulgaria Tourist Visa for detailed information on application requirements, documentation, and eligibility criteria.
Features
Details
Purpose
Sightseeing, family visits, leisure
Validity
6 months
Stay Duration
90 days
Work Authorization
Not allowed
Required Documents
Passport, Passport-size photograph, Travel itinerary, accommodation, funds proof, etc.
Business Visit eVisa
TheShort-Stay Business Visit eVisa for Bulgariais ideal for professionals seeking to engage in business activities, attend meetings, or participate in conferences. Please refer to the Bulgaria Business Visa for detailed application requirements and eligibility criteria.
Features
Detail
Purpose
Meetings, conferences, seminars, etc.
Duration
Stay up to 90 days in 6 months.
Work Authorization
Not Allowed
Required Documents
Passport
Funds proof
Passport-size photograph
Accommodation
Travel itinerary, etc.
Private Visit eVisa
The Private Visit eVisa (Type C) is the best choice if you are travelling to see friends or relatives who are Bulgarian citizens. For more details on the application process and requirements, please refer to the Bulgaria Private Visit Visa.
Features
Detail
Purpose
Visit family or friends
Work Authorization
Not Allowed
Validity
6 months
Stay Duration
90 days
Documents Required
Invitation letter, relationship proof, etc.
Medical Treatment eVisa
The Medical Treatment eVisa is designed for those needing medical care in Bulgaria. It grants entry for medical purposes, ensuring access to treatment in Bulgarian health facilities. For more information on application requirements and documentation, please refer to the Bulgaria Medical Treatment Visa.
Features
Detail
Purpose
Medical Treatment
Validity
6 Months
Stay Duration
90 Days
Required Documents
Passport, Medical certificate from Bulgarian hospital, etc.
Can it be extended?
A Bulgarian medical treatment eVisa can be extended in case of emergency.
Sports eVisa
For athletes and sports professionals attending competitions or related events in Bulgaria, the Sports eVisa provides a short stay for such activities. Be sure to go through the Bulgaria Sports Visa for detailed information on the application process and requirements.
Features
Detail
Purpose
Participation in sports events.
Eligibility Criteria
Athletes and sports professionals attending sports events, tournaments, or training camps in Bulgaria.
Stay Duration
90 Days
Validity
6 months
Documents Required
Invitation letter from the event organizer, proof of sports activity, etc.
Travel Restrictions
The visa does not permit employment or business activities outside the event.
Cultural Exchange eVisa
The Cultural Exchange eVisa is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Bulgaria's vibrant cultural, scientific, or artistic communities. For full details on this visa type, please refer to the Bulgaria Cultural Exchange Visa webpage.
Features
Detail
Purpose
Scientific, cultural, or artistic activities.
Duration
Stay up to 90 days within a 6-month validity period.
Work Authorization
Not Allowed.
Family Accompaniment
Possible, with appropriate documentation and visa requirements.
Travel Restrictions
This visa type is limited to cultural, scientific, or artistic activities; no business work is allowed.
Document Needed
Invitation letter from the host institution, proof of event or program participation, etc.
Long Stay Visa (Type D)
There are a number of long-term visa categories intended for employment, family reunion, education, and other objectives if you want to stay or work in Bulgaria for an extended length of time. Depending on the purpose of the visit, a long-stay visa may be granted for a maximum of six months or a maximum of one year, with the possibility of multiple entries within the validity period.
Note: Once you arrive in Bulgaria and receive a permit to stay from the Bulgarian authorities, your long-stay visa is cancelled. The permit for stay replaces the visa and serves as your legal authorization to remain in the country.
Study Visa
For students enrolled in Bulgarian institutions, the Study Visa allows foreign nationals to stay in Bulgaria for educational purposes. Go to the Bulgaria Study Visa webpage for detailed information on application requirements and eligibility.
Features
Detail
Purpose
Full-time studies at a recognised institution.
Validity and Stay Duration
The visa may be valid for up to 12 months, and the stay can last up to 360 days (1 year).
Work Allowed
Part-time work is allowed.
Required Documents
Acceptance letter, proof of funds, accommodation, etc.
Work Visa
If you have a job offer in Bulgaria or want to start a business there, the work visa allows you to remain and work there for an extended period of time. Go to the Bulgaria Work Visa webpage for detailed information on the application process and requirements.
Features
Detail
Purpose
Employment in Bulgaria
Validity and Stay Duration
Upto 360 days
Working Rights
Full working rights
Documents Needed?
Employment contract, work permit, passport, etc.
What activities are restricted?
Engaging in unauthorised employment.
Working without proper permits.
Engaging in political or public policy roles.
Family Reunion Visa
This visa is for family members of Bulgarian citizens or residents who wish to reunite with their loved ones in Bulgaria. For more information on the application process and eligibility, please refer to the Bulgaria Family Reunion Visa webpage.
Features
Details
Purpose
Family reunification
Duration
Up to 365 days
Work Authorisation
Allowed under specific conditions
Required Documents
Proof of relationship, financial support, etc.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Bulgaria visa type is crucial for ensuring a hassle-free experience, whether you are visiting for a short stay or planning to move. Make sure to understand the specific requirements and restrictions for each visa type, and always check the Bulgaria eVisa website for the most up-to-date information.
This guide is designed to help you select the appropriate visa for your needs, but remember that specific visa requirements can vary based on your nationality and purpose of travel.
Generally Asked Questions
Tourism and business short-stay visas are seldom extended. You must leave the country and apply for a new visa or long-stay visa if you want to remain longer than 90 days in 180 days.
Medical Treatment eVisa applicants must produce a medical certificate from a certified Bulgarian health institution verifying treatment requirements. You must also present evidence of lodging and enough money for medical and stay expenses.
Overstaying a transit eVisa might result in penalties, deportation, or limitations on future travel to Bulgaria or the Schengen Area. It's crucial to follow visa rules to prevent legal difficulties.
Bulgarian eVisas cost money. Application costs vary by visa type and number of entries (single, double, or multiple). Visit the Bulgaria Visa Feepage.
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