Visa requirements

Bulgaria

General visa requirements for travelling to Bulgaria. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Tourist visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Tourist)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 15 calendar days (may extend to 30 or 45 days in exceptional cases)
Fee: EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-11), free (children under 6)
Validity: 90 days in any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Standard Schengen short-stay visa for tourism. Required for nationals of Annex I countries. Processing may extend to 30 or 45 days in exceptional cases. Children aged 6-11 pay EUR 45. Children under 6 are exempt. Application submitted no earlier than 3 months before intended travel. Bulgaria issues uniform Schengen visas valid throughout the Schengen area since March 31, 2024.

Eligibility

Nationality
Nationals of countries listed in Annex I of EU Regulation 2018/1806 must obtain a Schengen visa before travel
Financial
Must demonstrate minimum EUR 50 per day of stay, with a minimum of EUR 500 total

Minimum funds: EUR 500

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, color, light background, face covering 70-80% of photo, taken within last 6 months
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, credit card statements, traveler's cheques, cash declaration; Minimum amount: EUR 50 per day, minimum EUR 500 total
Travel insurance
Coverage area: All EU/Schengen member states; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hotel booking confirmation, rental agreement, or invitation letter from host; Must cover full stay: Yes
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen Visa Application Form; Form url: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/are/en/bgr/
Travel itinerary
Provide an itinerary showing travel dates, destinations and planned accommodation.

Must include addresses: Yes; Must include dates: Yes
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

Online application
Fill in the standard Schengen visa application form online or in paper format
Document gathering
Collect passport, photos, travel insurance, proof of funds, accommodation proof, flight reservation, and travel itinerary
Fee payment
Pay EUR 90 visa fee (EUR 45 for children 6-11). Fee is non-refundable even if visa is refused.
Appointment booking
Schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global visa application center or Bulgarian consulate. Applications accepted no earlier than 3 months before travel.
Document submission
Attend appointment and submit all documents. Applications submitted through VFS Global offices or directly at Bulgarian consular offices.
Biometrics
Fingerprints and digital photograph taken at the visa application center if not already in the VIS system (valid for 59 months)
Processing wait
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days. May be extended to 30 or 45 days in exceptional cases.
Visa collection
Collect passport with visa sticker from VFS Global center or consulate, or receive by courier if arranged

Work / Immigration visa (Long-Stay Visa (Type D) - EU Blue Card)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 35 business days
Fee: EUR 100 (6-month visa) or EUR 200 (12-month visa)
Validity: Up to 4 years
Entry: Multiple entry

EU Blue Card for highly skilled workers. Valid for up to 4 years. Requires higher education qualifications or equivalent professional experience. No labor market test required for Blue Card applications in Bulgaria. Minimum gross salary of BGN 2,400 per month required. Foreign degrees must be formally recognized by NACID (National Centre for Information and Documentation).

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals with higher education qualifications or equivalent professional experience
Employment
Must have an employment contract or binding job offer from a Bulgarian employer for at least 6 months with a minimum gross salary of BGN 2,400 per month. No labor market test required.

Required status: Employment contract with minimum BGN 2,400 monthly salary
Financial
Minimum gross salary of BGN 2,400 per month (Blue Card salary threshold)

Minimum funds: BGN 2,400 per month
Criminal record
Must provide criminal record certificate

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, color, light background, face covering 70-80% of photo, taken within last 6 months
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Rental agreement or employer-provided housing confirmation; Must cover full stay: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-Stay Visa Application Form (Type D); Form url: https://www.mfa.bg/upload/99380/2_Visa_D.pdf
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 100 (6-month) or EUR 200 (12-month)
Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.

Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes
Good conduct certificate
Issuing authority: Issuing authority; Validity months: 6
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes
Private health insurance
Coverage territory: European Union member states; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000

How to apply

Document gathering
Secure employment contract or binding offer from a Bulgarian employer for at least 6 months. Have foreign diploma recognized by NACID (National Centre for Information and Documentation).
Fee payment
Pay EUR 100 for 6-month visa or EUR 200 for 12-month visa
Appointment booking
Schedule in-person appointment at the Bulgarian diplomatic mission
Document submission
Submit all documents in person. Personal interview is mandatory.
Processing wait
Processing takes up to 35 business days for the Type D visa
Visa collection
Collect passport with long-stay visa. After arrival in Bulgaria, apply for EU Blue Card residence permit.

Business visa (Visa-Free Short Stay - Business (Annex II Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 90 days
Fee: Free
Validity: 90 days in any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Nationals of Annex II countries can enter Bulgaria visa-free for business purposes (meetings, conferences, trade fairs) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. No work activities permitted under this category.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a passport from an EU Regulation 2018/1806 Annex II listed country
Purpose of visit
Business activities limited to meetings, conferences, trade fairs, and negotiations. No employment permitted.
Includes
- Meetings
- conferences
- trade fairs
- negotiations

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic and Service Passport Holders - Visa Exempt)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 90 days
Fee: Free
Validity: 90 days in any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Holders of diplomatic and service passports from countries with bilateral agreements with Bulgaria are exempt from visa requirements for short stays. Fee exemptions apply for holders of diplomatic/service passports. The specific list of countries with bilateral visa exemption agreements for diplomatic passports varies; applicants should check with the Bulgarian MFA.

Eligibility

Nationality
Holders of valid diplomatic or service/official passports from countries with bilateral visa exemption agreements with Bulgaria
Purpose of visit
Must be traveling on official diplomatic or governmental business
Includes
- Diplomatic/governmental business

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

Medical visa (Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Medical Treatment)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 15 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90
Validity: 90 days in any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Short-stay Schengen visa for medical treatment of less than 90 days in Bulgaria. For Annex I nationals seeking medical care in Bulgarian healthcare facilities.

Eligibility

Nationality
Nationals of Annex I countries seeking medical treatment in Bulgaria for up to 90 days
Purpose of visit
Must have confirmed medical appointment or treatment plan at a Bulgarian healthcare facility
Includes
- Medical treatment

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, color, light background, face covering 70-80% of photo
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, insurance coverage documentation, financial guarantees; Minimum amount: Sufficient to cover medical treatment, accommodation, and living expenses
Travel insurance
Coverage area: All EU/Schengen member states; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hotel booking or hospital accommodation confirmation; Must cover full stay: Yes
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Invitation letter
Host requirements: Letter from Bulgarian healthcare institution confirming appointment/treatment with dates and estimated duration
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen Visa Application Form; Form url: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/are/en/bgr/
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

Document gathering
Receive confirmation letter from Bulgarian healthcare institution
Fee payment
Pay EUR 90 visa fee
Appointment booking
Schedule appointment at nearest VFS Global center or Bulgarian consulate
Document submission
Attend appointment and submit all documents with biometrics
Processing wait
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days
Visa collection
Collect passport with Schengen visa sticker

Tourist visa (EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens - Freedom of Movement)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Fee: Free
Entry: Single entry

EU/EEA and Swiss nationals enjoy freedom of movement and can live, work and study in Bulgaria without a visa. Must register with local authorities if staying longer than 3 months.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a national of an EU/EEA member state or Switzerland

Tourist visa (Visa-Free Short Stay (Schengen Annex II Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 90 days
Fee: Free
Validity: 90 days in any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Nationals of Annex II countries can enter Bulgaria visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism, business visits, or transit. Bulgaria fully joined the Schengen Area on January 1, 2025. Days spent in Bulgaria count toward the 90-day Schengen allowance.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a passport from an EU Regulation 2018/1806 Annex II listed country or territory

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

Work / Immigration visa (Long-Stay Visa (Type D) - Work / Single Residence and Work Permit)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 10-30 days (work permit) + 35 business days (Type D visa)
Fee: EUR 100 (6-month visa) or EUR 200 (12-month visa)
Validity: Up to 3 years (work permit validity)
Entry: Multiple entry

Long-stay visa (Type D) for employment in Bulgaria. Requires prior approval of a Single Residence and Work Permit by the Migration Directorate, which the employer must apply for. Employer must pass a labor market test through the Bulgarian Employment Agency. Work permit valid for up to 3 years. Processing of work permit takes 10-30 days, then Type D visa processing takes up to 35 business days. Worker has 20 days after work permit approval to file for Type D visa.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals with a valid employment contract from a Bulgarian employer
Employment
Must have an approved Single Residence and Work Permit from the Bulgarian Migration Directorate. Employer must pass labor market test through Bulgarian Employment Agency.

Required status: Approved work permit
Criminal record
Must provide criminal record certificate from home country or country of recent residence

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, color, light background, face covering 70-80% of photo, taken within last 6 months
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Rental agreement or employer-provided housing confirmation; Must cover full stay: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-Stay Visa Application Form (Type D); Form url: https://www.mfa.bg/upload/99380/2_Visa_D.pdf
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 100 (6-month) or EUR 200 (12-month)
Good conduct certificate
Issuing authority: Issuing authority; Validity months: 6
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes
Private health insurance
Coverage territory: European Union member states, minimum 3 months coverage or until residence card is issued; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000

How to apply

Document gathering
Bulgarian employer files application for Single Residence and Work Permit with the Migration Directorate, including labor market test from Bulgarian Employment Agency. Takes 10-30 days.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 100 for 6-month visa or EUR 200 for 12-month visa
Appointment booking
Schedule in-person appointment within 20 days of work permit approval at the Bulgarian diplomatic mission in applicant's country of residence
Document submission
Submit all documents in person. Personal interview is mandatory.
Processing wait
Type D visa processing takes up to 35 business days, up to 60 days in complex cases
Visa collection
Collect passport with long-stay visa sticker

Transit visa (Visa-Free Transit (Annex II Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 90 days
Fee: Free
Validity: 90 days in any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Nationals of Annex II countries can transit through Bulgaria without a visa as part of their 90-day visa-free allowance within the Schengen area.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a passport from an EU Regulation 2018/1806 Annex II listed country

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

Student visa (Long-Stay Visa (Type D) - Student)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 35 business days (may take up to 6 months in specific cases)
Fee: EUR 100 (6-month visa) or EUR 200 (12-month visa)
Validity: 6 or 12 months
Entry: Multiple entry

Long-stay visa (Type D) for full-time students enrolled at accredited Bulgarian universities. Issued for 6 or 12 months with multiple entries. Not granted for language courses. Processing may take up to 6 months in specific cases. Must apply at the Bulgarian diplomatic mission in the applicant's country of permanent residence. Personal interview is mandatory. After arrival, applicants must apply for a residence permit.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA nationals who have been admitted as full-time students at an accredited Bulgarian university
Purpose of visit
Must be enrolled as a full-time student in an accredited Bulgarian higher education institution. Language courses do not qualify.
Includes
- Full-time study at accredited university
Financial
Must demonstrate access to at least BGN 4,000 per academic year plus tuition fee coverage

Minimum funds: BGN 4,000
Health
Must have valid health insurance with minimum EUR 30,000 coverage valid in EU member states

Required vaccinations: None

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, color, light background, face covering 70-80% of photo, taken within last 6 months
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements showing at least 6 months of minimum monthly salaries; Minimum amount: BGN 4,000 per academic year (approximately EUR 2,045) plus tuition fees
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: University dormitory confirmation, rental agreement, or invitation from host; Must cover full stay: Yes
Admission letter
Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-Stay Visa Application Form (Type D); Form url: https://www.mfa.bg/upload/99380/2_Visa_D.pdf
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 100 (6-month) or EUR 200 (12-month)
Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.

Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes
Good conduct certificate
Issuing authority: Issuing authority; Validity months: 6
Private health insurance
Coverage territory: European Union member states; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000

How to apply

Document gathering
Receive acceptance letter from an accredited Bulgarian university confirming full-time enrollment
Fee payment
Pay EUR 100 for 6-month visa or EUR 200 for 12-month visa
Appointment booking
Schedule in-person appointment at the Bulgarian diplomatic mission in the applicant's country of permanent residence
Document submission
Submit all documents in person. Personal interview is mandatory and no exceptions are made.
Processing wait
Standard processing takes up to 35 business days. May take up to 6 months in specific cases.
Visa collection
Collect passport with long-stay visa sticker from the embassy or consulate

Journalist visa (Long-Stay Visa (Type D) - Journalist / Press Accreditation)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 35 business days
Fee: EUR 100 (6-month visa) or EUR 200 (12-month visa)
Validity: 6 or 12 months
Entry: Multiple entry

Long-stay visa for foreign press members accredited in the Republic of Bulgaria for stays exceeding 90 days. For short-term press visits (under 90 days), a Type C Schengen visa with business/journalist purpose is used instead.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA nationals who are foreign press members to be accredited in Bulgaria
Purpose of visit
Must be a press member of a foreign country seeking accreditation in Bulgaria for stays over 90 days
Includes
- Press/journalism activities

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, color, light background, face covering 70-80% of photo, taken within last 6 months
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, employer sponsorship letter, media organization financial guarantee; Minimum amount: Sufficient for duration of stay
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Rental agreement, hotel booking, or media organization housing arrangement; Must cover full stay: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-Stay Visa Application Form (Type D); Form url: https://www.mfa.bg/upload/99380/2_Visa_D.pdf
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 100 (6-month) or EUR 200 (12-month)
Private health insurance
Coverage territory: European Union member states; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000
Press credentials
Provide a press card, assignment letter or accreditation from the media organisation you represent.

How to apply

Document gathering
Secure press credentials and accreditation documentation from media organization and Bulgarian authorities
Fee payment
Pay EUR 100 for 6-month visa or EUR 200 for 12-month visa
Appointment booking
Schedule in-person appointment at Bulgarian diplomatic mission
Document submission
Submit all documents in person. Personal interview is mandatory.
Processing wait
Processing takes up to 35 business days
Visa collection
Collect passport with long-stay visa sticker

Medical visa (Long-Stay Visa (Type D) - Medical Treatment)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 35 business days
Fee: EUR 100 (6-month visa) or EUR 200 (12-month visa)
Validity: 6 or 12 months
Entry: Multiple entry

Long-stay visa for persons hospitalized in a Bulgarian healthcare institution for long-term treatment (over 90 days). Applicant must demonstrate financial capability to fund treatment and living expenses. Issued for 6 or 12 months with multiple entries.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA nationals requiring long-term medical treatment in Bulgaria
Purpose of visit
Must be hospitalized in a Bulgarian healthcare institution for long-term treatment exceeding 90 days
Includes
- Long-term medical treatment
Financial
Must demonstrate financial capability to fund all treatment, transportation, and living expenses

Minimum funds: Coverage for all expenses

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, color, light background, face covering 70-80% of photo, taken within last 6 months
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, financial guarantees, insurance coverage documentation; Minimum amount: Sufficient to cover all medical, transportation, and living expenses
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hospital admission confirmation or rental agreement for recovery period; Must cover full stay: Yes
Invitation letter
Host requirements: Official letter from a Bulgarian healthcare institution confirming admission for treatment, including diagnosis, treatment plan, and expected duration
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-Stay Visa Application Form (Type D); Form url: https://www.mfa.bg/upload/99380/2_Visa_D.pdf
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 100 (6-month) or EUR 200 (12-month)
Private health insurance
Coverage territory: European Union member states; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000

How to apply

Document gathering
Receive official acceptance from a Bulgarian healthcare institution with diagnosis, treatment plan, and expected duration
Fee payment
Pay EUR 100 for 6-month visa or EUR 200 for 12-month visa
Appointment booking
Schedule in-person appointment at the Bulgarian diplomatic mission
Document submission
Submit all documents in person. Personal interview is mandatory.
Processing wait
Processing takes up to 35 business days
Visa collection
Collect passport with long-stay visa sticker

Transit visa (Schengen Short-Stay Transit Visa (Type C))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 5 days
Processing time: 15 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-11), free (children under 6)
Validity: 90 days in any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Short-stay visa for land or sea transit through Bulgaria to a third country. For Annex I nationals who are not on the airport transit visa list but need to pass through Bulgarian territory. Allows entry into Bulgarian territory for transit purposes.

Eligibility

Nationality
Nationals of Annex I countries transiting through Bulgarian territory by land or sea

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, color, light background, face covering 70-80% of photo
Travel insurance
Coverage area: All EU/Schengen member states; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen Visa Application Form; Form url: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/are/en/bgr/
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

Online application
Fill in the Schengen visa application form specifying transit purpose
Document gathering
Collect passport, photos, travel insurance, confirmed travel tickets, and valid visa for destination country
Fee payment
Pay EUR 90 visa fee
Appointment booking
Schedule appointment at VFS Global or Bulgarian consulate
Document submission
Attend appointment and submit documents
Processing wait
Processing takes approximately 15 calendar days
Visa collection
Collect passport with visa sticker

Business visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Business)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 15 calendar days (may extend to 30-45 days)
Fee: EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-11), free (children under 6)
Validity: 90 days in any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Short-stay Schengen visa for business purposes including meetings, conferences, and trade activities. The invitation letter from a Bulgarian company must be notarized. Processing may extend to 30 or 45 days in exceptional cases.

Eligibility

Nationality
Nationals of countries listed in Annex I of EU Regulation 2018/1806
Purpose of visit
Must demonstrate legitimate business purpose such as meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or negotiations with a Bulgarian entity
Includes
- Meetings
- conferences
- trade fairs
- negotiations
Financial
Must demonstrate minimum EUR 50 per day of stay, with a minimum of EUR 500 total

Minimum funds: EUR 500

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, color, light background, face covering 70-80% of photo, taken within last 6 months
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, company sponsorship letter, credit card statements; Minimum amount: EUR 50 per day, minimum EUR 500 total
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: Yes; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
Travel insurance
Coverage area: All EU/Schengen member states; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hotel booking confirmation or invitation from Bulgarian company confirming accommodation; Must cover full stay: Yes
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Invitation letter
Host requirements: Original invitation-declaration from a Bulgarian company or legal person, signed, stamped, and notarized by a notary public
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen Visa Application Form; Form url: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/are/en/bgr/
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

Online application
Fill in the standard Schengen visa application form
Document gathering
Collect passport, photos, travel insurance, invitation letter from Bulgarian company (notarized original), proof of funds, accommodation proof, flight reservation, and employer letter
Fee payment
Pay EUR 90 visa fee. Fee is non-refundable.
Appointment booking
Schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global center or Bulgarian consulate
Document submission
Attend appointment and submit all documents at VFS Global or consulate
Biometrics
Fingerprints and digital photograph if not already in VIS system
Processing wait
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days, may extend to 30-45 days
Visa collection
Collect passport with visa sticker from VFS Global or consulate

Transit visa (Airport Transit Visa (Type A))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1 days
Processing time: 15 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-11), free (children under 6)
Validity: 90 days
Entry: Single entry

Airport transit visa for nationals of specific countries who need to pass through the international transit area of a Bulgarian airport. Cannot be granted at the border or on arrival. Valid for single, double, or multiple entries within 3 months. Only allows access to the transit zone, not entry into Bulgarian territory.

Eligibility

Nationality
Required for nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iraq, Iran, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, and Sri Lanka transiting through Bulgarian airports

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, color, light background, face covering 70-80% of photo
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen Visa Application Form (Transit); Form url: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/are/en/bgr/
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

Online application
Fill in the Schengen visa application form specifying airport transit purpose
Document gathering
Collect passport, photos, confirmed onward flight ticket, and valid visa for destination country if required
Fee payment
Pay EUR 90 visa fee
Document submission
Submit application in person at Bulgarian embassy or consulate before travel
Processing wait
Processing takes approximately 15 calendar days
Visa collection
Collect passport with transit visa sticker

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.