Bulgarian Visa Explanation (and Travel Tips!)
Bulgaria, with its historic buildings and natural beauty, is an appealing destination for tourists and individuals seeking a longer stay. However, understanding the type of visa required is an essential step before setting foot in this country. From short-term visitor visas to long-term residence permits for various purposes, each type comes with its own specific requirements and conditions.
This article will explore the different types of visas available, the requirements that must be met, and the steps involved in the application process. Additionally, we provide a guide on the essential preparations needed before traveling to Bulgaria. With this information, we are hoping that you will be better equipped to navigate the administrative process and enjoy a smoother journey.
Types of Bulgarian Visas
When planning a visit to Bulgaria, you need to consider the visa type based on your purpose and stay duration. To help you get started, here's a breakdown of each visa category.
1. Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
Visa A, or the Airport Transit Visa, is required for individuals transiting through Bulgaria to another destination. Holders of this visa are only permitted to remain in the international transit zone of the airport and are not allowed to enter Bulgarian territory.
2. Short-Stay Visa (Type C)
Visa C, or the Short-Stay Visa, is intended for short visits with purposes such as tourism, business, or family visits. This visa allows holders to stay in Bulgaria for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Example Photo of Visa Type C. Source:
Application Procedure
Applications for Visa C can be submitted through a visa application centre or the nearest Bulgarian consulate in your country of residence.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Uniform (Schengen) Visa
Starting March 31, 2024, Bulgaria issues uniform Schengen visas. This means a Bulgarian Schengen visa allows you to travel within the entire Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, regardless of internal land border checks. The 90-day period starts from the day you first enter the Schengen Area, including Bulgaria.
3. Long-Stay Visa (Type D)
Visa D, or the Long-Stay Visa, is required for individuals intending to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days. This visa is typically needed for purposes such as work, study, or family reunification. It allows holders to reside in Bulgaria for 6 or 12 months and serves as the first step toward obtaining permanent residency.
Application Procedure
The application process for Visa D is usually more detailed and may involve a personal interview.
Requirements and Conditions for Applying for a Bulgarian Visa
After reading the previous information and determining the type of visa you need, here is general information about the terms and conditions required to apply for a Bulgarian visa.
General Requirements
1. A completed and signed visa application form.
2. Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure from Bulgaria and have at least two blank pages.
3. A passport-sized photo with a white background that meets the specified requirements.
4. A valid insurance policy and a copy thereof issued by an insurance company licensed to operate on the territory of the European
Union with a minimum amount of coverage of €30,000. The policy should cover repatriation costs as well as emergency medical
aid and treatment costs for each of the transit journeys.
5. Bank statements for the last three months or other documents proving your ability to finance your visit.
6. Proof of a round-trip ticket reservation or a complete travel itinerary.
7. Proof of hotel bookings or an invitation letter if staying with family or friends.
8. For business visas, include an invitation letter from a business partner or company in Bulgaria. For study or work visas, provide
relevant documents (e.g., a university acceptance letter or a work contract).
Additional Conditions
1. Transit Visa (Visa A): Applicants must provide a visa for the final destination country, travel tickets, and other documents proving the purpose of transit.
2. Short-Stay Visa (Visa C): Applicants need to clearly explain the purpose of their visit, such as tourism, business, or family visits.
3. Long-Stay Visa (Visa D): Additional documents are required, such as a work permit, university enrollment proof, or family reunification documents.
IMPORTANT NOTES :
- Ensure all original documents are accompanied by copies.
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Documents in languages other than English or Bulgarian may need official translation.
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Check for the latest policies regarding Bulgarian visas, especially concerning Schengen integration.
Application Process for a Bulgarian Visa
1. Choose the Visa Type
First, determine the type of visa you need based on the purpose of your visit, as explained in the information provided earlier.
2. Gather Required Documents
After reviewing the general document requirements, you may need additional documents depending on your specific visa type. You can check out this for more details.
3. Submit the Application
You can apply for a Bulgarian visa through:
- Visa Application Centers
These centers handle visa applications for many countries, including Bulgaria.
- Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate
If there is no visa center nearby, you can apply directly through the embassy or consulate in your country.
Make sure to double check the specific application process for your country, as some countries may have different procedures or require online appointments.
4. Pay the Visa Fee
The visa application fee varies depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality. Fees can usually be paid at the time of application submission, either in cash or by credit card.
5. Attend the Visa Interview (if required)
For certain types of visas, particularly long-term visas (e.g., for work or study), you may need to attend an interview at the consulate. They may ask about the purpose of your trip and your financial situation.
6. Wait for Processing
Visa processing typically takes 10-15 business days, but may take longer for long-stay visas or special cases. It's best to apply at least three months in advance.
7. Receive Your Visa
Once your visa is approved, you'll be notified to collect your passport with the visa sticker. Please carefully verify all information on the visa before your trip.
8. Travel to Bulgaria
With your visa in hand, you can now travel to Bulgaria. Upon arrival, make sure to follow any immigration procedures or regulations at the border.
Things You Need To Know Before Going To Bulgaria
Varna Cathedral, Bulgaria. Source:
Before going to Bulgaria, it is worth equipping yourself with a few insider things. Knowing some of the local norms and ways you have to travel, you can easily make a trip smoother and more pleasant. Let's explore some key tips to maximize your experience in this beautiful country.
1. Pack the Right Power Adapter
Keep your trip fun and memorable with charged devices. Remember to bring a travel adapter, as Bulgaria primarily uses two-pin Type F power outlets.
2. Bargaining is Rude
Please note that bargaining is not common practice in Bulgaria. So, respect local customs, leave your bargaining skills for another place, and enjoy your shopping experience.
3. Prepare Bulgarian Lev for Your Trip
While some hotels may accept EUR or USD, it’s best to use the local currency, which is BGN (Bulgarian Lev), during your stay.
Bulgarian Lev. Source:
4. Pay in Cash
Using a bank card for payments is widely accepted, but certain small shops and local markets might only take cash. Naturally, you’ll receive a receipt for your purchase, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you to avoid any inconvenience.
5. Beware of Fake Taxis
Some unlicensed taxi drivers tend to overcharge passengers, so it’s best to avoid hailing a random taxi at the airport to steer clear of potential scams.
6. There are Many Free Wi-Fi Hotspots
If you’re out of mobile data, simply switch on your phone’s Wi-Fi and search for a free connection—most cities have plenty of hotspots, especially in parks, city centers, and some cafes.
7. People Nod for “No” and Shake Their Head for “Yes”
The most confusing part is that some Bulgarian people do the exact opposite. So if someone is shaking their head to express their answer to a question – you better ask “Was it a yes or a no?”.
8. Learn Basic Bulgarian Language
Learning a few basic Bulgarian phrases is highly recommended before your trip—many signs and store names are written in Bulgarian, which can make navigation tricky. Fortunately, most younger locals speak English, so don’t hesitate to ask for directions if you’re unsure.
Cyrillic Bulgarian street sign. Source :
9. Do NOT Smoking in Closed Areas
It is forbidden to smoke in closed areas like restaurants, pubs, etc. in Bulgaria.
10. Carry Your ID at All Times
To comply with local regulations, always carry a valid ID or passport. While random police checks are infrequent, it's important to be prepared.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Bulgarian visa involves understanding the type of visa you need—short-term (Visa C) for visits like tourism or business, or long-term (Visa D) for purposes such as work or study. It's essential to gather the required documents, follow the proper application process, and allow sufficient time for processing. For short stays, Bulgaria's adoption of the Schengen Visa system from March 2024 simplifies travel to other Schengen countries. Always consult the official Bulgarian embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information to ensure a smooth application process.
Disclaimer
The information provided about Bulgarian visas is intended for general guidance only and may not reflect the most recent changes in visa policies or requirements. Visa rules and application procedures can vary based on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the issuing authority’s discretion. It is highly recommended to verify all details through the official website of the Bulgarian embassy or consulate in your country or consult directly with an authorized visa application center. This document does not guarantee visa approval, as decisions rest solely with the Bulgarian immigration authorities.
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