Bulgaria, a land of diverse cultures and stunning tourist destinations, offers attractions like the Boyana Church and Vrana Palace in Sofia, the Philippopolis theatre and the Ancient Stadium in Plovdiv, and much more. With a Bulgaria tourist visa, you can explore this beautiful country to your heart’s content. This definitive guide will walk you through the Bulgaria tourist visa application process.

What is a Bulgaria Tourist Visa?

A Bulgaria tourist visa is a type of visa designed for travelers who wish to visit Bulgaria for tourism purposes. It allows you to stay in Bulgaria for up to 90 days. However, it’s important to note that this visa does not permit multiple entries; you can visit Bulgaria once during its validity period. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to travel to neighboring European countries.

How to Apply for a Bulgaria Tourist Visa?

To obtain a tourist visa, you need to follow these steps:

1. Online Application: Start by filling out the Bulgarian tourist visa application form on the official Indian government website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in.

2. Complete Application: Provide all the required details and attach a recent photograph.

3. Form and Receipt: After completing the application, print out the form and the payment receipt.

4. Submission: Mail the application form along with the necessary documents to the Bulgarian embassy.

Ensure that you submit genuine and original documents, as providing false information can lead to visa refusal, affecting your future visa applications.

Eligibility

Before applying for a tourist visa, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria:

1. Proof of Purpose of Visit: If you’re visiting acquaintances in Bulgaria, you must have an invitation letter from a resident in Bulgaria.

2. Tourism Only: Your visit should be solely for tourism or visiting acquaintances, without any intention of seeking or taking up employment.

3. Health Requirements: You should be in good health to travel to Bulgaria. A medical test may be required before your journey, and you must provide relevant documentary proof.

4. Age Limit: You must meet the age limit to apply for a work permit.

5. Character Requirements: Maintain a good character and have genuine intentions for your visit. You may need to provide a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) as proof.

6. Sufficient Funds: You must possess or have access to sufficient funds to cover your stay and expenses in Bulgaria. Bank statements or equivalent documents must be submitted as proof.

Documents Required for Bulgaria Tourist Visa

Ensure you have the following documents for your Bulgaria tourist visa application:

• Original passport with a validity of at least six months from the date of travel.
• Completed visa application form with your signature.
• Two colored photographs adhering to the specified photo specifications.
• A detailed cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit.
• Confirmed return and onward flight tickets.
• Proof of accommodation, such as an invitation letter or hotel reservation.
• Visa fee in cash, payable in Bulgarian Leva only.
• Proof of income tax returns.
• Proof of identification, including PAN card and Aadhar card.

Photo Specification

Your visa photos must meet specific criteria:

• Provide two copies of the photo.
• Photo size: 35 mm x 45 mm.
• Submit colored copies.
• Ensure the head is about 30 mm within the photo frame.
• Center the head properly.
• The photo should not be older than 6 months.
• Use a white background.
• Maintain a neutral facial expression.
• Glasses are not permitted.
• Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons.
• Avoid clothing that matches the background.

Processing Time for Bulgaria Tourist Visa

The processing time for your visa application depends on several factors, including the type of visa, number of entries, embassy workload, biometric requirements, and more. Generally, tourist visa applications are processed within 8 to 10 business days. However, processing times may vary based on the aforementioned factors.

Bulgaria Visa Fees

Visa fees for Bulgaria vary based on several aspects, including service charges, biometric charges, processing fees, and urgency. Fees may differ if you apply for an urgent visa. Here is the fee for normal processing:

• Multiple Entry Normal Tourist Visa: 1-month stay, 3 months validity, Fee – 7200.0

After Submission

Once you’ve submitted your visa application, consider the following:

• If there are additional requirements or any errors in the application, inform the embassy or agency promptly.
• Inform the embassy/agency of any changes related to your application, such as a change in marital status or the birth of a child.
• Keep track of your application’s status during processing.
• If your plans change, you can withdraw your application. However, note that the visa fee is generally not refundable.

How to Check Visa Status?

You can check your visa status online by visiting the website of the visa agency through which you applied or the visa application center’s website. Alternatively, you can inquire about your status offline by calling the embassy and providing your visa application number.

When You Have the Visa

After successfully obtaining your visa, follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth visit to Bulgaria:

Before You Travel:

• Note the visa’s expiry date and the number of entries permitted. Do not overstay your visa; abide by the validity period.
• Travel to Bulgaria within the validity of your visa.
• Carry a copy of your passport and other essential travel documents.
• Obtain health insurance and travel insurance from a certified provider.

At the Border:

• Have your documents checked and passport verified.
• Obtain the entry stamp on your passport.
• Seek assistance from airport authorities if needed.
• Review your visa copy for any additional guidelines and rules.

Upon Entry to Bulgaria:

• Do not engage in employment; volunteer work may be allowed.
• Avoid prohibited tourist areas.
• Ensure you do not overstay your visa and apply for a visa extension if needed.