Bulgaria Visa Policy

The visa policy of Bulgaria is the set of rules and regulations that outline if a foreign national requires a visa or travel authorization to enter the EU country.

Several factors affect which documentation a traveler requires to visit Bulgaria, including the individual’s citizenship, the length of time they plan to spend in the country, and the purpose of their trip.

In accordance with Bulgaria’s visa policy, nationals of many countries must obtain a national visa by applying at an embassy or consulate prior to making the journey.

Different types of visa are required depending on whether the foreign traveler is coming to Bulgaria for a short-term visit or whether they intend to stay and live in the country in the long run.

Bulgarian immigration policy dictates that foreign nationals must hold a Bulgaria D Visa (long-stay), a residence permit, and a work permit to live and accept employment in the country.

Citizens of a number of countries enjoy visa exemption for Bulgaria under the terms of the country’s current visa policy and can enter using only their passports.

At present, Bulgaria has no electronic visa (eVisa) or electronic travel authorization (eTA) system in place. However, this may change in the future.

As a member of the European Union (EU), Bulgaria is obliged to join the Schengen Area and announced its intention to do so.

When it becomes part of the open borders region, Bulgarian visa policy will change to be in line with the rest of the Schengen zone, including accepting Schengen Visas for entry and implementing the upcoming ETIAS system.

You can find a comprehensive guide to Bulgaria’s policy for visas, immigration, and travel to the country from abroad.