Bulgaria Tourist Visa
A Bulgaria Tourist Visa is a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C), issued by the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) for leisure travel, sightseeing, and cultural visits. Since Bulgaria fully joined the Schengen area, with air, land, and sea border checks lifted, a Bulgarian Type C visa entitles its holder to travel within the wider Schengen area for the period indicated, up to a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.
This visa is intended for travellers whose sole purpose is tourism and who do not intend to work, study, or take up residence in Bulgaria. Nationals of countries not exempt from the Schengen visa requirement must apply before travelling, submitting their application at a Bulgarian diplomatic mission, an authorised VFS Global visa centre, or the mission of another Schengen state where applicable, depending on which country is the applicant’s main destination.
The application should be lodged no earlier than six months before the intended travel date and no later than 15 days before departure. Approval is determined solely by the Bulgarian consular authorities, and holding a visa does not automatically guarantee entry — border officials retain discretion to request supporting documents, including proof of travel medical insurance, on arrival.
Eligibility
- Applicant must intend to travel to Bulgaria (or the wider Schengen area, with Bulgaria as the main destination) strictly for tourism or leisure.
- Applicant must hold a valid travel document, issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- Applicant must provide proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.
- Applicant must hold travel medical insurance covering the Schengen area, with minimum coverage as prescribed by the MFA.
- Applicant must demonstrate intent to leave Bulgaria/the Schengen area before the visa expires.
- Applicant must not fall under any category posing a security, public health, or public policy risk.
- Children under 6 are exempt from the visa fee; children aged 6–11 pay a reduced fee.
Government Visa Fees
| Fee Type | Government Fee (EUR) |
| Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) — Adult | EUR 90 (harmonised EU-wide fee, effective since 11 June 2024) |
| Children aged 6–11 | EUR 45 |
| Children under 6 | Free |
| VFS Global Service Fee (where applicable) | Confirmed at application |
Certain categories, such as family members of Bulgarian and EU citizens, are exempt from the visa fee. The application fee is non-refundable even if the visa is refused. Information may vary depending on the visa category and individual circumstances. Exchange rates fluctuate daily, so confirm the current INR equivalent before payment.
Processing Time
As a Schengen short-stay visa, a Bulgaria Tourist Visa application is generally decided within 15 calendar days of submission, under the standard timeframe applicable to Schengen visa applications. In individual cases, this period may be extended up to 30 days, and in exceptional circumstances requiring further scrutiny, up to a maximum of 60 days.
Processing can be affected by the completeness of the submitted documents, the specific consulate or VFS centre handling the application, and seasonal demand during peak travel periods. Applicants are advised to apply well within the permitted six-month to 15-day window before travel, keeping in mind that a longer buffer reduces the risk of delays affecting travel plans. Once a decision is made, the passport is returned via the same application centre or mission. Information may vary depending on the visa category and individual circumstances.
Required Documents Checklist
Step-by-Step Application Process
Important Notes
Why Choose Shivansh Consultants
Applying for a Bulgaria Tourist Visa involves precise Schengen documentation requirements, from travel insurance coverage to financial proof, and small gaps can lead to delays or refusal. Shivansh Consultants offers Documentation Support, a clear Eligibility Assessment, and thorough Application Review before you submit.
We provide Personalized Guidance tailored to your travel plans, backed by a Transparent Process and End-to-End Assistance from form completion through to submission at the visa centre. We do not guarantee visa approval, as this decision rests entirely with the Bulgarian consular authorities.