Visa & Entry Requirements by Country in Sofia, Bulgaria
1. Bulgarian Schengen Visa
For non-EU/EEA citizens visiting multiple Schengen countries, including Bulgaria. Requires a valid passport, application form, photos, travel insurance, proof of sufficient funds.
- Length of Stay: Maximum stay of 90 days in a 180-day period
- Processing Time: Typically 15 calendar days, can be expedited for a fee
- Biometric Data: Applicants must provide biometric data at visa application center
2. Bulgarian National Visa
For non-EU/EEA citizens staying in Bulgaria for more than 90 days. Requires a valid passport, application form, photos, travel insurance, proof of sufficient funds, invitation letter from host if applicable.
- Validity Period: Varies depending on the purpose and length of stay
- Renewal: Can be renewed within Bulgaria for the same period
- Multiple Entries: Allows multiple entries to Bulgaria during its validity
3. Bulgarian Transit Visa
For non-EU/EEA citizens transiting through Bulgaria en route to a third country. Requires a valid passport, application form, photos, proof of onward travel.
- Stay Duration: Maximum stay of 5 days
- Transit via Airport: Applies only for transit through Sofia Airport
- Processing Time: Typically 10 calendar days, can be expedited for a fee
4. Bulgaria e-Visa
Online visa application system for select nationalities. Requires a valid passport, application form, photos, proof of sufficient funds, travel insurance.
- Eligibility: Only for certain nationalities, check eligibility before applying
- Processing Time: Typically 3-5 working days after submission
- Validity Period: Varies depending on the type of e-Visa issued
5. European Visa Bulletin
Official website providing information on Schengen visa application status and processing times.
- Real-time Updates: Provides real-time updates on the status of applications
- Processing Times: Displays average processing times for different embassies
- Contact Information: Offers contact information for visa application centers
6. Bulgaria Visa Application Center
Facility for submitting and collecting visa applications. Requires appointment, documents as per visa type.
- Service Charge: Charges a service fee in addition to the visa fee
- Location: Located in major cities worldwide
- Appointment Booking: Can be booked online or by phone
7. Bulgaria Visa Requirements Checker
Online tool to check visa requirements based on nationality and purpose of visit.
- Ease of Use: Simple and intuitive interface
- Accuracy: Provides accurate information based on the latest regulations
- Quick Results: Results are displayed instantly after entering details
8. Bulgaria Travel Insurance Requirement
Requires proof of valid travel insurance to cover medical expenses and repatriation costs during stay.
- Minimum Coverage: Minimum coverage amount varies depending on visa type
- Validity Period: Coverage should be valid throughout the stay in Bulgaria
- Included Services: Includes emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation costs
9. Bulgaria Invitation Letter Requirement
Requires an invitation letter from the host in Bulgaria for certain visa types.
- Content: Includes details about the applicant, purpose of visit, and accommodation
- Authenticity: Must be signed by the host and submitted with other documents
- Language: Written in Bulgarian, English, or French
10. Bulgaria Proof of Sufficient Funds Requirement
Requires proof that the applicant has sufficient funds to cover their expenses during stay.
- Amount Required: Varies depending on visa type and length of stay
- Evidence: Can be bank statements, traveler's cheques, or a combination
- Validity Period: Should cover the entire duration of stay in Bulgaria
11. Bulgaria Travel Health Insurance Requirement
Requires proof of valid health insurance to cover medical expenses during the trip.
- Minimum Coverage: Covers emergency medical treatment and hospitalization
- Validity Period: Should cover the entire duration of stay in Bulgaria
- Included Services: Includes emergency medical evacuation, repatriation costs, and other expenses
12. Bulgaria Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirement
Requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate for travelers coming from infected areas.
- Validity Period: Vaccine should be valid at least 10 days before arrival
- Exemptions: Infants under 9 months are exempted from the requirement
- Documentation: The certificate should be in English or French and issued by an authorized healthcare provider
13. Bulgaria COVID-19 Travel Requirements
Requires a negative COVID-19 test result or proof of vaccination for travelers entering Bulgaria.
- Test Type: Accepts PCR and rapid antigen tests
- Validity Period: Test should be taken within 72 hours before departure
- Vaccination Requirement: Accepts WHO-approved vaccines
14. Bulgaria Passport Validity Requirement
Requires a passport with at least 6 months validity beyond the intended stay in Bulgaria.
- Minimum Validity Period: At least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
- Renewal: Can be renewed before the expiration date
- Duplicate Passport: A duplicate passport can be obtained if the original is lost or stolen
15. For foreigners staying in Bulgaria beyond their permitted duration.
(No Description)
- Validity Period: Varies depending on the purpose and circumstances
- Renewal Procedure: Can be applied for at the local police station
- Fees: Fees are payable at the time of application