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Bulgaria Visa Application Guide

Bulgaria is one of the oldest countries in Europe and consists of a lot of attractions for tourists. An individual can conveniently plan and visit the country but must possess a visa. In this article, we will talk about the steps involved in applying for a Bulgarian visa.

Bulgarian Visa

A Bulgarian visa is mainly used when traveling into the borders of Bulgaria. If you are considering traveling to Bulgaria for whatever reason, you need to apply and get approved for a visa.

Who Needs A Bulgaria Visa?

A Bulgarian visa is necessary for an individual considering traveling to Bulgaria for diverse reasons. But among these, nationals of Schengen member countries, the USA, Canada, and Australia, are exempted from needing a visa to enter Bulgaria.

One must apply and get approved for a Bulgarian visa from the embassy or consulate in their country. Only children under six are exempted from possessing a visa when entering one country.

What Are The Types of Bulgarian Visa?

Bulgarian visas usually come in different types, which an individual can apply for when looking to visit the country. These visa types include;

Airport Transit Visa (Type A)

An airport transit visa is issued to an individual who intends to transit or change airline in a Bulgarian airport. Usually, one is expected to have obtained this visa before deciding to transit.

Schengen Visa (Type C)

A Schengen visa is a Bulgarian visa specifically designed for short stays in the country. One is expected to spend only 90 days (three months) while in the country for purposes including;

Tourism

An individual may decide to visit the borders of Bulgaria for relaxation, explore various sights, and experience their cultural heritage.

Study

An individual looking to take up short-term studies in the country can apply and get a Schengen visa type.

Business

There’s a Schengen visa type, which is specific for individuals who intend to visit for meetings and various other engagements.

Long Stay Visa (Type D)

If you want to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days (three months), you can obtain a long-stay visa. Below are some of the activities with which this visa covers which include;

● Long term employment

● Family reunification

● Long term study

● Retiring

● Volunteering

Bulgarian Visa Requirements

There are certain things that an individual who wants to apply for a Bulgarian visa must provide. Some of these requirements include;

Bulgarian Visa Application Form

A Bulgarian visa application form is the main requirement for the process. One needs to fill out the form carefully and sign it at the correct place before submitting it.

Valid Passport

A valid passport is essential for every applicant looking to get approval for a visa. One must ensure the passport is valid for at least three to six months.

Recent Passport-size Photograph

A recent passport-size photograph must accompany the other requirements for the visa. You must determine the exact and acceptable passport-size photograph.

Schengen Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is required for every individual who wants to travel to Bulgaria. The insurance’s coverage must be able to cover expenses reaching €30,000.

Travel Itinerary

Usually, the embassy or consulate needs details of your flight arrangement. A travel itinerary contains this information, and you must submit it for verification.

Purpose of Travel

Having a purpose for traveling is vital for every intending visa applicant. Approval is hugely based on one’s reason for wanting to travel, and you must have a genuine one to be considered.

Proof of Accommodation

Accommodation plays a vital role when it comes to applying for a visa. The officer in charge of your visa application wants to ensure you have a place to stay once you land.

Financial Proof

The expenses involved in traveling to another country are enormous, and one must have enough money. If you are approved for a visa to travel, you need to provide proof that you are financially able to handle your needs.

Bulgarian Visa Application Guide

Application for a Bulgarian visa usually involves some steps that one must follow judiciously. Below are the steps to apply for a visa to Bulgaria.

Decide on your visa type

As an individual interested in traveling to Bulgaria, you must decide on your visa type. Why do you want to travel, and how long are you looking to stay? You need to choose.

Gather the required documents

After determining the visa type, you must gather the required documents. You must legalize these documents using an apostille stamp.

Complete and download the application form

Once you have gathered the requirements, you must download and complete the application form. Ensure you provide the correct answers to the questions and check before submitting.

Book an appointment

An individual must get to the embassy or consulate and book an appointment. You need to book an appointment fast to avoid affecting your travel plans.

Attend the scheduled appointment

On the appointment date, you need to get to the embassy or consulate. There, you must submit all your documents and be prepared to answer some questions concerning your interest in traveling to Bulgaria.

Pay the visa fee

After completing the entire steps provided above, you need to pay the visa fee. At the embassy or consulate, you can obtain information about the visa fee and how to make payment.

A Bulgarian visa is relatively easy to get if you follow their guidelines. You need to provide all the required documents for the visa application. Also, it’s beneficial that you apply on time to avoid delays. We hope this article gives you enough information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are some frequently asked questions about the Bulgarian visa application guide.

Where can I apply for a Bulgarian Schengen visa?

An individual can apply for a Bulgarian Schengen visa at the embassy or consulate. Alternatively, one can apply at a visa application center or through a Schengen diplomatic mission.